5 Essential Tips for a Perfect Toilet Installation

A toilet installation might seem like a straightforward job – after all, how hard can it be to hook up a few pipes and bolts? As it turns out, it’s not quite as simple as pulling the flush lever. Installing a toilet yourself can quickly spiral into a frustrating and time-consuming ordeal filled with unexpected leaks, misalignments, and aching backs.

While it’s great to be ambitious, some tasks are best left to the professionals.If you’re considering tackling a toilet installation yourself, this article brought to you by Mr. Rooter Plumbing offers five essential tips for getting it right. Spoiler alert: you might find hiring a professional plumber is the smartest move after all.

1. Choose the Right Toilet for Your Bathroom

Toilets come in different sizes, shapes, and configurations, and you have to pick one that fits your bathroom’s space and plumbing setup. Selecting the wrong one can lead to major headaches.

Before you go out shopping, take some measurements. The “rough-in” measurement (the distance from the wall to the center of the floor drain) is critical. Standard toilets typically have a 12-inch rough-in, but some older homes might have 10- or 14-inch configurations.

You can decide between other options as you’re shopping. You’ll decide between a one-piece or two-piece toilet, round or elongated bowl, and other features like water efficiency or built-in bidets.

2. Prepare Your Bathroom

Don’t play as you go. Preparation is key to avoiding unnecessary hiccups during the installation process. Start by shutting off the water supply and draining the old toilet completely. Then, remove rugs, toiletries, and anything else in the way. You’ll need room to work.

3. Use a Wax Ring Correctly

The wax ring might be small, but it plays a big role in preventing leaks. This doughnut-shaped piece seals the base of the toilet to the drainpipe so that water stays where it belongs: in the piping!

Note that wax rings come in various thicknesses. If your flange sits below floor level, you’ll need a thicker ring or an additional spacer. Also remember that wax rings are delicate. Mishandling or misaligning them can lead to leaks that aren’t always immediately noticeable. The last thing you want is a toilet repair on a new toilet.

4. Align and Secure the Toilet Properly

Setting the toilet onto the flange might sound easy, but precision is crucial. If it’s not perfectly aligned, then you could end up with a wobbly toilet or damaged parts. It can even lead to cracks that require a toilet replacement altogether!

Take your time, and get someone to help if necessary. Lower the toilet slowly and carefully onto the flange; make sure the bolts line up with the holes. When tightening the bolts, remember not to overtighten. Over-tightening one side can crack the toilet’s base or flange.

5. Test for Leaks and Make Adjustments

The job isn’t done until you’ve tested it thoroughly. With everything presumably installed, turn the water back on and watch closely for any leaks around the base or connections. Flush multiple times and check for any signs of water seeping from the wax ring or tank fittings.

A small leak might not seem like a big deal, but over time, it can cause water damage, mold, and structural issues that are far costlier to fix. Handle it now to avoid plumbing service in Grand Prairie, TX later.

Hire a Local Plumber Today

If you live in Dallas and you’ve been searching the web for “plumber near me ,” then you are at the right place. Mr. Rooter is an established, licensed, and reputable business with decades of industry experience.

Our trained plumbers have you covered with everything from an emergency clogged toilet fix to a toilet installation or two. In short, we’re your one-stop-shop for all of your local plumbing needs.