How to Hide Sewer Cleanout in Basement?
Having a sewer cleanout pipe in the middle of my basement always bugged me. It was an unsightly eyesore that ruined the look of the space. But I didn’t want to just cover it up permanently since it needs to be accessible for plumbing work. After some research, I found several clever solutions to camouflage that ugly pipe without blocking it off completely. In this article, I’ll share the different methods I discovered, from simple plug replacements to building enclosures around it. Get ready to transform your basement!
Replace the Plug
Sometimes, a simple plug replacement is all you need to hide that unsightly sewer cleanout. Let me break down a few options for you:
Use Flush Mount Plug
One of my personal favorites is the flush mount plug. These bad boys sit flush with the floor, making them practically invisible to the naked eye. They’re typically made of durable materials like metal or plastic and come in various finishes to match your flooring. Whether you have tile, hardwood, or even concrete, there’s a flush mount plug out there that will blend right in.
The process of installing one is super simple. All you have to do is unscrew the existing plug and replace it with the flush mount version. It’s like a magic trick, but instead of making a rabbit appear, you make an eyesore disappear! Just be sure to measure the opening correctly to get the right size plug.
Use Decorative Plug
Now, if you don’t mind the cleanout being slightly visible, a decorative plug might be the way to go. These plugs are designed to be functional and stylish, so they’ll add a touch of flair to your basement while still covering up that unsightly pipe.
You can find decorative plugs made of various materials like brass, stainless steel, or even ceramic. They come in all sorts of designs, from sleek and modern to ornate and vintage. It’s like having a tiny piece of art on your floor! Just make sure the design complements the overall aesthetic of your basement.
Use a Waste Basket
If you’re looking for a quick, inexpensive, and temporary solution, consider using a decorative waste basket to hide that cleanout. This option is perfect if you’re renting or planning to move soon, and you don’t want to invest too much time or money into a more permanent solution.
Simply find a waste basket with a wide enough base to cover the entire area surrounding the cleanout. You can even get creative and choose one that matches your decor or adds a pop of color to the space. Just make sure it’s not too heavy or cumbersome to move when you need to access the cleanout.
Build Around the Cleanout
For those of you who are feeling a bit more ambitious (and maybe a tad handy with tools), you can take things a step further and build around the cleanout to conceal it completely. Let me break down a couple of options for you:
Build a Small Access Box or Enclosure
One popular solution is to build a small enclosure around the cleanout. You can construct it out of wood or drywall, depending on your preference and skill level. The key is to make it blend seamlessly with your basement walls and ceiling by painting or texturing it to match the surrounding area.
Now, I know what you’re thinking: “But won’t that make it impossible to access the cleanout?” You’ll want to leave a removable panel or door in your enclosure to allow easy access when needed. You can even get fancy and add a hidden latch or magnetic closure for a seamless look.
Building this enclosure may seem like a tough task, but trust me, with a little patience and the right tools, it’s totally doable. Plus, you’ll get the satisfaction of knowing you did it yourself!
Build Cabinetry or Shelving
If the cleanout is located near a wall, you can take things a step further and build cabinetry or shelving around it. Not only will this hide the pipe, but it will also add some much-needed storage space to your basement.
You can get as creative as you want with the design, whether you’re going for a sleek and modern look or a more rustic, farmhouse vibe. The possibilities are endless! Just make sure to leave enough clearance around the cleanout for easy access when needed.
Building cabinetry or shelving is no small feat, but let me tell you, the end result is worth it. Imagine having a beautiful, custom-built unit that not only conceals that eyesore but also provides additional storage for all your basement essentials. It’s a win-win situation!
Avoid Doing the Following Thing While Hiding Sewer Cleanout
Now, before you get too carried away with your grand plans to hide the sewer cleanout, there’s one crucial thing you need to keep in mind: never, under any circumstances, permanently enclose or obstruct the cleanout.
Why, you ask? Well, my friend, that cleanout serves an important purpose. It allows plumbers to access your sewer line for maintenance or repairs. If it’s permanently blocked or hidden, you could be in for a world of trouble (and a hefty plumbing bill) down the line.
So, no matter which method you choose, make sure there’s a way to easily access the cleanout when needed. Proper marking or labeling can also help identify its location, so you (or any future homeowners) don’t have to go on a wild goose chase trying to find it.
Trust me, you don’t want to be the one responsible for creating a plumbing nightmare. Play it safe and keep that cleanout accessible!
Conclusion
Hiding an exposed sewer cleanout doesn’t have to be difficult. With the tips I’ve provided, you can easily conceal that eyesore while still allowing access when needed. Whether using a decorative plug, building a box around it, or getting creative with cabinetry, there’s a solution for every skill level and budget. Don’t let that cleanout ruin your beautifully finished basement any longer. Take action and camouflage it using one of these methods. I hope this guide has been helpful. Feel free to ask any other questions in the comments!
