Plumbers Are for the Weak! You Can Replace Your Own Toilet With These 5 Simple Steps

1/19/2022 (Permalink)

A leaking toilet can cause damage to your property.

Five Steps To Replace a Toilet

Whether you're dealing with a leaking toilet or you simply found a toilet with crazy features at your local hardware store that you just could not live without, you may wonder how much it will cost you to have a Mariemount, OH, plumber come in to make the swap for you. Depending on your capabilities, resourcefulness and level of confidence this may be an unnecessary concern. You can replace your toilet five simple steps.

1. Sever the Water Supply

Whether you're making a toilet repair or swapping out an old toilet with a new one, you need to be sure to cut the water supply. Once the supply line is disconnected, flush and drain the tank.

2. Detach the Wax Seal

Use a wrench to loosen the bolts holding the toilet, then take a pocket knife or other sharp object and cut the caulk seal surrounding the base of the toilet. Remove the toilet gently. Use a putty knife to remove the wax seal.

3. Caulk the New Base

This step can help you prevent a future leaking toilet, as caulk serves to eliminate gaps between the wax ring and toilet base. It also helps make installation easier.

4. Install a New Wax Ring

You do not want to reuse a wax ring. Place a new one where the old was, and then lift the new toilet into place. Do not press down, as the weight of the fixture will compress the seal itself.

5. Tighten the Bolts

Once the toilet is in place, place a washer over the bolts and tighten the nuts by hand. You can use a large screwdriver or wrench to finish the job. Be careful to not overtighten, as it will crack the ceramic.

If your leaking toilet was leaking for a while, you may want to call in a Mariemount, OH, water damage restoration team to ensure there is no extensive water damage. Failure to properly clean water damage can result in costly issues in the future.