How to Replace a Toilet
Changing toilet is generally left to be a job for professional plumber. The process, however, is not that difficult or time-consuming, as it is thought to be. Plus, it can save you some money, and you do not have to complain about half-done job by the plumber.
It is not necessary the work done by the plumber matches your standards of finishing and perfection.
Instructions
-
1
Measurement of ‘Rough-In’
Measurement of ‘rough-in’ – the area from wall to waste pipe. Generally, waste pipe is centred about 12 inches from wall. However, some toilets nowadays have measurement of 10 or even 14 inches, respectively. So you must know the distance at the time of buying new toilet. An easy way is to measure distance from wall to hold-down bolts. -
2
Select Brass Bolts
A common problem with generally used metal bolts to hold toilet is that they quickly catch rust. The use of Brass Bolts is strongly recommended to avoid this problem. They use steel screws, which are stainless, do not break off and easy to drive while fixing or removing. Above all, they remain rust-free for a longer time. -
3
Cut Old Rusted Bolts
Generally, old bolts are not easy to remove. The task is almost impossible to accomplish if they are metal ones and rusted. So do not waste your time while trying to remove them. Cut them straightaway, instead. A hacksaw blade is an effective solution, which can be easily purchasable from any hardware shop. -
4
Locking of Hold-Down Bolts
The locking of hold-down bolts and adding wax ring is a bit challenging task. There is a possibility that bolts slip or tip while you try to align them. You to be very accurate in your measurement to effectively position them. Otherwise, setting wax ring is very difficult and then toilet is not going to be held on by the bolts correctly. It is better you use masking tape to mark their locations. Once bolts are fixed, try to place the toilet to check its positioning and height. If you are satisfied then add wax ring. -
5
Fixing Flange
This is a critical part of your toilet installation project. If flange is loose, it is likely toilet will leak and rock. So make sure flange is rock-solid, not loose or damaged. A general tip is that use Ear-type ring. It helps screws strongly hold in the soft or decayed floor. The best solution is further dependent on the level of decay in the floor. So well check it before fixing flange. -
6
Check for Rocking
It is must that your toilet does not rock. This problem occurs when the floor is uneven. If the toilet rocks it is vulnerable to leak or even breaking wax ring in the longer run if not immediately. So check for wobbles before you are satisfied from the work.
A general solution to the rocking is use steel washers, if the gaps are small. If the gaps are large, use of shims is normally recommended. -
7
Tightening of Water Connection
Availability of a flexible water supply line is plus in the best use of toilet. They are easy to install and use. Make sure to use ones covered with stainless steel mesh. Also, try not to over-tighten water connections because sometimes they are source to leak of water and then rusts. -
8
Squishing of Wax Ring
The wax wring needs to squished until the toilet is settled to the floor. An easy way is to sit on the toilet to let ring squish easily, but be careful and do not force the toilet down. It can crack the porcelain base. -
9
Shopping List
- Toilet Flange
- Wax Ring
- Brass Bolts
- Plastic Shims
- Caulk
- Flexible Water Supply -
10
Tools Needed
- Adjustable Wrench
- Cordless Drill
- Caulk Gun
- Tape Measure
- Hacksaw
- Pliers
- Slip Joint Pliers
- Shop Vacuum
- Utility Knife
- Screwdriver
- Tape Measure
