What is the purpose of a plumbing rough-in?

The purpose of a plumbing rough-in is to install plumbing components before the walls are closed. This phase of plumbing installation occurs when the framing is complete but before the drywall or finishes are applied. During the rough-in, pipes, drainage systems, and other essential components are placed in the correct locations to accommodate future fixtures such as sinks, toilets, and showers. This is a critical step because it allows plumbers to ensure that everything is properly aligned, meets codes, and functions correctly once the walls are finished and sealed. Proper rough-in can prevent costly rework at a later stage when access to the plumbing system is significantly more challenging.