3 Factors To Consider During New Toilet Installation

A proper toilet installation is crucial for maintaining the functionality and aesthetics of your bathroom. One of the many concerns is ensuring that the building is done correctly to prevent future issues, which includes having a working toilet.

Each step of toilet plumbing installation requires careful consideration, from measurements and choosing the right toilet type to understanding plumbing needs and installation requirements. Ignoring any of these factors can lead to inconveniences, inefficiencies, and costly repairs down the line.

A successful and trouble-free installation of a new toilet requires considering critical factors, even though it may seem straightforward. In this guide, we will explore three key factors that can significantly impact the outcome of your toilet installation. By paying close attention to these aspects, you can achieve a smooth and efficient installation process while optimising the functionality and aesthetics of your bathroom.

Factor 1 – Measurement and Space Considerations

Accurate measurements and thorough space consideration are fundamental to a successful toilet installation. Overlooking proper measurements and space requirements can lead to installing a misfit in a toilet, making your bathroom uncomfortable and challenging.

Measuring the Available Space

Before initiating the toilet installation, measure the space available in your bathroom. Begin by measuring the distance from the wall opposite end to the centre of the existing drainpipe. This measurement is essential for determining the toilet’s rough-in size, ensuring the new toilet fits perfectly in your bathroom.

Next, measure the distance from the bowl on the floor to the flange. The toilet secures to the fitting on the bathroom floor, known as the toilet flange. Accurate measurements from the bowl on the floor to the flange will ensure that the toilet bowl is at the correct height, allowing for proper drainage and comfortable seating.

Clearances and Accessibility

Apart from rough-in measurements, consider clearances around the whole toilet bowl. Adequate support is crucial for easy access, cleaning, and maintenance. Ensure enough space before the entire toilet bowl to sit and stand up comfortably. Also, maintain sufficient clearance on the finished floor and sides to allow easy maneuvering.

Accessibility is paramount, especially for individuals with mobility challenges. Consider the needs of all potential users and make necessary adjustments to provide a convenient and inclusive bathroom experience.

Proper measurements and careful consideration of space ensure that the new toilet fits seamlessly into the rest of your bathroom, promoting functionality and comfort. Taking the time to measure accurately will save you from potential installation problems and enhance the overall usability of new toilets in your bathroom.

Factor 2 – Choosing the Right Toilet Type

Selecting the appropriate toilet tank type ensures a successful and functional installation. Various toilet types are available on the market for many homeowners, each offering unique features and advantages. Your choice of toilet tank should align with your bathroom design, space, water efficiency preferences, and comfort requirements.

Toilet Types Overview

1. Standard toilets: These are the most common and traditional toilet models. They are typically cost-effective and come in various designs and styles.
2. Comfort height toilets: Also known as “chair height” toilets, these models are taller than standard toilets, making them more accessible and comfortable, especially for taller individuals and those with mobility issues.
3. Wall-mounted toilets: These toilets are mounted directly on the wall and provide a sleek and modern look, making them ideal for bathrooms with limited space.
4. Corner toilets: Designed to fit into corners, these toilets are space-saving and perfect for smaller bathrooms or odd-shaped spaces.
5. Smart toilets: These are advanced toilets with bidets, heated seats, automatic flushing, and customisable settings for an enhanced bathroom experience.

Factors Affecting Toilet Choice

When choosing a toilet type, consider the following factors:

1. Bathroom design and space: Select a toilet that complements your bathroom’s design and fits comfortably within the available space.
2. Water efficiency: Opt for water-saving toilets designed to use less water per flush, helping you save on water bills and contribute to environmental conservation.
3. Comfort and accessibility: Choose a comfortable toilet for all users, considering the height and seat shape.
4. Maintenance and cleaning: Consider the ease of maintenance and cleaning for different toilet types. Wall-mounted toilets, for example, can be more accessible to clean due to their elevated design.
5. Budget: Assess your budget and choose a toilet type that meets your financial constraints while delivering the desired features and functionality.

By understanding the various toilet types and considering these essential factors, you can make an informed decision on the type of toilet that best fits your needs and preferences. This careful selection will contribute to a successful toilet installation and a bathroom that meets your expectations in style and functionality.

Factor 3 – Plumbing and Installation Requirements

Understanding the plumbing needs and installation requirements associated with installing a new toilet is crucial to ensure a smooth and successful installation process.

Proper consideration of plumbing and installation requirements for most new toilets will prevent potential leaks, ensure the toilet operates optimally, and contribute to the longevity of your bathroom fixtures.

Understanding Plumbing Needs

Different toilet types have specific plumbing requirements. It’s essential to grasp these needs before installation to avoid complications and ensure compatibility with your existing plumbing system. Some key considerations include:

1. Rough-in dimensions: Ensure that your new toilet’s rough-in dimensions match the existing plumbing’s rough-in, allowing for proper alignment and connection.
2. Drain location: Take note of the location of the existing drainpipe in your bathroom. The toilet’s trap should align with the drainpipe for effective waste removal.
3. Flange height: The height of the flange on the floor impacts the toilet’s installation. Ensure it is at the correct size for proper seal and alignment.

How Professional Plumbers Install a Toilet

Professional plumbers follow a specific set of steps to install a toilet properly. Here’s a general overview of how a professional plumber would install a toilet:

Tools and Materials:

• New bathroom (bowl and tank)
• Wax ring
• Closet bolts with nuts
• Adjustable wrench
• Screwdriver
• Hacksaw (if needed)
• Teflon tape (for threaded connections)
• Plumber’s putty (for sealing around the base)
• Level
• Bucket and sponge (for clean-up)
• Toilet seat (if not included with the toilet)

Installation Steps:

Turn off the water supply to the house or existing toilet. It is usually done by shutting off the valve behind or below the bathroom.

Remove the old toilet by disconnecting the water supply line and unscrewing the toilet bolts and the closet bolts that secure it to the floor. Be prepared for some water spillage when you remove the tank and bowl.

Scrape off any old wax ring and clean the flange hole, the circular opening on the toilet’s floor.

1. Inspect and assemble the new toilet: Check the new toilet components for any damage. Assemble the tank and bowl according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Install the wax ring: Place a new wax ring over the drain flange on the floor. The wax ring helps create a watertight seal between the toilet and the sewer pipe.
3. Set the toilet: Carefully lower and lift the toilet bowl onto the wax ring and align the mounting holes on the base with the closet bolts. Press the toilet to compress the wax ring and create a watertight seal.
4. Secure the toilet: Place washers and nuts onto the closet bolts and tighten them evenly to secure the toilet to the floor. Be careful not to overtighten the bolt, as this could crack the toilet.
5. Connect the water supply: Connect the water supply line to the fill valve on the bottom of the tank. Use Teflon tape to ensure a tight seal.
6. Turn on the water supply: Slowly turn on the water supply valve and fill the tank. Check for any leaks around the tank bolts, the base of the toilet, and the water supply connection. Tighten connections if needed.
7. Test the flush: Flush the toilet several times to ensure it flushes properly and refills correctly. Check for any leaks during this process.
8. Level and secure the toilet: Use a level to ensure the toilet is sitting evenly. If it’s not level, you may need to use shims to stabilise it. Once it’s level, secure or fix it by tightening the closet bolts if necessary.

Install the Toilet Seat:

If the toilet seat is not pre-installed, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install and replace it.

Clean Up:

Clean up any excess wax or water, and dispose of the rest of the old toilet properly.

A professional plumber will precisely perform these steps to ensure the toilet is securely installed, leaks-free, and functions correctly. If you need to become more experienced in plumbing, hiring a professional to ensure the job is done correctly and to local plumbing codes is advisable.

Contact Your Plumber for Your Toilet Installation

In summary, installing a new toilet is a significant undertaking that demands careful attention and consideration of multiple crucial factors. The triumvirate of precise measurements and space considerations, selecting the appropriate toilet type, proper maintenance, and understanding plumbing and installation requirements is pivotal for a seamless and successful toilet installation process.

Begin with precise measurements of the available space, ensuring you install a toilet that fits perfectly within your bathroom layout. Consider clearances and accessibility, guaranteeing all users a comfortable and functional bathroom space. These measurements are the foundation of a well-fitting and well-placed toilet.

Next, choose the right toilet type that aligns with your bathroom design, space constraints, water efficiency preferences, comfort needs, and budget. Each kind of old toilet offers unique benefits, and making an informed decision will lead to a toilet that complements your bathroom aesthetically and caters to your specific requirements.

In conclusion, a successful toilet installation results from thoughtful consideration and meticulous planning. Skipping or neglecting any of these critical aspects can lead to future problems and unnecessary expenses.

Therefore, carefully consider measurement, toilet type, and plumbing requirements to ensure a smooth installation meeting your functional and aesthetic expectations. A well-installed toilet enhances your bathroom’s overall functionality and appearance, providing a satisfactory and enduring investment.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.