What is the requirement for joints where fixtures contact walls and floors?

The requirement for joints where fixtures contact walls and floors being sealed water-tight is essential for preventing leaks and maintaining hygiene within plumbing systems. When fixtures such as sinks, toilets, and bathtubs are installed, it is crucial to ensure that the points where they meet the walls and floors are properly sealed. This is to prevent water from seeping out during use, which can lead to water damage, mold growth, and various other issues.

Sealed water-tight joints help maintain the integrity of both the plumbing system and the surrounding structure. This practice also aligns with building codes and standards, which mandate that these joints must be watertight to minimize the risk of moisture-related problems in the future.

Other options like being unsealed and open, loosely fitted, or using duct tape are inappropriate methods as they would fail to provide the necessary barrier against leaks and could result in significant plumbing and structural issues over time.