C-1 Plumbing Fixtures and Trim Introduction

The following terms will be used throughout this section. A complete list of terms for this section can be found in the Glossary.

• angle stop: A small shutoff valve installed at the water supply stub to control water flow to a fixture. (Section C-1.2)
• architectural drawings: Drawings that provide room dimensions, fixture arrangements, and building materials, serving as a primary reference for rough-in work. (Section C-1.2)
• back lip: The rear edge of a bathtub that is supported by a horizontal ledge to provide stability and prevent movement. (Section C-1.2)
• cartridge faucets: A type of faucet that control the flow of water using a cartridge inside. The cartridge is a small, replaceable part that moves to let water flow in or out when you turn the handle. These faucets are easy to use and can help control both the temperature and the amount of water that comes out. (Section C-1.1)
• clearance: The minimum space required between fixtures and walls or other structures, as regulated by codes and specifications. (Section C-1.2)
• closet flange: A fitting that connects the water closet to the waste pipe, ensuring a secure connection. (Section C-1.2)
• composite stone: A strong material made by mixing crushed natural stone with glue or resin. It looks like real stone but is made in factories and is often used for countertops, floors, and walls. (Section C-1.1)
• compression fitting: A plumbing connection method that uses a nut and ferrule to create a watertight seal on supply lines. (Section C-1.2)
• Drainage, Waste, and Vent (DWV) System: A network of pipes that remove wastewater and provide ventilation to prevent sewer gases from entering buildings. (Section C-1.2)
• drop ear fitting: A fitting used to anchor the showerhead securely to the wall, often with a female iron pipe thread (FIP). (Section C-1.2)
• electrical drawings: Diagrams showing the layout of electrical lines, outlets, and fixtures to prevent conflicts with plumbing installations. (Section C-1.2)
• fire stop rating: A classification system indicating how long a barrier (e.g., firewall, floor) can prevent the spread of fire. (Section C-1.2)
• fixture: A plumbing device, like a sink or toilet, that uses water. (Section C-1.1)
• flushometer valves: A special valve used in public bathrooms instead of a regular toilet tank. It releases a strong burst of water to flush the toilet or urinal quickly and refills right away, so it can be used often without waiting. Direct-flush valves are a “tankless” design that uses water pressure from the supply line rather than a tank of water to flush the fixture (Figure 10, Section C-1.1)
• gray water or process water: Used water from sinks, showers, bathtubs, and washing machines. It is not dirty like toilet water and can sometimes be cleaned and reused for things like watering plants or flushing toilets. (Section C-1.1)
• High-Efficiency Toilets (HETs): Toilets that use less water to flush but still work just as well as regular toilets. They help save water and lower water bills. (Section C-1.1)
• isometric drawing: A three-dimensional technical drawing that illustrates the layout, connections, and travel path of plumbing pipes. (Section C-1.2)
• mechanical drawings: Plans that depict the layout of supply piping, waste and vent lines, and other mechanical systems within a building. (Section C-1.2)
• P-trap: A U-shaped pipe that prevents sewer gases from entering a home by trapping water. (Section C-1.2)
• pedestal basin: A type of sink supported by a freestanding pedestal that conceals plumbing connections. (Section C-1.2)
• plumber’s putty: A pliable sealing compound used to create watertight seals around drains and fixtures. (Section C-1.2)
• pressure-assist: A toilet system that uses compressed air to create a stronger flush. As the tank refills, a vessel captures and compresses air, which helps push the water into the bowl more quickly. This results in a more powerful and efficient flush, using less water while improving cleaning performance. (Section C-1.1)
• rough-in: The initial stage of plumbing installation before walls and floors are finished. (Section C-1.1)
• self-rimming basin: A sink with a built-in lip or rim that rests on the countertop, requiring minimal installation support. (Section C-1.2)
• specification sheet: A document that includes technical details about a fixture, including rough-in dimensions and installation requirements. (Section C-1.2)
• trapway: The curved pipe at the bottom of a toilet or sink that helps carry away water and waste. It also keeps a little bit of water inside to stop bad smells from coming back up. (Section C-1.1)
• vacuum-assist: A system in some toilets that helps the flush work more powerfully. It uses air pressure to help pull the waste and water down the drain quickly, using less water. (Section C-1.1)
• water closets: Another name for toilets, which are used for flushing away waste. (Section C-1.1)
• weir: The top edge of the water inside a toilet or sink drain trap (the trapway’s highest point). It helps control the flow of water and keeps some water in the trap to block bad smells from coming back up. (Section C-1.1)
• wing back elbow: A pipe fitting with mounting wings that allows secure attachment to a backing board, commonly used for shower and tub spouts. (Section C-1.2)