Basement Waste Stack

The Vintage Sou · 08-17-2010, 10:51 AM

I live in a 1938 brick cottage for almost two years. I'm thinking of added a bathroom in the basement. Nothing has been roughed in, but I'm trying to figure out if this pipe, drain or whatever it is near the waste stack can be used in some way to help in the process of creating the bathroom.

I've been trying to figure something about the waste stack. About 6 inches from where the waste stack comes up from the concrete floor is some type of closed off pipe or drain. It lays flush with the floor and is covered with a diamond shaped screw or nut I'm assuming its the lid. It's not anything new, looks like it's been there for some years, maybe even since the house was built.

Does anyone have any idea what this is? I've called a plumber to come over but he won't becoming until Friday.

LateralConcepts · 08-17-2010, 11:06 AM

Probably a cleanout. Take a picture.

The Vintage Sou · 08-17-2010, 12:15 PM

Do have any idea how much it will cost to get a bath roughed in? Pic attached

LateralConcepts · 08-17-2010, 02:47 PM

Yes, that's a cleanout. It's the top side of a "WYE" fitting under the floor. Can you take another picture close up of the rusty looking pipe directly below the PVC and no-hub band. Hard to tell from your picture, but almost looks like clay. Probably not, most likely cast iron.

Also, what is beyond that piece of wood 2x6 or whatever it is (top right side of photo)? Beyond that is where you would WYE in a new line for your bathroom. Lots to consider however besides drains like water, power, ventilation.

As far as cost of roughing in a new bathroom, pricing can vary a lot depending on who you hire. In this economy there are lots of starving plumbers and handymen. Remember the old saying though; you get what you pay for. It's best to get local recommendations from friends, neighbors, chamber, bbb, etc. Get a few bids and go from there. Cheapest isn't always best. You can also save by doing some of the work yourself. i.e. breaking up concrete, excavating, hauling, repairing concrete.

Considering the age of the house, it would be wise to have a video inspection of the sewer line also. I've seen people pour money into finishing a basement only to have it flood with sewage. The cap on your cleanout doesn't look likes it's been off in quite some time. That could be good... could be bad.