What Is Rough-In Plumbing?

If you're getting work done on your home or buying a new one, you may have heard builders refer to rough-in plumbing. What does this mean, and what's the difference between rough-in, and finished plumbing? Learn more about the steps that separate these two types of plumbing.

Rough-in plumbing refers to the point in construction when the system has been roughed out but not yet finished. For instance, when the framing is done and you can see where things will go, with pipes and wiring already installed, but you haven't installed anything with an endpoint, such as an electrical outlet or fixture.

Essentially, the term means the bones of the project are complete, but it doesn't look pretty yet. The rough-in stage includes roofing, siding, and doors. The area will be protected because the piping and the HVAC and electrical have already been completed. While the walls don't have drywall, the structure is complete enough for the building inspector to check out your site.

Rough-in plumbing generally means completion of drain pipes and water supply. However, you won't have any toilets, sinks, or showers installed yet. The plumber will put covers on drains to stop debris from entering. Other things that may be done as part of rough-in plumbing include:

• Excavating underground pipes.
• Connecting drain lines to sewer systems.
• Venting stacks that go through the roof.

Rough-In vs. Finished Plumbing

Rough-in plumbing shows you where things will go, giving you a feel for the location and what the final product will look like. However, it should also offer some flexibility. The building inspector may request changes or you may run into an unanticipated problem that forces a change. Rolling with the ups and downs is part of the process. You can't move to the next step until you have addressed all the building inspector's concerns and received approval.

Finished systems require time and attention to detail, including things like:

• Finishing connecting and installing plumbing fixtures, such as toilets and sinks.
• Removing caps on water supply pipes and drains.
• Installing under-sink drain assemblies as well as water supply lines.
• Testing all new connections.

Contact Mr. Rooter Today

Do you need plumbing work performed at your home? Whether you're in the middle of the building process or if you've already completed a project, Mr. Rooter can assist you with whatever's next. Reach out today to set up an appointment.