Which factor can cause structural members to pull away from walls?

The factor that causes structural members to pull away from walls is the excessive weight of building contents. When a building experiences loading that exceeds its designed capacity, particularly from heavy contents such as furniture, equipment, or stored materials, it can induce stress on the structural framework. This excessive weight can lead to deflections and warping in structural members, causing them to separate from walls or other support systems. This separation occurs because the connection points may not be able to withstand the increased loads, resulting in a compromised structural integrity.

In contrast, low humidity levels do not directly cause structural members to pull away from walls; rather, they can affect materials, causing them to shrink, but are less likely to lead to significant structural displacement. Consistent temperature control generally helps maintain the integrity of building materials and reduces issues related to expansion and contraction. Regular maintenance contributes to the longevity and structural stability of a building, preventing issues before they arise, but does not cause structural members to detach from walls.