How to Replace a Toilet
Whether you want to install a better-flushing toilet or fix the old one after a remodeling project, these tips will get you through faster.
1. Measure before you buy
When buying a new toilet, you should know the rough measurement of the old one. For most toilets, the waste pipe is centered at 12 inches from the wall. Other models range between 10 to 14 inches.
2. Fix the frozen bolts
Sometimes the old nuts that held the toilet fail to bulge. This is a result of corrosion that happens over the years. In this case, use a hacksaw blade to cut the hold-down bolds.
3. Install the toilet
Setting the toilet on new bolts can be frustrating at times. The bolts may slip and tip as you try to align then with the holes in the toilet. Every time you miss, you risk shifting or crushing the wax loop. Using the slip-on washers and bolts may help at times, but they might still allow the bolts to move. The best way out is to buy another set of washers and nuts so that you can lock the bolts in place before setting the bowl. Position the toilet then check its position and height to ensure that the bolts are in the correct position.
4. Rot-proof the shims
If your toilet rocks on an uneven floor, it will break the wax seal and leak eventually. For small gaps, fit stainless steel washers or coins. Use shims for larger gaps.
5. Sit on the toilet
After setting the toilet in place, you should squish the wax loop until the toilet settles on the flooring. Never compel the lavatory down by fastening bolts as they will crack the porcelain support. Instead, be seated on the bowl with your weight centered over the wax ring.
6. Cut the bolts
When positioning the toilet, you are likely to use extra-long bolts. That means that you have to cut the protruding ends using a hacksaw. Before doing that, connect the water line, flush the toilet severally and check for leaks. Once you are sure that everything is okay, you may cut the bolts.
