Two part question. 1. A almost new house, a 4" PVC pipe 1/2 inch above the concrete basement floor has something in it that looks like it turns but won't. Pipe has a cap on it. What the heck is it? 2. I would like to cut it off just BELOW the floor level and put the cap back on it so the floor can be carpeted. Any ideas? BBW

Hey Billy-Bob,

"1. A almost new house, a 4" PVC pipe 1/2 inch above the concrete basement floor has something in it that looks like it turns but won't. Pipe has a cap on it. What the heck is it?"

This is a rough in for a toilet.

" 2. I would like to cut it off just BELOW the floor level and put the cap back on it so the floor can be carpeted."

This can be done as you've described. However I would make sure that the cap you install under the pour is a permanent cap and not a test cap. Good luck, Tom

Probably should have mentioned that plumbing for a complete bath is roughed in elsewhere and am in the process of installing same. This pipe is out in the middle of a large area. Can't make out what it is down inside it that looks like it should turn. Also wondering how to cut it off below floor level. Top of pipe is cut off square so cap sits level now. BBW

Hey Billy-Bob,

Sounds like it may be a clean-out. You have options here. You can cut the pipe below the floor line using a inside PVC pipe cutter, (see image) and install a cleanout cover or you can cap it off and carpet over it. Good luck, Tom

Cleanout is probably what it is. I'm going to look for the cutter. Thanks. BBW

Now I'm thnking it is more likely a back flow device in the sewer line. I have looked at a couple flapper valve type back flow valves and they have a removable top. That may be what I'm seeing about a foot down.

Now I'm thnking it is more likely a back flow device in the sewer line. I have looked at a couple flapper valve type back flow valves and they have a removable top. That may be what I'm seeing about a foot down.

I don't know. As a rule when we install a sewage back flow device we don't bury it under the cement. It's installed out the house just ahead of the cleanout on the house side. If your sewer's going to back up we like to keep it outside the house. Regards, tom

I can understand that, and I saw pictures showing back flow valves outside. That's logical. It's a mystery. It's my son's house, 22 months old, and they bought it without much information from the previous owner.