What does "plumb" refer to in carpentry?

In carpentry, "plumb" specifically refers to a vertical alignment that is perfectly straight up and down. It is essential in ensuring that structures such as walls, doors, and windows are vertically aligned, which significantly impacts the overall stability and appearance of the finished project. When a carpenter checks for plumb, they typically use a plumb line, which is a string with a weight attached that shows a straight vertical line due to gravity. This vertical orientation is crucial for ensuring that elements are properly positioned and function as intended.

Understanding the concept of plumb is fundamental for achieving precise and level constructions, so recognizing how it contributes to the overall integrity of work is vital for any carpentry practice.