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Angle stop

An angle stop is the small shutoff valve under a sink or behind a toilet.

Plumbing, Drains, and Water Systems

Why it matters

It lets you service a faucet or toilet without shutting water off to the whole house.

Where people get this wrong

Angle stops can seize if they are never used. A decorative cover does not mean the valve is accessible.

Real-world example

You replace a faucet and the valve will not close all the way. Now a simple swap turns into a plumber call because the angle stop is worn out.

Where this hits your build

This comes up during rough-in and final fixture installation. Accessibility for future repairs matters as much as the initial install.

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