{ "schema_version": "1.0", "id": "remodel-plumbing", "title": "Plumbing remodel hub: underground, rough-in and finish plumbing", "version": "1.2.1", "updated": "2026-09-09", "maintainer": "Mountain Man Plumbing", "summary": "Plan a bathroom, kitchen or basement plumbing remodel. Learn what underground, rough-in and finish work involve, explore the connected house, and prepare fixture selections, access and trade handoffs.", "scope": "Plan plumbing changes in an existing Salt Lake Valley home. Explore the pipes beneath the slab, inside the walls and at the finished fixtures, then see how each stage fits into a remodel.", "sources": [ { "id": "slc", "title": "Salt Lake City · permit questions", "url": "https://www.slc.gov/buildingservices/building-permits/faqs/", "scope": "Local permit guidance. Give the building department the project address and a description of the work.", "checked": "2026-09-09" }, { "id": "murray", "title": "Murray City · July 2026 code adoption", "url": "https://www.murray.utah.gov/167/Building-Division", "scope": "The notice lists the 2024 IPC and explains that the residential code remains 2021. Application dates and Utah amendments matter.", "checked": "2026-09-09" }, { "id": "plans", "title": "Salt Lake City · remodel plan submittal", "url": "https://www.slc.gov/buildingservices/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2023/07/ApplicantGuidePBI_07-23.pdf", "scope": "Program requirements for existing and proposed plans, a written description of the work and project eligibility.", "checked": "2026-09-09" }, { "id": "inspection", "title": "Springville · basement improvement inspections", "url": "https://www.springvilleutah.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2019/07/basement-pamphlet-hb.pdf", "scope": "A Utah example of under-floor, rough and final inspection stages. The project city sets its inspection sequence.", "checked": "2026-09-09" }, { "id": "drain", "title": "ICC · sanitary drainage", "url": "https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IPC2024V2.0/chapter-7-sanitary-drainage", "scope": "Drainage load, grade, cleanouts and lifting wastewater where gravity drainage is not possible. Use the adopted code and amendments.", "checked": "2026-09-09" }, { "id": "vent", "title": "ICC · why plumbing vents matter", "url": "https://www.iccsafe.org/building-safety-journal/bsj-technical/code-corner-2024-international-plumbing-code-chapter-9-vents/", "scope": "Air movement and pressure changes in drainage systems; vents protect the water seal in fixture traps.", "checked": "2026-09-09" }, { "id": "water", "title": "ICC · water supply and distribution", "url": "https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IPC2024V2.0/chapter-6-water-supply-and-distribution", "scope": "Water delivery, pressure, hot-water distribution and shutoff provisions.", "checked": "2026-09-09" }, { "id": "joist", "title": "Weyerhaeuser · common framing mistakes", "url": "https://www.weyerhaeuser.com/blog/immediate-answers-for-common-field-issues/", "scope": "Engineered joist holes and damaged flanges require the manufacturer’s limits and appropriate review.", "checked": "2026-09-09" }, { "id": "pump", "title": "Liberty Pumps · pump and vent questions", "url": "https://www.libertypumps.com/About/About-Us/FAQ-General", "scope": "Differences between sewage, drain and sump pumps; below-sewer bathrooms and basin venting.", "checked": "2026-09-09" }, { "id": "gas", "title": "ICC · fuel-gas piping", "url": "https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IFGC2024P1/chapter-4-gas-piping-installations", "scope": "Gas distribution, shutoff valves and sediment traps. This is a technical reference; the adopted local rules and appliance instructions govern the job.", "checked": "2026-09-09" }, { "id": "toilet", "title": "KOHLER · toilet installation guide", "url": "https://resources.kohler.com/webassets/kpna/catalog/pdf/en/1087602_2.pdf", "scope": "An equipment-specific example of rough-in and finished-wall measurements; other toilets have different requirements.", "checked": "2026-09-09" }, { "id": "valve", "title": "Moen · concealed valve installation guide", "url": "https://assets.moen.com/shared/docs/instruction-sheets/ins2016.pdf", "scope": "A manufacturer example of setting a concealed valve relative to the finished wall; use the exact selected valve’s instructions.", "checked": "2026-09-09" }, { "id": "efficiency", "title": "EPA WaterSense · product specifications", "url": "https://www.epa.gov/watersense/product-specifications", "scope": "WaterSense labels combine water-efficiency requirements with category-specific performance criteria.", "checked": "2026-09-09" }, { "id": "utah", "title": "Utah Legislature · statewide IPC amendments", "url": "https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title15A/Chapter3/C15A-3-P3_1800010118000101.pdf", "scope": "Utah-specific provisions, including water-heater seismic restraints and conditions for pan drainage. A pan and a floor drain are different receptors.", "checked": "2026-09-09" }, { "id": "fittings", "title": "Charlotte Pipe · sanitary drainage specifications", "url": "https://www.charlottepipe.com/uploads/documents/technical/Master_Specification_for_Sanitary_and_Storm_Systems.pdf", "scope": "Fitting selection for changes in drainage direction, including long sweeps and branch connections.", "checked": "2026-09-09" }, { "id": "trap", "title": "RectorSeal · floor-drain trap protection", "url": "https://rectorseal.com/sureseal-lp", "scope": "Manufacturer explanation of a barrier device used to protect the water seal in an infrequently used floor drain.", "checked": "2026-09-09" }, { "id": "vent-methods", "title": "ICC · fixture venting methods", "url": "https://www.iccsafe.org/building-safety-journal/bsj-technical/methods-of-venting-plumbing-fixtures-and-traps-in-the-2021-international-plumbing-code/", "scope": "Individual vents, common vents and other approved arrangements; connections above fixture flood rims and vent sizing.", "checked": "2026-09-09" }, { "id": "msd-stages", "title": "Greater Salt Lake MSD · remodeling permits and inspections", "url": "https://msd.utah.gov/m/faq", "scope": "Local distinctions between underground, rough plumbing, shower-pan and final inspections. The required inspections depend on the project.", "checked": "2026-09-09" }, { "id": "shower-base", "title": "KOHLER · shower base installation sequence", "url": "https://techcomm.kohler.com/techcomm/pdf/1161835-2.pdf", "scope": "An equipment-specific example: rough plumbing, setting and connecting the base, then wall construction. The selected system determines the actual sequence.", "checked": "2026-09-09" } ], "vent_lesson": { "title": "A drain carries water. A vent gives air a path.", "intro": "Follow a fixture’s air connection to the roof. The dark drains stay visible so the vent has context.", "steps": [ { "name": "Start at the water seal", "text": "The curved trap holds water that blocks sewer air from entering the room. A toilet’s trap is built into its porcelain body.", "source_ids": [ "vent", "toilet" ] }, { "name": "Find the vented connection", "text": "The trap arm is the drain section between the trap and its vented connection. Its length and slope affect how the trap is protected. Here, sink trap arms join vertical sanitary tees; toilet branches have vent connections that rise toward the roof.", "source_ids": [ "vent-methods", "fittings" ] }, { "name": "Follow the air route upward", "text": "A dry vent gives air a path into and out of the drain system. In this model, the vents rise above the fixture flood rims, the edges where water could spill over, before joining the route to the roof.", "source_ids": [ "vent-methods" ] }, { "name": "How wet venting works", "text": "A wet vent serves drainage and venting together in an approved pipe arrangement. Its design accounts for the fixtures served, their connections and pipe sizing. The model uses separate dry vents to make the air routes easy to follow.", "source_ids": [ "vent-methods" ] } ], "examples": [ { "id": "upstairs-sink", "label": "Follow the sink vent" }, { "id": "upstairs-toilet", "label": "Follow the toilet vent" }, { "id": "floor-drain", "label": "Follow the floor-drain vent" } ] }, "parts": [ { "id": "overview", "name": "One house. Connected systems.", "floor": "Whole building", "what": "Pressure brings clean water to fixtures. Gravity carries used water to the sewer. Plumbing vents let air move through the drain system. Gas has its own pipes and controls.", "why": "Trace each new connection back to the shared supply, drain or gas line. That route establishes the access needed through the house.", "look": "Choose a floor, follow a coloured service, then select a fixture. The front walls and part of the floors are cut away so you can see the connections.", "source_ids": [ "water", "vent", "drain" ], "learn": { "label": "Plan the rough-in sequence", "path": "#rm-sequence" } }, { "id": "water-entry", "name": "Main water shutoff", "floor": "Basement", "what": "The main shutoff closes the water supply to the house. Smaller valves at sinks and toilets close the supply to those fixtures.", "why": "Keep the main valve reachable in the finished room. Schedule water shutoffs with the household before work starts.", "look": "The blue pipe enters below ground, reaches the main valve, then branches through the house.", "source_ids": [ "water" ], "learn": { "label": "Water shutoffs and access", "path": "/services/shutoff-valves/" } }, { "id": "cold", "name": "Cold-water distribution", "floor": "Across floors", "what": "One supply branches to the kitchen, laundry and bathrooms. It also feeds the water heater. A toilet needs cold water only.", "why": "Check water delivery for the fixtures expected to run together. Their combined demand determines what the shared supply must provide.", "look": "Follow the blue vertical pipe upward, then out along the branches to each fixture and its shutoff.", "source_ids": [ "water" ], "learn": { "label": "Water pressure and supply checks", "path": "/services/pressure-prv/" } }, { "id": "hot", "name": "Hot-water distribution", "floor": "Across floors", "what": "The orange-red route starts at the water heater and reaches the outlets that need hot water.", "why": "Hot water must travel from the heater to the tap. Longer pipe routes hold more water to clear before the hot water arrives, so route length matters when relocating fixtures.", "look": "Follow the orange-red pipes from the heater to the faucets and shower valve, where hot and cold water mix.", "source_ids": [ "water" ], "learn": { "label": "Check hot-water demand", "path": "/water-heater-sizing/" } }, { "id": "heater", "name": "Storage water heater", "floor": "Basement", "what": "The tank stores heated water for the household. Cold water enters the tank, a gas burner heats it, and the hot outlet supplies the fixtures.", "why": "An added bathroom or larger shower can change hot-water demand. Keep room to operate, service and eventually replace the heater.", "look": "Follow cold water into the tank, hot water out, the separate gas connection and the exhaust above. Two restraint bands secure the tank to backing. Its relief discharge ends openly above the nearby floor drain.", "source_ids": [ "water", "utah" ], "learn": { "label": "Water heater repair and learning hub", "path": "/water-heater-repair/" } }, { "id": "heater-stop", "name": "Water heater inlet shutoff", "floor": "Basement", "what": "This valve closes the cold-water supply entering the heater.", "why": "Finishing the room should leave the valve and heater service area accessible.", "look": "Find the valve on the blue pipe just before it enters the tank.", "source_ids": [ "water" ], "learn": { "label": "Planning a water heater installation", "path": "/services/water-heater-installation/" } }, { "id": "exhaust", "name": "Combustion exhaust", "floor": "Basement to roof", "what": "Burning gas creates combustion products. This metal route carries them from the example water heater toward outdoors.", "why": "A remodel must account for combustion air and the appliance’s exhaust route as well as its water and gas connections.", "look": "Follow the grey metal flue from the heater to its outdoor outlet. Combustion exhaust requires a dedicated, approved route.", "source_ids": [ "gas" ], "learn": { "label": "Water heater installation checks", "path": "/services/water-heater-installation/#whi-checks" } }, { "id": "drain-stack", "name": "Shared drain stack", "floor": "Across floors", "what": "A stack is a vertical drain that receives wastewater from more than one level.", "why": "A new drain connection needs space through the floor, adequate capacity in the stack and a planned vent connection.", "look": "Dark drain branches enter the stack; it turns below the basement and heads toward the sewer.", "source_ids": [ "drain" ], "learn": { "label": "Sewer and underground plumbing", "path": "/services/sewer-underground/" } }, { "id": "vents", "name": "Dry plumbing vents", "floor": "Across floors and roof", "what": "Vents let air move through the drain system, helping protect the water seal in each trap.", "why": "Plan the vent connection when locating a fixture’s drain. The route needs space through the walls and a connection to the vent system.", "look": "Select Plumbing vents to follow the teal air routes upward from the fixtures to the roof outlet.", "source_ids": [ "vent" ], "learn": { "label": "Bathroom drains and fixture explanations", "path": "/bathroom-plumbing-fixture-repairs/" } }, { "id": "underground", "name": "Below-slab drainage", "floor": "Below the basement", "what": "Buried branches join a building drain, which carries wastewater out toward the sewer.", "why": "Locate and measure the existing drain before planning slab access. Its route and depth set the available connection points.", "look": "Choose Below slab. Five branches join one sloping main through wyes—Y-shaped fittings pointed toward the sewer. The stack, basement fixtures and floor drain all connect to this main.", "source_ids": [ "drain", "fittings", "pump" ], "learn": { "label": "Basement planning chapter", "path": "#rm-basement" } }, { "id": "cleanout", "name": "Drain cleanout", "floor": "Basement", "what": "A cleanout is a capped opening where a plumber accesses the inside of a drain for cleaning or inspection.", "why": "Include a reachable access opening in the finished wall, floor or cabinet around each cleanout.", "look": "There is a capped stack cleanout and a floor-level cleanout at the upstream end of the building drain. Both must stay accessible after finishing.", "source_ids": [ "drain" ], "learn": { "label": "Drain service and diagnosis", "path": "/drain-cleaning/" } }, { "id": "basement-sink", "name": "Basement sink", "floor": "Basement", "what": "The faucet gets hot and cold water. Used water passes through a P-trap, then a vented drain connection.", "why": "The sink bowl, cabinet drawers and countertop set how much room remains for the trap and supplies.", "look": "The cabinet is open here so you can see the stops and the U-shaped water-holding part of the trap.", "source_ids": [ "vent", "water" ], "learn": { "label": "Sink and faucet plumbing", "path": "/faucet-sink-repair/" } }, { "id": "upstairs-sink", "name": "Bathroom sink", "floor": "Upstairs", "what": "The faucet gets hot and cold water. Used water passes through a P-trap, then a vented drain connection.", "why": "The sink bowl, cabinet drawers and countertop set how much room remains for the trap and supplies.", "look": "The cabinet is open here so you can see the stops and the U-shaped water-holding part of the trap.", "source_ids": [ "vent", "water" ], "learn": { "label": "Sink and faucet plumbing", "path": "/faucet-sink-repair/" } }, { "id": "basement-toilet", "name": "Basement toilet", "floor": "Basement", "what": "A toilet has a trap built into its porcelain body. It connects through a floor flange to its drain and gets one cold-water supply.", "why": "Select the toilet before setting the rough-in. Measure against the finished wall and coordinate the flange with the finished floor.", "look": "Use Below slab to follow the toilet’s drain branch from its floor connection to the shared building drain.", "source_ids": [ "toilet" ], "learn": { "label": "Toilet connections and repair", "path": "/services/toilet-repair/" } }, { "id": "upstairs-toilet", "name": "Upstairs toilet", "floor": "Upstairs", "what": "A toilet has a trap built into its porcelain body. It connects through a floor flange to its drain and gets one cold-water supply.", "why": "Select the toilet before setting the rough-in. Measure against the finished wall and coordinate the flange with the finished floor.", "look": "Follow the connection below the toilet through the floor to its branch drain and the shared stack.", "source_ids": [ "toilet" ], "learn": { "label": "Toilet connections and repair", "path": "/services/toilet-repair/" } }, { "id": "shower", "name": "Shower and concealed valve", "floor": "Upstairs", "what": "A shower has hot and cold inlets, a mixing valve, an outlet to the head, and a separate trapped drain.", "why": "Tile and backer thickness affect valve depth. The drain must suit the shower base and waterproofing assembly. Resolve those choices before closing the wall.", "look": "The valve and its hot and cold inlets are behind the tiled wall. Turn House shell off to expose them. The head and trim mount to that wall; the shower drain has one P-trap below the receptor.", "source_ids": [ "valve", "vent" ], "learn": { "label": "Shower and tub plumbing", "path": "/services/shower-tub/" } }, { "id": "kitchen", "name": "Kitchen sink and dishwasher", "floor": "Main floor", "what": "The sink has two water supplies and a trapped drain. A dishwasher also needs an appropriate supply and drain connection.", "why": "An island sink needs water, a drain and a vent route through the floor. Coordinate those connections with the cabinet layout.", "look": "The open cabinet shows the trap and water shutoffs. Check the selected dishwasher’s installation instructions for its drain connection.", "source_ids": [ "water", "vent" ], "learn": { "label": "Kitchen remodel planning", "path": "#rm-kitchen" } }, { "id": "laundry", "name": "Laundry standpipe", "floor": "Basement", "what": "The washer hose empties into an open standpipe: a vertical receptor with a trap and vented drain connection.", "why": "A laundry move changes supply, drainage and access. A gas dryer also adds fuel and dryer-exhaust requirements.", "look": "Follow the washer hose to the open top of the standpipe, then follow the pipe down through its trap.", "source_ids": [ "drain", "vent" ], "learn": { "label": "Appliance and laundry plumbing", "path": "/services/appliance-connections/" } }, { "id": "gas-meter", "name": "Outside gas meter and service valve", "floor": "Outside at main-floor grade", "what": "The meter measures gas delivered to the property. The adjacent regulator and service valve are part of the supply arrangement.", "why": "Additional gas equipment can affect shared piping and meter capacity. The utility and plumber have different responsibilities.", "look": "Find the meter outside at main-floor grade, with its display facing away from the house.", "source_ids": [ "gas" ], "learn": { "label": "Utility and homeowner responsibilities", "path": "/gas-line-installation/utah-gas-utility-and-homeowner-responsibilities/" } }, { "id": "gas", "name": "Gas distribution", "floor": "Outside to appliances", "what": "A dedicated gas route enters the house and branches to the example water heater and range.", "why": "Adding or moving gas equipment requires a capacity check using appliance demand, supply pressure and the full pipe route.", "look": "Follow the gold pipe from the outside meter to the range and water heater.", "source_ids": [ "gas" ], "learn": { "label": "The whole gas-line learning hub", "path": "/gas-line-installation/" } }, { "id": "gas-stops", "name": "Appliance gas shutoff and sediment trap", "floor": "Basement", "what": "The shutoff isolates this appliance. The capped pocket below the gas tee is a sediment trap, sometimes casually called a drip leg.", "why": "Leave room to reach the appliance’s shutoff after cabinets and finishes are installed. A sediment trap collects debris before it can enter the appliance’s gas controls.", "look": "Find the water-heater shutoff, then the capped sediment pocket below the tee downstream of it.", "source_ids": [ "gas" ], "learn": { "label": "Appliance gas connections", "path": "/gas-line-installation/appliance-connections/" } }, { "id": "range", "name": "Gas range", "floor": "Main floor", "what": "This example range has its own accessible gas shutoff and appliance connection.", "why": "Cabinets and a moved range can change access and the gas route. Appliance clearances and ventilation also belong in the plan.", "look": "Follow the branch from the shared gas line to the range shutoff and appliance connection.", "source_ids": [ "gas" ], "learn": { "label": "Gas pressure and capacity", "path": "/gas-line-installation/gas-pressure-and-sizing/" } }, { "id": "framing", "name": "Framing and service chases", "floor": "Whole building", "what": "A chase is a space reserved for pipes. Planning that space alongside the wall studs and floor joists gives the pipes a continuous route through the house.", "why": "Plan pipe openings before cutting the framing. Engineered joists have manufacturer limits for hole sizes and locations, and larger structural changes may need an engineer’s detail.", "look": "The exposed studs, joists and floor edges show where pipe routes share space with the building structure.", "source_ids": [ "joist" ], "learn": { "label": "The order of rough-in work", "path": "#rm-sequence" } }, { "id": "floor-drain", "name": "Mechanical-room floor drain", "floor": "Basement and below slab", "what": "The grate leads into a water-filled P-trap and a vented drain branch. The open end of the heater’s temperature-and-pressure relief pipe sits above the grate, with air between the two.", "why": "Keep the drain reachable when finishing the mechanical room. An infrequently used trap can dry out, so its seal needs protection. The illustrated drain includes a barrier device above its P-trap.", "look": "Choose Below slab to follow the floor drain’s trapped branch to the shared drain and sewer outlet.", "source_ids": [ "vent", "trap", "utah" ], "learn": { "label": "Water-heater connections and protection", "path": "/water-heater-repair/" } }, { "id": "roof-vent", "name": "Open roof vent", "floor": "Roof", "what": "This open pipe connects the drainage system to outdoor air.", "why": "Changes to the vent route require suitable pipe sizing, roof placement and flashing to seal the opening against weather.", "look": "The dry vent connections meet inside the upper wall. The open terminal alone passes through the roof; the dark boot seals around the pipe.", "source_ids": [ "vent", "vent-methods" ], "learn": { "label": "How the drain and vent work together", "path": "#rm-vent-lesson" } } ], "projects": [ { "id": "bathroom", "name": "Bathroom remodel", "intro": "Choose the toilet, shower valve, tub or shower base, sink and cabinet early. Their dimensions establish the drain locations, water connections and valve depth.", "decision": "Start with the fixture specifications and a measured layout. Check the drain and vent routes, framing space and access before committing to new positions.", "checks": [ "fixtures", "route", "structure", "water", "access", "closeup" ], "questions": [ "Which exact fixture models and trim have you chosen?", "Will the toilet, shower drain or wall valve move?", "What is the finished wall and floor thickness?" ], "deep": [ { "title": "Measure from the finished surfaces", "text": "The finished wall and floor determine where the connections belong. Include tile, backer and flooring thickness when setting the shower valve depth and locating the toilet connection.", "sources": [ "valve", "toilet" ] }, { "title": "Plan the drain through the floor", "text": "Locate the connection to the existing drain and plan the slope and vent route. Coordinate openings with the floor framing. Include access and ceiling restoration below the bathroom when that route needs to be opened.", "sources": [ "drain", "joist" ] }, { "title": "Check shower demand", "text": "Use the selected shower outlets and their expected simultaneous use to check water delivery and hot-water capacity. WaterSense-labelled fixtures meet water-efficiency and performance criteria, making the label useful when comparing fixture options.", "sources": [ "water", "efficiency" ] } ], "learn": { "label": "Explore bathroom fixture plumbing", "path": "/bathroom-plumbing-fixture-repairs/" }, "stage_impacts": [ { "stage_id": "underground", "text": "Changes to drains beneath a concrete slab require locating the existing branches and planning the new buried connections." }, { "stage_id": "rough-in", "text": "Move or adapt the drains, vents, supplies and concealed valve to the selected fixtures and final wall thickness." }, { "stage_id": "finish", "text": "Connect the toilet, faucet, sink drain and matching shower trim after the relevant finishes are ready." } ] }, { "id": "kitchen", "name": "Kitchen or laundry move", "intro": "Fit the plumbing around the actual sink, cabinets and appliances. Leave space for the drain and water connections, with access to shutoff valves and parts that need servicing.", "decision": "Confirm the drain and vent route before fixing the sink or laundry location. Coordinate the pipes with cabinet drawers, appliances and the available space through the floor.", "checks": [ "fixtures", "route", "structure", "gas", "access", "closeup" ], "questions": [ "Is the sink staying on a wall or moving into an island?", "Which sink, dishwasher, disposal and range are going in?", "Do drawer boxes or pull-out bins occupy the plumbing space?" ], "deep": [ { "title": "Build around the actual cabinet", "text": "Review the sink dimensions and cabinet drawing together. Allow space for the disposal, bins, drawers and water treatment equipment, then locate the supplies and drain. Keep the shutoff valves reachable and room to disconnect the trap.", "sources": [ "water" ] }, { "title": "Plan an island sink’s vent", "text": "An island sink needs a vent connection to protect the water held in its drain trap. Choose an approved vent arrangement for the project and plan its route and service access while the floor and cabinet spaces are open.", "sources": [ "vent" ] }, { "title": "Count the appliances, too", "text": "List the dishwasher, refrigerator, disposal, washer and range models. Assign their water, drainage, electrical and gas connections to the relevant trades. Include appliance access and finish restoration in the estimate.", "sources": [ "plans", "gas" ] } ], "learn": { "label": "Appliance and laundry connections", "path": "/services/appliance-connections/" }, "stage_impacts": [ { "stage_id": "underground", "text": "For a relocated sink or laundry over a slab, establish whether the drain route requires changes to buried piping." }, { "stage_id": "rough-in", "text": "Plan sink and laundry drainage and venting, water lines, and any changed gas appliance connection around the actual cabinet and equipment." }, { "stage_id": "finish", "text": "Connect faucets, traps and the agreed appliance hookups after the cabinets, counter and securely mounted sink are ready." } ] }, { "id": "basement", "name": "Basement bathroom", "intro": "Identify the existing under-slab drains and measure their positions against the proposed room. Check their connections, condition and depth before setting the fixture layout.", "decision": "Measure the available drop from the fixtures to the sewer connection. That establishes whether the planned drains can run by gravity or need a sewage-pump system.", "checks": [ "existing", "route", "pump", "fixtures", "access", "closeup" ], "questions": [ "Are there plans or photos from the original under-slab work?", "Where and how deep is the existing drain connection?", "Are the fixture locations staying over the stubs?" ], "deep": [ { "title": "Match the existing connections to the layout", "text": "Identify each capped pipe and check its position against the selected fixture and finished wall. Verify the shower trap and vent route. Record which connections are suitable to reuse and which need to move.", "sources": [ "toilet", "drain" ] }, { "title": "Plan drainage around the sewer depth", "text": "A suitable sewage-pump system lifts wastewater to a sewer connection that is too high for gravity drainage. Include the covered, vented basin, discharge pipe, controls, power and maintenance access in the room plan. Select equipment rated for the waste it will handle.", "sources": [ "pump" ] }, { "title": "Coordinate access and concrete restoration", "text": "Plan who will locate pipes, cut and remove concrete, excavate, install the drains and restore the slab. Test and inspect the exposed piping, then photograph and measure its location before covering it.", "sources": [ "inspection", "plans" ] } ], "learn": { "label": "Sewer and below-ground plumbing", "path": "/services/sewer-underground/" }, "stage_impacts": [ { "stage_id": "underground", "text": "Identify and verify the existing stubs, or plan new buried branches and the route to the sewer. Decide whether gravity drainage is possible." }, { "stage_id": "rough-in", "text": "Build the room’s water and vent connections and concealed valves, with access to equipment and service points after the room closes." }, { "stage_id": "finish", "text": "Fit and connect the fixtures, verify operation and complete the required final checks before putting the bathroom into use." } ] } ], "checks": [ { "id": "fixtures", "title": "Select the actual fixtures", "why": "Model numbers, cabinet drawings and finish thicknesses turn a sketch into connection locations.", "bring": "Fixture model numbers; sink and cabinet dimensions; valve and trim selections.", "tech": "Check that the chosen fixtures fit the cabinets and that their connections will land correctly after tile and other finishes are installed.", "source_ids": [ "toilet", "valve" ] }, { "id": "route", "title": "Find the drain and vent route", "why": "The route has to work through the real house, including the connection to the plumbing that stays.", "bring": "Existing and proposed fixture locations; photos of accessible pipes; which rooms are below.", "tech": "Establish drainage capacity, grade, venting and how the route can be accessed.", "source_ids": [ "drain", "vent" ] }, { "id": "structure", "title": "Coordinate framing", "why": "Joists, beams and load-bearing walls set limits on the space available for pipes.", "bring": "Framing type if known; plans for walls or openings that change.", "tech": "Mark pipe openings using the limits for the actual framing. Get a design for any change beyond those limits before the structure is cut.", "source_ids": [ "joist" ] }, { "id": "water", "title": "Check shared water and hot-water demand", "why": "Another bathroom adds demand to the lines and heater serving the rest of the home.", "bring": "Which outlets may run together; known flow concerns; the heater model.", "tech": "Assess supply conditions and the combined demand of the planned fixtures, including hot-water use.", "source_ids": [ "water" ] }, { "id": "gas", "title": "Include gas equipment in the plan", "why": "Changing a range or adding equipment may change the required gas delivery and connection.", "bring": "Fuel type, appliance models and planned locations.", "tech": "Review the gas route, load, shutoff access and manufacturer requirements.", "source_ids": [ "gas" ] }, { "id": "existing", "title": "Identify the existing under-slab work", "why": "Pipe location, depth and condition determine which buried connections suit the new layout.", "bring": "Plans, photos, accessible cleanouts and original rough-in records.", "tech": "Verify what the pipes serve and whether they suit the proposed layout.", "source_ids": [ "drain" ] }, { "id": "pump", "title": "Establish gravity drainage first", "why": "Available elevation decides whether waste can run downhill to the connection.", "bring": "Any known sewer depth or existing sewage system information.", "tech": "If gravity is not feasible, plan the appropriate pumping, venting, power and access together.", "source_ids": [ "pump" ] }, { "id": "access", "title": "Keep service points reachable", "why": "A finished room still needs access for valves, cleanouts and equipment service.", "bring": "Cabinet and wall finish plans, including proposed access panels.", "tech": "Mark the service openings on the plan before cabinetry and drywall obscure them.", "source_ids": [ "water", "drain" ] }, { "id": "closeup", "title": "Agree on the cover-up and finish sequence", "why": "The person closing the wall needs to know when the plumbing is ready to be covered.", "bring": "Project address, permit contact and the trades involved.", "tech": "Schedule tests and inspections while the pipes are exposed. Assign wall and floor repairs, and photograph the work before it is covered.", "source_ids": [ "slc", "inspection" ] } ], "phases": [ { "id": "map", "name": "Plan the remodel and open the right areas", "text": "Choose fixtures, establish what stays, locate the existing services and agree on access, permits and the work assigned to each trade. Plan temporary loss of water or use of the room.", "sources": [ "plans", "slc" ] }, { "id": "underground", "name": "Underground work, when the layout needs it", "text": "Install or change the buried connections. Complete the required checks while the work is exposed, then coordinate backfill and concrete restoration.", "sources": [ "inspection", "msd-stages" ] }, { "id": "rough", "name": "Rough-in the concealed plumbing", "text": "Install the above-ground pipes and concealed equipment. Coordinate the framing, shower or tub system, tests and rough inspections before covering the relevant work.", "sources": [ "msd-stages", "joist", "shower-base" ] }, { "id": "surfaces", "name": "The other trades build the finished room", "text": "Complete the planned wall systems, waterproofing, cabinets, counters and flooring in the order required by the selected products. Protect the new plumbing and keep service access open.", "sources": [ "shower-base", "inspection" ] }, { "id": "finish", "name": "Finish the plumbing and check the room", "text": "Connect the remaining fixtures and appliances, check operation and leaks, complete required final inspections and hand over the project records.", "sources": [ "toilet", "inspection" ] } ], "estimate_questions": [ "Does the price assume the current layout or include moving connections?", "Who opens and repairs drywall, tile, cabinets and concrete?", "Which fixtures, valves and connection materials are included?", "Who handles permits, inspections and coordination with other trades?", "How are hidden conditions documented and changes approved?", "Which tests, finish connections and closeout records are included?" ], "faqs": [ { "id": "three-stages", "question": "What is the difference between underground, rough-in and finish plumbing?", "answer": "Underground work installs buried piping. Rough-in places the water pipes, drains, vents and concealed valves before walls and ceilings close. Finish plumbing connects the fixtures and trim after the relevant surfaces are ready. Underground work is also called sub-rough or underground rough-in.", "source_ids": [ "msd-stages", "inspection" ] }, { "id": "every-stage", "question": "How do you decide which plumbing stages my remodel needs?", "answer": "Start with the connections affected by the new layout. Work beneath the slab is underground plumbing, work inside open walls and floors is rough-in, and fitting and connecting the visible fixtures is finish plumbing. Reusable connections can reduce how much of each stage the room needs.", "source_ids": [ "plans", "drain" ] }, { "id": "trim-choice", "question": "Can I choose the shower trim after rough-in?", "answer": "Choose the shower valve and intended trim together before rough-in. The valve inside the wall accepts a specific range of handles and cover plates, and its depth must account for the finished tile surface.", "source_ids": [ "valve" ] }, { "id": "three-visits", "question": "How are plumbing visits scheduled around the other trades?", "answer": "Underground work comes while the slab is open. Rough-in follows with wall and floor routes exposed. After testing, inspections and the room’s finish work, the fixtures can be fitted and connected. The shower system’s installation sequence also needs to fit the tile and waterproofing work.", "source_ids": [ "inspection", "shower-base" ] }, { "id": "permit", "question": "Do plumbing remodels need a permit?", "answer": "Moving or adding plumbing commonly requires a permit. Confirm the requirements with the building department for the project address before work begins. Include the permit contact and required inspections in the remodel schedule.", "source_ids": [ "slc" ] }, { "id": "stubs", "question": "What needs checking on existing basement plumbing stubs?", "answer": "Identify what each capped pipe serves, where it connects, its depth and condition, and its fit with the selected fixture. Check the drainage and vent arrangement before confirming which connections to reuse.", "source_ids": [ "drain", "toilet" ] }, { "id": "pump", "question": "When does a basement bathroom need a sewage pump?", "answer": "Gravity drainage needs a sewer connection low enough to receive the fixtures’ sloping drains. When the connection is too high, a suitable sewage-pump system lifts the wastewater to it. Plan the basin, vent, discharge route, power and service access together.", "source_ids": [ "drain", "pump" ] }, { "id": "few-feet", "question": "What determines the work involved in moving a toilet?", "answer": "The new location needs a water supply, a drain and suitable venting. The drain route must fit through the floor or slab and meet the existing line at the required elevation. Include the access needed to install it and the work to restore the opened surfaces.", "source_ids": [ "drain", "joist" ] }, { "id": "repipe", "question": "Which existing pipes can stay during a remodel?", "answer": "Assess their condition, capacity and fit with the new layout. Identify the lines to retain and those to replace in the estimate, with a process for documenting hidden conditions found during the work.", "source_ids": [ "plans" ] }, { "id": "ready", "question": "What should I have ready before talking to the plumber?", "answer": "Bring the project address, photos of the room and accessible plumbing, a sketch of what moves, selected fixture models, and cabinet and finish details. List the selections and measurements still to be confirmed.", "source_ids": [ "plans", "valve" ] }, { "id": "code", "question": "Which plumbing code applies in Utah?", "answer": "Utah’s adopted editions and amendments, the project type and the permit timing matter. Murray’s July 1, 2026 notice lists the 2024 International Plumbing Code while the International Residential Code remains 2021. Confirm the applicable requirements with the building department for your address.", "source_ids": [ "murray" ] } ], "history": [ { "date": "2026-09-09", "version": "1.2.1", "change": "Edited stage chapters, room planning, part explanations and common questions for direct descriptions of the work, connection details and trade handoffs." }, { "date": "2026-09-09", "version": "1.2.0", "change": "Reorganized the remodel hub around underground, rough-in and finish plumbing, with detailed stage chapters, readiness checks, room-specific stage explanations and connected 3D views." }, { "date": "2026-09-09", "version": "1.1.0", "change": "Rebuilt connected underground drainage, floor drain and trap protection; corrected shower placement, supply proportions, vents and source-based component explanations." }, { "date": "2026-09-09", "version": "1.0.0", "change": "Added the three-level house lesson, room planning chapters, preparation checklist, reference trail and public source record." } ], "stages_intro": { "title": "The three stages of a plumbing remodel.", "text": "A plumbing remodel connects your new room to the water, drainage and gas systems already in the house. The work follows three stages.", "scope": "Start with the fixture layout and existing pipe routes. These establish which connections stay, which move and where walls, floors or concrete need to open.", "overlap": "On schedules and inspection lists, buried work is also called “sub-rough” or “underground rough-in.”" }, "stages": [ { "id": "underground", "name": "Underground plumbing", "short": "The buried connections beneath the slab or in the ground.", "timing": "Before backfill and concrete cover the new work.", "definition": "Underground plumbing is piping installed in the ground. For a basement remodel, that usually means the drain branches beneath the concrete floor and their connection to the sewer route.", "remodel": "Changes to buried fixture connections require access through the slab. The plumber locates the existing drain, checks its depth and condition, and lays out the new branches to match the room plan.", "work": [ { "name": "Locate the existing drain", "text": "Establish where the drain runs, how deep it is and where the new work will connect. Identify the purpose of each capped pipe using available plans, inspection and locating work." }, { "name": "Lay out the fixture connections", "text": "Mark the toilet connection, shower trap and drain branches from the selected fixtures. A branch joins a fixture to the shared drain. A trap holds water to block sewer gases." }, { "name": "Open the slab and install the pipes", "text": "Cut and remove the planned section of concrete, excavate and bed the new pipe so it is supported along its route. Position the fittings for later fixture connections, then test and inspect before backfilling and restoring the slab." }, { "name": "Connect the drainage and venting", "text": "Give the drains a continuous downhill route to the sewer connection. Plan vent connections and accessible drain-cleaning openings. Where the sewer connection is too high for gravity drainage, plan the sewage-pump system." } ], "example": { "title": "Why drain depth matters", "text": "A buried drain loses height along its route as it slopes toward the sewer. The available depth must accommodate that fall, the fittings and the fixture connection. Measure the existing connection before setting the new drain elevations." }, "ready_title": "Before the trench is covered", "ready": [ "The actual fixture layout matches the new connections.", "The required pipe tests and under-floor inspection are complete, with any corrections resolved.", "Pipe locations are photographed and measured. The schedule identifies who will backfill the trench and restore the concrete." ], "detail": "A project that changes buried water or gas service also needs a planned route and suitable pipe and fittings for that service.", "source_ids": [ "drain", "pump", "inspection", "msd-stages" ], "view_label": "Explore the buried drains in 3D", "related": { "path": "/services/sewer-underground/", "label": "More on sewer and underground work" } }, { "id": "rough-in", "name": "Rough-in plumbing", "short": "The pipes and concealed connections installed before walls and ceilings close.", "timing": "While framing and plumbing routes are accessible.", "definition": "Rough-in plumbing installs the water pipes, drains, vents and concealed valves inside the walls and floors. The connections are positioned while the framing is open, ready for the room’s fixtures.", "remodel": "The plumber opens the agreed areas, connects the new routes to the existing system and sets the fixture connection points. The layout coordinates pipe space, framing, cabinets and the thickness of the finished surfaces.", "work": [ { "name": "Position the connections", "text": "Use the actual sink, cabinet, toilet, tub and shower specifications. A stub-out is a pipe end left ready for a later connection. Locate it with room for wall finishes, flooring, drawers and the fixture itself." }, { "name": "Install water, drain and vent lines", "text": "Run the water supplies and install the drains, vents and concealed shower valve. DWV means drain, waste and vent: pipes that carry used water away and provide air paths to protect the water held in traps." }, { "name": "Support and protect the pipes", "text": "Route pipes around beams and through permitted openings in the floor joists. Supports hold the pipes in position, and protective plates shield vulnerable spots from screws and nails used during finish work." }, { "name": "Check the equipment connections", "text": "Include gas piping, appliance connections and changes to hot-water demand in the plan. Check the selected equipment against the capacity of the shared systems that supply it." } ], "example": { "title": "Set the shower valve depth", "text": "The valve body sits inside the wall, with the handle and cover plate against the finished surface. Its installation guide gives the depth range. Add the planned backer and tile thickness when setting that position during rough-in." }, "ready_title": "Before the walls and ceilings close", "ready": [ "Fixture positions, valve depth and service access agree with the final room layout.", "The specified tests and required rough inspections are complete, with corrections resolved.", "The next trades know where the pipes are and which valves, cleanouts or devices must remain reachable." ], "detail": "Tubs and shower bases are installed at the stage specified by their manufacturer. Their drains, wall systems and waterproofing need a coordinated sequence, including any required shower-pan test.", "source_ids": [ "water", "drain", "vent", "joist", "valve", "gas", "shower-base", "msd-stages" ], "view_label": "Explore bathroom rough-in connections in 3D", "related": { "path": "#rm-bathroom", "label": "Plan a bathroom plumbing remodel" } }, { "id": "finish", "name": "Finish plumbing", "short": "The fixtures, trim and final connections that make the room usable.", "timing": "When the relevant surfaces and fixtures are ready for connection.", "definition": "Finish plumbing installs and connects faucets, toilets, sink drains, traps, shower trim and the planned appliance hookups. It is also called trim-out. Shower trim is the visible handle, cover plate and outlets fitted to the valve in the wall.", "remodel": "The plumber connects the new fixtures to the prepared rough-in, fits the matching trim and checks operation. Cabinets, counters and the relevant wall and floor finishes must be ready for those connections.", "work": [ { "name": "Set and connect the selected fixtures", "text": "Fit toilets and faucets, connect sink drains and traps, and complete the specified shutoffs, supply lines and appliance hookups. Finish the sink connections after the sink and countertop are securely installed." }, { "name": "Fit the matching shower trim", "text": "Fit the handle, cover plate and outlets that match the installed valve. Complete the operating adjustments in the manufacturer’s instructions." }, { "name": "Run water and check operation", "text": "Check the new connections for leaks. Confirm that fixtures fill, drain and shut off correctly, and verify hot and cold operation and equipment settings." }, { "name": "Hand over a serviceable room", "text": "Complete the required final inspection. Show the owner the shutoff locations and service access, and hand over fixture information and records of the concealed work." } ], "example": { "title": "Leave room beneath the sink", "text": "The bowl, disposal and cabinet drawers determine the space available for the drain and water connections. Check them together so the trap can be disconnected and the shutoff valves remain within reach." }, "ready_title": "Before the finish visit", "ready": [ "The relevant cabinet, counter, flooring and wall finishes are ready and the fixtures are on site.", "Faucet, drain and shower trim models match the planned connections and concealed equipment.", "Have the sink mounted and ready for its plumbing connections. A countertop or sink specialist handles undermount mounting, and we connect the water and drain." ], "detail": "The handoff schedule should identify who completes waterproofing, tile, paint and cabinet work, then makes the room available for the final plumbing connections and required inspections.", "source_ids": [ "toilet", "valve", "water", "inspection", "msd-stages" ], "view_label": "Inspect the finished bathroom fixtures in 3D", "related": { "path": "/bathroom-plumbing-fixture-repairs/", "label": "Learn about bathroom fixtures and their parts" } } ] }