Are you in need of a new toilet installation? While it might seem like a simple DIY job, there are complex matters such as water efficiency and proper sewage disposal to consider.
Unless you have solid plumbing knowledge, it’s recommended to hire a professional. Not only will they ensure everything is installed correctly, but they can spot potential issues that could lead to costly repairs in the future.
Sunset Plumbing in Redmond is an excellent option for reliable and efficient toilet installation. Having a plumber around gives you peace of mind knowing your bathroom is in safe hands.
Can I Install a Toilet Myself?
Absolutely, with some knowledge and the right tools, you can install a toilet by yourself. This DIY project isn’t as complex as it seems.
You’ll need a new wax ring, supply line, the correct bolts, a wrench, pliers, a screwdriver, and additional washers with corresponding nuts.
The first step involves attaching the tank to your toilet bowl. Lift the tank above the bowl aligning both screw fittings. Insert screws and tighten them evenly.
Beyond this, you’ll need to set flange bolts in place. Slide these into the flange along with loose washers and nuts for secure attachment.
Supply Line and Pliers
| Steps | Instructions | Tools Needed |
| Install Wax Ring | Place directly between bolts on the flange | Wax Ring |
| Position Toilet | Lift the toilet over flange bolts; apply weight to secure it | N/A |
| Secure Toilet Base | Tighten nuts on flange bolts; cut off excess bolt length | Pliers and Screwdriver |
| Connect the Water Supply Line | Fix new line to the back of the toilet and tighten connection securely |
Once these steps are complete, flush the toilet to confirm there are no leaks.
Though the task may seem daunting, with careful attention and a little patience, you can easily install your own toilet.
Removing the Old Toilet
Begin the toilet replacement process by preparing to remove the old unit. Always remember safety first, so put on your gloves.
Your first task is dealing with the wax around the flange. Reach for your trusty putty knife and carefully scrape away.
Involve yourself in a quick examination of the closet flange. If it’s intact, proceed. However, if it’s broken, replace it immediately.
- Introduce new closet bolts into the flange. Tighten them manually to prevent overtightening.
- Disconnect the water supply line from the toilet using an adjustable wrench.
- Lift the old toilet straight up and away from the flange, then set it aside in a secure place.
- Block the drain with a rag to prevent unpleasant sewer gasses from invading your home
The next step involves the removal of the old wax ring. Use your putty knife to scrape off any remaining wax from the flange.
Carefully inspect both the flange and surrounding floor for possible damage. Provide immediate remedy where required.
When installing your new toilet, ensure that the wax ring is correctly positioned and that closet bolts are hand tightened.
Avoid using too much force when tightening to circumvent inflicting damage on your newly replaced flange.
Your final task involves reconnecting the water supply line. Make sure to test your new toilet for proper function afterwards.
Prep the Floor and Soil Pipe
Getting your bathroom floor ready is essential before installing a toilet. It requires thoroughness to ensure stability.
Your first task is to deal with the soil pipe. This pipe connects the toilet drain to the sewer system in your house.
- Inspect the soil pipe . Make sure it’s not damaged or blocked.
- Measure the distance between the center of the soil pipe and both the back and side walls to ensure correct fitting.
- Clean around and inside the soil pipe. Remove any dust, debris or old wax.
- Double-check water table and soil conditions, similar to how Howard Brickman addressed his project’s challenging soil conditions.
The condition of your bathroom floor is equally important. You need a level surface for proper toilet installation.
Once your prep work is complete, you’re on your way to having a new functioning toilet installed.
Install Soil Pipe and Closet Flange
Begin by preparing the soil pipe. Using a pipe cutter, cut it to your preferred length. Then clean it of any debris or burrs.
You also need to apply a pipe joint compound on the pipe threads. This step ensures a secure fit when connecting your soil pipe and closet flange.
“Always remember that securing the connection between your soil pipe and flange is crucial for a successful installation.”
To connect the soil pipe to the closet flange, turn the soil pipe into the flange using a pipe wrench. Make sure it’s properly seated.
Clean around the area where you’ll install the toilet flange. Add a small amount of adhesive to the bottom of the flange before you press it firmly in place, aligning it with the drain pipe’s center.
You must secure your newly installed toilet flange. Take off excess adhesive around the flange with a putty knife and allow it to set. Finally, drill screws into the floor to secure your flange.
Setting the Bowl and Wax Ring
The first step involves your new bowl, if you have a two-piece toilet model.
You need to handle them upside down during the setup process.
Positioning of Wax Ring
Your objective is to place the wax ring on the horn of the unit outlet.
It’s pivotal to get this positioning correct as it supports proper alignment.
Installation of New Nuts
Start by installing some new nuts by hand. This helps you secure the toilet bowl in place.
Doing so provides stability whilst realigning and adjusting the wax ring.
Tightening in a Star Pattern
Tighten the nuts using a star pattern strategy. It’s crucial for ensuring balanced pressure.
This pattern prevents imbalanced force and helps establish a robust seal.
Maintaining a Good Seal
The effectiveness of your toilet setup resides heavily in maintaining a good seal.
A good seal guarantees that there are no future leaks or complications.
Installation of Tank and Supply Line
The installation of your toilet’s tank and supply line is a critical step. It ensures a smooth and leak-free operation.
- Check the Flush Valve: Ensure there is a rubber seal at the bottom.
- Position the Tank: Place it carefully on the bowl aligning mounting holes.
- Install bolts and Washers: Put through the tank’s bottom into the bowl.
- Tighten Everything: Use a screwdriver; don’t over tighten lest it cracks.
This phase calls for precision. Here is some useful information pertaining to installing sewer lines.
Next, you’ll need to connect your supply line. This provides water flow to your toilet system.
- Cut PVC Pipe correctly: To avoid mistakes, make sure you’ve measured accurately.
- Lay down New PVC Line: The line should go three feet underground.
- Bond it Well: Cement both ends firmly for a secure fit.
- Maintain Line Grading: The slope should ensure optimal waste flow towards the septic system.
The tank and supply line installation demands careful attention but will reward you with flawless toilet operation.
Choosing the Toilet: A Buying Guide
What types of toilet models are available?
One-Piece and Two-Piece Toilets
You will find two main types of toilets; one-piece and two-piece models.
The two-piece toilet is less expensive. However, its separate tank needs bolting to the bowl.
A one-piece toilet has fewer surfaces making it easier to clean, but it’s pricier.
Wall-Mounted Toilets
An innovative yet costly option is the wall-mounted toilet.
This requires changes to your plumbing system.
What should you consider when installing a toilet?
Rough-in Size Measurement
The rough-in size is a key measurement for proper toilet installation.
This is the distance between the drainpipe’s center and the wall behind the toilet.
You must ensure your toilet’s base fits this measurement.
Tank Capacity and Flushing Systems
Toilets have similar tank capacities but offer different flushing systems.
High-efficiency toilets (HETs) use less water conserving resources.
WaterSense-labeled toilets are efficient too, using 20% less water with optimal flushing performance.
Toilet Styles
If your preference leans towards water-efficiency or personal hygiene, there are urinals and bidets respectively.
Urinals are wall-mounted and suited for commercial settings due to their efficiency.
Bidets focus on personal cleansing. You can have one as a separate fixture or integrated into the toilet seat.
Existing toilets can be enhanced with bidet attachments or bidet toilet seats, not requiring additional space.
Considerations for Toilet Selection
To select a suitable toilet, consider your space constraints, water usage concerns, and flushing mechanisms.
Your need for functionality might lead you towards bidets, urinal or Wall-Mounted Choices.
The rough-in size will determine how well the toilet fits in your bathroom. Picking a WaterSense-labeled unit supports water conservation efforts.
Finishing Touches After Installation
After the toilet installation, various finishing touches are imminent. These steps aren’t hidden-virtually all occur within domestic living spaces.
Underlayment Placement
Your subfloor will require an underlayment for protection. This may be tar paper, plastic sheets, particle board, or a concrete wonder board for tiles.
HVAC Installation
The HVAC contractor will mount the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning unit, vents, and air ducts. Distinct based on house design and a number of storeys.
Final Electrical Setup
The electrician returns next to install light fixtures, wall outlets, and switches. They also attach cover plates—a task quite straightforward and effortless.
Kitchen and Bathroom Fixtures
The cabinet company fixes kitchen cabinets while a plumber installs sinks, toilets, and faucets. These are essentially attached to wall studs.
Service Connection and Wall Trimming
Once fixtures are installed, municipal lines or private systems for water and sewage get hooked up. Afterward, interior doors are mounted with matching trimmings.
Paint Job And Floor Finishing
The house is then painted and wallpapered before carpeting or tiling the floor. You want your home to look as perfect as possible!
Punch List Review
Last step: the builder compiles a ‘punch list’ noting potential issues requiring resolution. Respective contractors address these listed concerns for that ideal finish.
Your DIY Plumbing
While it’s not mandatory to hire a plumber for toilet installation, it may save you time and potential hassle. You need to consider your comfort and proficiency with DIY tasks.
If you’re unsure or uncomfortable with the process, hiring a professional is advisable. They have the expertise to ensure a proper, water-tight installation. Safety and efficiency are key.
The choice is yours depending on your skill level, budget, and preference for professional assurance. Whether you install a toilet yourself or hire a plumber, make your decision wisely.
