If you’re like most of us, you can probably remember the day—with perfect clarity—when you discovered your toilet was clogged. It was probably a Saturday, and maybe you were just getting home from work when you realized your bathroom needed evacuation.
Maybe it wasn’t a day like that for you. Maybe you’ve never had to deal with a clogged toilet. But we all have stories about how quickly things can go wrong with our toilets and how difficult it can be to fix them.
But what are the signs you should look for? How do you know it’s time to install a new toilet? And how to install a new toilet?
In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about installing a new toilet by yourself and when it’s time to call a professional plumber in Calgary!
Signs to Know When to Replace a Toilet
The toilet is an important aspect of your home. It’s literally where you go to the bathroom and discard your waste. It’s a place where you can escape all your troubles and just relax.
But what if your toilet was causing some of those troubles? What if it was making you sick? Maybe it’s time for a new toilet!
If you’re having trouble figuring out when to replace your old toilet, these signs will help you figure out when it’s time for a replacement and how to choose a new one!
- Constant Repairs
If your toilet has been taking too many trips to the repair shop and coming back with a new leak or crack, it might be time to consider a replacement.
- Cracks or Leaks
If you notice that any part of your toilet—from the tank to the bowl—has any cracks at all, or if water leaks from anywhere in the system, this can indicate that your toilet needs replacing.
- Age
If your toilet is over 10 years old, it may be time for a replacement. Older toilets often don’t flush as well as newer models, which makes them inefficient and potentially unsafe. They also use more water than newer models. If your toilet does not meet any of these criteria, you can probably continue using it for another few years before replacing it with a newer model.
- Inefficient Flush
If your toilet frequently clogs or needs multiple flushes to get rid of waste, this could be an indication that it’s time for a new one! The more times you have to flush the toilet, the more water and energy will be used in the process—which means higher utility bills every month!
- Wobbling or Instability
If your toilet is wobbly or unstable, this could mean that it’s not properly installed. If you have an older model, this could also mean that the bolts holding the toilet in place have loosened over time. If you think this may be an issue for you, consider calling a plumber to check out the installation process or replace your toilet altogether.
- Outdated Design or Style
The design and style of toilets are constantly evolving—and they should! As we learn more about how best to maintain our comfort, safety, and health while using the restroom, we can incorporate these improvements into our designs. That being said… If your current toilet’s style is outdated but still works just fine… don’t feel like you need to rush out and buy something new just because it looks different.
- Hard-to-Find Parts
If you’re having a hard time finding replacement parts for your toilet, then chances are it’s time to buy a new one. This could be indicative of a design flaw or material defect that will make it difficult to find replacements when they break down. While this may not be an immediate cause for concern, it’s something worth watching.
- Uncomfortable or Unstable
If you constantly feel uncomfortable or unstable while sitting on the toilet, it’s probably time to consider replacing your current unit. The best way to test this is by sitting on the toilet and feeling how stable it is. If you feel like your toilet could give out at any moment, then it’s probably time to replace it.
Tools You Will Need For New Toilet Installation
The tools typically needed for installing a toilet include:
- Adjustable wrench
- Screwdriver (flathead and/or Phillips head)
- Putty knife or scraper
- Plunger
- Bucket or towels (to catch water and for cleanup)
- Level (to ensure the toilet is aligned correctly)
- A toilet seat (optional but recommended)
- A toilet bowl brush (also optional)
- A toilet installation kit
Quick Toilet Installation Hacks
If you’ve ever had to install a toilet, you know that it’s not exactly the most exciting DIY project. It can be intimidating, especially if you’ve never done it before.
But don’t worry—we’re here to help! With these quick hacks, we’ll show you how to install a toilet in under an hour.
- Gather the necessary tools and materials
If you’re planning to install a new toilet, you need to gather all of the tools and materials that you will need. This includes a new toilet, a wrench, a roll of Teflon tape, and an adjustable wrench. Ensure that you have enough space in your home for the installation process.
- Turn off the water supply
Before starting this project, it is important to turn off the water supply to your toilet. This will ensure no water leaks during installation or later use.
- Empty the tank and bowl
Before installing a new toilet, you need to ensure the old one is empty. This means removing any water from the tank and bowl.
- Remove the old toilet
Once your tank and bowl are empty, it’s time to remove your old toilet! You may want to consider calling in a professional for this step—getting everything out of place just right can be tricky, so having some help is always a good idea.
- Prepare the Flange
You’re going to need a few tools for this step. You’ll need a hammer and chisel, some duct tape, a plumber’s putty, a wrench, a screwdriver, and an adjustable wrench.
First, you’ll want to make sure that the area around your toilet is clean and dry. Once that’s done, use the chisel to remove any excess wax from the flange. Then apply the plumber’s putty around your flange’s edge and seal it with duct tape. This will help prevent leaks when installing your new toilet seat.
- Install the new wax ring
This is easy: just slip it into place over your flange and let it sit there. The wax will melt onto your flange and help secure everything in place while you install your toilet bowl and tank.
- Position the new toilet
Place the toilet in position and mark the mounting bolt positions through the holes in the floor flange.
- Attach the toilet
Remove the old wax ring from the flange and discard it. Apply a new wax ring to the flange, if necessary. Align the bolt holes with those in the floor flange, then screw bolts into place with a wrench.
- Connect the water supply
Install a new supply line from the shut-off valve to the fill valve on the bottom of the tank. Hand-tighten the coupling nut, and then give it an extra quarter-turn using pliers.
- Turn on the water supply
Slowly turn the water supply valve on and check for any leaks around the connections. Adjust the nuts if necessary.
- Test the flush
Flush the toilet a few times to check for proper water flow and drainage. Make any adjustments to the fill valve or flush mechanism if needed.
- Caulk around the base (optional)
Apply a thin bead of caulk around the base of the toilet to create a watertight seal. This step is optional but can help with aesthetics and preventing water damage.
DIY Toilet Installation Vs. Professional Toilet Installation
When it comes to toilet installation, you’ve got two options: DIY or professional. But which one is right for you? Here’s a comparison chart highlighting the differences between DIY toilet installation and professional toilet installation:
| Aspect | DIY Toilet Installation | Professional Toilet Installation |
| Cost | Generally, lower cost primarily involves purchasing the toilet and necessary tools. | Higher cost due to labor charges and potential additional services. |
| Skill Level | Requires basic plumbing knowledge and DIY skills. | Professional plumbers have expertise and experience in toilet installation. |
| Time | It may take longer as you learn and perform the installation yourself. | Typically faster as professionals are trained and have the necessary tools. |
| Convenience | It provides flexibility in terms of scheduling and completing the installation at your own pace. | Professionals handle the entire installation process, saving you time and effort. |
| Expertise and Accuracy | It relies on your own knowledge and skill, which may result in errors or complications. | Professionals have the necessary expertise to ensure accurate installation. |
| Code Compliance | You need to research and ensure compliance with local building codes and regulations. | Professionals are well-versed in local codes and ensure compliance. |
| Warranty and Guarantee | Limited or no warranties/guarantees on the installation. | Professionals may offer warranties/guarantees on their work. |
| Potential Risks | Higher risk of making mistakes that could lead to leaks, improper sealing, or damage. | Lower risk as professionals has the knowledge to mitigate potential issues. |
| Additional Services | Limited to basic installation; additional plumbing work or repairs may require separate expertise. | Professionals can handle additional services and address any plumbing issues that arise. |
Ultimately, the decision between DIY toilet installation and professional installation depends on your comfort level, expertise, and the complexity of the installation. If you have plumbing knowledge and feel confident in your abilities, DIY installation can be a cost-effective option. However, for a hassle-free and professionally executed installation, hiring a licensed plumber is advisable.
FAQs
How long after installation can a toilet be used?
After installing a toilet, it can typically be used immediately. Once the toilet is securely installed and the water supply is turned on, it is ready for use. However, it’s important to note that the wax ring used to create a seal between the toilet and the flange may take some time to compress fully and form a tight seal. It is recommended to wait at least 24 hours before heavy use or flushing multiple times in quick succession to allow the wax ring to settle properly and ensure a reliable seal. This waiting period helps to minimize the risk of leaks or damage.
How much does it cost to install a new toilet?
The cost to install a new toilet can vary widely depending on where you live and the type of toilet you choose. In general, though, you can expect to pay between $150 and $300 for installation if you hire a professional plumber for New Toilet Installation and Plumbing Services in Calgary. Some toilets are easier to install than others, so this number could be much higher if you need a more complicated model installed.
Are there any specific considerations for toilet installation in a bathroom with tile flooring?
Yes! If you decide to install a toilet in your bathroom with tile flooring, there are definitely some considerations.
First of all, unless you plan on installing new tile, you’ll need to ensure that the toilet will fit in the space where you want it—which means measuring the height and width of the area where you want it installed.
Next, if your bathroom has a shower or tub, think about whether or not there will be enough room for them both. You’ll also want to think about how much space is left over after installation and what that means for your bathroom layout.
Finally, you should always consider how much water will be used when flushing toilets and how much energy is needed to heat that water. This will also affect how often you need to clean out your pipes (and how much time that takes!). If you don’t want to stress about this, hiring a professional toilet installation plumber in Calgary is best.
Ready to Install a New Toilet? Call ClearView Services!
When you need a new toilet, you need it done right. The last thing you want is to have to deal with a plumbing issue again. That’s why we’re here: to make sure you never have to worry about your toilet again.
ClearView Services is your one-stop shop for all things plumbing, and we’ve got years of experience helping people like you get the job done right. ClearView Services will help you install a new toilet that works for you and your space—and we’ll even do the plumbing work to make sure everything is connected properly and safely.
We’ve been providing quality plumbing services in Calgary since 1996, and we’re dedicated to making sure that you get the best service possible. Our Calgary plumbers are licensed, insured, and bonded. We offer 24/7 emergency service, and we only use top-quality materials that are guaranteed to last. We offer plumbing services in Calgary and surrounding areas, including:
- New Toilet Installation
- Leak Detection and Repair
- Drain Cleaning and Snaking
- Water Heater Repair and Replacement
- Sump Pump Maintenance
- Sewer Backup Cleaning
We have extensive experience doing plumbing and toilet installations throughout Calgary, so we know exactly what it takes to get the job done right. When you choose ClearView Services for your toilet installation needs, you’ll be working with an experienced team that understands how important it is for you to have peace of mind when it comes time for us to handle your project.
If you’re looking for a new toilet installation or plumbing service in Calgary, call us today at 587-912-1432!
