The delicate art of replacing a toilet without breaking the porcelain
In short: Replacing a toilet is a common home improvement task, but it requires more than just brute force. From managing residual water to the precision of bolt tension, plumbing expert Richard Trethewey reveals the specific sequence needed to ensure a leak-free, professional installation.
The process begins with isolation and drainage. Before any mechanical work can occur, the water supply must be shut off via the valve, typically located to the left of the fixture. Once the supply is severed, the tank must be emptied by flushing and manually removing any remaining water using a sponge and bucket. This prevents messy overflows during the disassembly of the water hose connection, which can often be loosened by hand.
The structural removal involves loosening the closet bolts on both sides of the toilet using an open-ended adjustable wrench. Once the nuts and washers are removed, the toilet must be lifted straight up. To protect the surrounding flooring, it is essential to place the unit on a drop cloth or a piece of plywood. A critical, often overlooked step is the inspection of the closet flange; if the flange is broken, it must be replaced to ensure a proper seal.
Reinstallation relies on a new wax ring and carefully positioned hardware. Using new closet bolts—ideally those featuring plastic tabs to hold them in place—the new wax ring is applied to the flange. As the toilet is pressed into the wax, the base must be secured with washers and nuts. Precision is vital here: using the adjustable wrench, one should alternate between sides to tighten the bolts, being careful not to overtighten, which can crack the porcelain. Finally, any excess bolt length can be trimmed with a mini hacksaw, allowing the decorative cap to snap into place.
Success in this task is found in the details, from the cleanliness of the flange to the controlled tension of the hardware. All necessary tools, including the wrench, sponge, and bucket, are standard items available at plumbing supply stores or home centers.
Opens the Intellect+ feed with this card first. Swipe up for the next one.
Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: How to Change a Toilet | Ask This Old House
To cite this card, link to https://intellectplus.co.uk/app/society-how-to-change-a-toilet-ask-this-old-house.
How we source, check and correct cards: Editorial standards.
General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.
Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?
Related
More in DIY & home improvement · More in Society · Latest · A–Z · All topics
