Installing a new toilet is one of the most popular yet necessary home renovation tasks. Whether you are replacing an old, outdated one or upgrading to something newer, such as a TOTO toilet, it is crucial to do the right things to have a smooth and successful installation. The process is simple enough, but a small error can result in leaks, faulty function, or suboptimal finish. Knowing the key dos and don’ts of installing a toilet will save you money, time, and frustration.
Do’s for a Successful Toilet Installation
- Do Measure Your Space Carefully
Measure the area where the new toilet will be installed before buying it. Toilets are of many different shapes and sizes, and it is, therefore, essential to have the exact sizes of your bathroom and the rough-in measurement (the wall center to the middle of the drain pipe) known. This ensures that the new toilet will fit into place correctly and perform as well as expected. As an illustration, if you’re installing a TOTO toilet, ensure it conforms to your bathroom’s unique rough-in size and clearance expectations.
- Do Use Quality Materials
Always install the best-quality material for your installation, ranging from the wax ring to bolts and screws. Substandard wax rings can lead to leaks, whereas rusted or low-cost bolts can lead the toilet to become loose or shift after a period of time. Use a good-quality, heavy-duty wax ring with a tight seal between the toilet and drain pipe. Also, install stainless steel bolts to resist rust.
- Do Turn Off the Water Supply
Always turn off the water supply to the toilet before you begin. This will keep water from spilling everywhere in the bathroom during installation. The shutoff valve is usually found at the base of the toilet or on the back wall behind it. Make sure to drain the tank and bowl fully before you start taking things apart.
- Do Ensure the Toilet Is Level
A toilet that isn’t level will be uncomfortable and may cause leaks over time. After installing the toilet, use a level to check that it sits evenly on the floor. If the toilet rocks slightly use shims underneath the base until they are perfectly balanced. This is a simple but essential step for proper installation.
- Do Follow Manufacturer’s Instructions
Every toilet model has special installation instructions. Follow these instructions word by word, particularly for advanced models such as the TOTO Aquia dual-flush toilet, which can need special assembly or care. Manufacturers provide suggestions and guidelines that make the toilet function as required and also help it last longer.
Don’ts for a Successful Toilet Installation
- Don’t Skip the Wax Ring Replacement
When replacing your toilet, always replace the wax ring. The old wax ring may have deteriorated over time, and reusing it can lead to leaks or an improper seal. A fresh, high-quality wax ring is essential for preventing water damage and ensuring the toilet stays firmly in place.
- Don’t Overtighten the Toilet Bolts
While securing the toilet to the floor is crucial, overdoing it by tightening the bolts may cause the porcelain to crack. Tighten the bolts slowly but not excessively. The toilet has to be seated snugly on the floor but not so tight that you might damage the base. When you find that the toilet keeps moving after you have tightened the bolts, think about loosening them instead of continuing to tighten them.
- Don’t Neglect the Toilet’s Flushing Mechanism
A toilet’s flushing system is crucial to its proper operation. Before completing the installation, check that the flush system operates effectively. This is especially necessary for toilets such as the TOTO Aquia, which employs a dual-flush system. Pre-testing the flush before finishing the installation saves time and possible trouble.
- Don’t Forget to Test for Leaks
After the installation, always check the toilet for any leaks before you can consider the work done. Turn the water supply on, refill the tank, and flush several times. Check the base and the connection areas for leaks. If water accumulates at the base, you can re-seal the wax ring or tighten the bolts.
- Don’t Ignore Floor Condition
Ensure the floor beneath the toilet is even and stable before installation. If the floor is damaged, such as rot or unevenness, this must be repaired before installing the new toilet. A misaligned or uneven floor will result in misalignment, which can result in leaks and an unstable toilet in the long run.
Conclusion
A successful toilet installation demands care and attention to detail. By following these do’s and don’ts, you ensure that your toilet installation, be it a standard one or something high-tech, will work smoothly and last long. Don’t hurry through the process—taking your time to go through each step will result in a cleaner, more efficient installation that will last for years.
