Installing a toilet may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and a few simple steps, you can conquer this home improvement project with confidence. The key to a successful toilet installation lies in meticulous preparation and careful execution. Whether you’re replacing an existing toilet or installing one in a new bathroom, understanding the process and having the necessary equipment will ensure a leak-free, stable, and functional throne for your daily routine.
Before you begin the installation, it’s crucial to gather the essential tools and materials. You’ll need a new toilet, a toilet flange, a wax ring, a toilet seat, a wrench, a screwdriver, a level, and a tape measure. Additionally, if your floor is not level, you may require a toilet shims kit. Once you have everything you need, clear the area around the toilet and turn off the water supply valve connected to the toilet. Flush the toilet to drain the remaining water, and disconnect the water supply line from the tank.
Next, carefully remove the old toilet by unbolting it from the floor and lifting it away. Clean the toilet flange thoroughly, removing any old wax or debris. Apply a new wax ring to the flange, ensuring it is centered properly. Position the new toilet over the flange, wiggle it gently to ensure a good seal, and tighten the bolts securely. Reconnect the water supply line to the tank, turn on the water supply, and check for leaks. Finally, install the toilet seat and level the toilet using a level and shims if necessary. With these steps, you’ll have a securely mounted toilet that will provide years of trouble-free use.
Preparing the Toilet Base
Installing a toilet requires precise and thorough preparation of the toilet base. This step ensures that the toilet will sit securely and function properly. Here’s a detailed guide to preparing the toilet base:
1. Clean the Subfloor:
Before any work is done, clean the subfloor thoroughly to remove debris, dirt, or uneven surfaces. This will provide a solid foundation for the toilet base to rest on.
2. Check Floor Levelness:
Place a level on the subfloor to check its levelness. If the floor is uneven, use a leveling compound or shims to create a flat surface. A level base will ensure proper water drainage from the toilet bowl.
3. Determine Flange Location:
Locate the flange, which is a flange-shaped piece of metal or plastic that connects the toilet to the drainpipe. The flange should be centered and secured to the subfloor with bolts or screws. If the flange is not properly positioned or damaged, it may need to be replaced or adjusted.
4. Install the Wax Ring:
The wax ring is a seal that prevents leaks between the toilet base and the flange. Place the wax ring on the flange, ensuring that the horn of the ring points toward the toilet drain. The wax ring should be centered and firmly pressed down.
5. Tighten the Toilet Bolts:
The toilet bolts are used to secure the toilet base to the flange. Insert the bolts through the holes in the toilet base and hand-tighten them into the flange nuts. Do not overtighten the bolts, as this can crack the toilet base.
Marking the Base Location
Before mounting the toilet, it’s essential to determine its exact placement on the bathroom floor. Follow these steps to mark the base location accurately:
1. Measure the Distance from the Wall
Using a measuring tape, measure the distance from the finished wall to the center of the toilet flange, which is typically 12 inches. Mark this point on the floor using a pencil or chalk.
2. Determine the Front and Back Edges of the Toilet Base
Place the toilet base on the marked point, ensuring that the flange is centered within the base opening. Draw a line around the perimeter of the base on the floor, representing the front and back edges of the toilet.
3. Mark the Bolt Holes
Locate the two bolt holes on the toilet base. Using a pencil or awl, mark their positions on the floor through the base. These marks indicate where you will need to drill holes for the toilet bolts.
4. Check the Level
Once the base location is marked, use a level to check that the front and back edges of the base are level. This ensures that the toilet will be stable and not tilt forward or backward.
| Measurement | Description |
|---|---|
| 12 inches | Distance from finished wall to center of toilet flange |
| Front and Back Edges | Marked lines around perimeter of toilet base |
| Bolt Holes | Marks on floor indicating locations for drilling toilet bolt holes |
Installing the Toilet Bolts
Position the Bolts in the Base
Locate the two flange holes on the floor. Drop the toilet bolts through the flange holes and into the toilet base. Make sure that the bolt heads are facing the front of the toilet.
Install the Washers and Nuts
Place a washer over each bolt. Then, thread a nut onto each bolt and tighten it by hand. Do not overtighten the nuts as this can crack the toilet base.
Level the Toilet
Set the toilet on the flange, aligning the bolts with the holes in the base. Rock the toilet back and forth slightly to ensure that the base is level. Use a level to check the toilet from side to side and front to back. Adjust the nuts as necessary to level the toilet.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Toilet bolts | Secure the toilet to the flange |
| Washers | Create a seal between the toilet base and the flange |
| Nuts | Tighten the toilet bolts |
| Level | Ensure that the toilet is level |
Placing the Toilet Wax Ring
The wax ring is a crucial component that ensures a watertight seal between the toilet base and the drain flange. To install it correctly, follow these steps:
1. Clean the Toilet Base and Drain Flange
Thoroughly clean the bottom of the toilet base and the drain flange using a damp cloth to remove any debris.
2. Position the Toilet Wax Ring
Place the wax ring on the drain flange, centering it over the flange. Make sure the wax ring is facing the correct direction, with the tapered side facing the toilet.
3. Seal the Wax Ring to the Drain Flange
Firmly press the wax ring into the drain flange, ensuring that it completely covers the flange and creates a watertight seal. If necessary, use a putty knife or screwdriver to smooth out any wrinkles or gaps in the wax.
4. Advanced Techniques for Ensuring a Watertight Seal
| Technique | Description |
|---|---|
| Double Wax Ring: | Using two wax rings provides extra protection against leaks. |
| Bolted Wax Ring: | The wax ring is secured with bolts that tighten the ring against the toilet base and drain flange. |
| Pipe Joint Compound: | Applying pipe joint compound around the wax ring’s base can enhance the seal. |
| Silicone Sealant: | A thin bead of silicone sealant around the base of the toilet can provide an additional layer of protection. |
Setting the Toilet in Place
5. Secure the Toilet to the Floor:
This crucial step ensures the toilet’s stability and prevents it from wobbling or shifting. Begin by applying a liberal amount of plumber’s putty to the base of the toilet flange. Gently lower the toilet over the flange, aligning the bolt holes with the slots.
- Tighten the Bolts:
- Check for Level:
- Apply Caulk:
- Secure the Bolts:
- Cover the Bolts:
Insert the bolts into the holes and hand-tighten the nuts to secure the toilet to the flange. Don’t overtighten, as this can crack the porcelain.
Use a level to ensure the toilet is level from front-to-back and side-to-side. Adjust the bolts as needed to achieve a level surface.
Apply a bead of silicone caulk around the base of the toilet where it meets the floor. This will seal any gaps and prevent water from leaking.
Use a wrench to snugly tighten the nuts on the bolts. Avoid excessive force to prevent damage to the toilet or flange.
Install decorative caps over the bolts to hide the hardware and enhance the appearance of your toilet.
Aligning and Leveling the Toilet
Once the toilet flange is secured, it’s time to align and level the toilet bowl before tightening the bolts. Follow these steps:
1. Position the Toilet Bowl
Carefully lift the toilet bowl onto the flange and align the bolt holes. Make sure the bowl is centered and square with the wall.
2. Install the Washers and Bolts
Place a washer on each bolt and insert them through the flange and toilet base. Hand-tighten the bolts until they are snug.
3. Level the Toilet Side-to-Side
Use a level to check the toilet from side to side. Place the level on the rim of the bowl and adjust the bolts until it is level.
4. Level the Toilet Front-to-Back
Repeat the leveling process for the front and back of the toilet. Place the level on the tank lid and adjust the bolts until it is level.
5. Tighten the Bolts
Once the toilet is level in both directions, use a wrench to tighten the bolts securely. Do not overtighten, as this can crack the toilet base.
6. Seal Around the Base
To prevent leaks, apply a bead of plumber’s putty or a silicone sealant around the base of the toilet where it meets the floor. Smooth the sealant with a putty knife or your finger.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Level | Check the toilet’s levelness |
| Wrench | Tighten the toilet bolts |
| Plumber’s putty or silicone sealant | Seal around the toilet base |
Tightening the Toilet Bolts
Once the toilet is in place, it’s time to tighten the bolts. This step is essential to ensure that the toilet is secure and won’t wobble or leak.
Tools you’ll need:
| Wrench |
|---|
| Screwdriver |
Steps:
- Place a washer on each bolt.
- Thread the bolts into the nuts that are attached to the toilet flange.
- Tighten the bolts until they are snug. Do not overtighten, as this can crack the toilet bowl.
- Check the toilet for stability. It should not wobble or rock.
- If the toilet is stable, you can now proceed to the next step.
- If the toilet is not stable, you may need to adjust the bolts or the wax ring.
- Detailed instructions for adjusting the bolts:
- Use a wrench to loosen the nuts on the bolts.
- Rotate the bolts clockwise or counterclockwise to adjust the position of the toilet.
- Tighten the nuts until the toilet is stable.
- Check the toilet again for stability.
Connecting the Toilet Supply Line
Once the toilet is secured to the floor, it’s time to connect the supply line. This line provides water to the toilet tank, which is necessary for flushing and maintaining water levels.
Materials you’ll need:
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Toilet supply line | 1 |
| Flex washer | 2 |
| Adjustable wrench or pliers | 1 |
Steps:
1. Turn off the water supply to the toilet.
2. Disconnect the old supply line by loosening the nuts at both ends.
3. Replace the flex washers on the new supply line. These washers create a watertight seal between the line and the toilet and the water shut-off valve.
4. Screw the supply line onto the toilet’s fill valve. Tighten the nut securely, but avoid overtightening.
5. Connect the other end of the supply line to the water shut-off valve. Again, tighten the nut securely but avoid overtightening.
6. Turn on the water supply and check for leaks. Tighten any loose connections if necessary.
7. Flush the toilet to ensure it’s working properly.
8. The toilet supply line typically has a ballcock valve that is responsible for filling the tank with water. The ballcock has an adjustable float that controls the water level. To adjust the float, simply bend it up or down as needed. If the water level is too low, the toilet may not flush properly. If it’s too high, the toilet may overflow. Adjusting the float may take some trial and error to get it just right.
Flushing and Checking for Leaks
Step 9: Flushing and Checking for Leaks
- Once the wax ring is evenly compressed, gently push the toilet onto the bolts. Avoid rocking the toilet as you tighten the nuts.
- Hand-tighten the nuts onto the bolts until they are snug. Do not overtighten, as this could crack the porcelain base of the toilet.
- Connect the water supply line to the toilet’s fill valve. Ensure that the connection is secure and there are no kinks in the line.
- Turn on the water supply and allow the toilet to fill. Check for leaks around the base of the toilet and the water supply connection.
- Flush the toilet a few times to ensure that the flushing mechanism is working properly.
- If there are any leaks, tighten the nuts further until the leaks stop.
- If the leaks persist, check the wax ring for proper compression. You may need to remove the toilet and reinstall it with a new wax ring.
- Allow the silicone caulk around the base of the toilet to dry completely before using the toilet.
- Check for leaks periodically after installing the toilet to ensure that everything is functioning properly.
| Tools/Materials Needed | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Toilet | Gently push the toilet onto the bolts. |
| Nuts | Hand-tighten the nuts onto the bolts. |
| Water supply line | Connect the water supply line to the toilet’s fill valve. |
| Silicone caulk | Allow the silicone caulk around the base of the toilet to dry completely. |
Cleaning Up and Finishing Touches
1. Clean the Toilet Base
Wipe down the exterior of the toilet base to remove any debris or dirt. Use a damp cloth or sponge and a mild detergent.
2. Install the Toilet Seat
Align the toilet seat with the base and insert the bolts into the holes. Tighten the nuts until the seat is secure.
3. Install the Toilet Lid
Place the toilet lid on the hinges and press down until it clicks into place.
4. Caulk the Base
Apply a bead of caulk around the base of the toilet, where it meets the floor. This will prevent water leakage.
5. Check for Leaks
Turn on the water supply and flush the toilet a few times. Check for any water leaks around the base, the supply line, or the tank.
6. Clean the Exterior
Wipe down the entire exterior of the toilet with a damp cloth or sponge and a mild detergent.
7. Remove Any Excess Caulk
Use a utility knife or a damp cloth to remove any excess caulk that has squeezed out around the base.
8. Scrub the Toilet Brush Holder
If the toilet brush holder is discolored or has mineral deposits, scrub it with a soft brush and a mild detergent.
9. Replace the Toilet Paper Holder
If the toilet paper holder was removed during the installation, reattach it to the wall.
10. Finishing Touches
To add a personal touch to your bathroom, consider adding a decorative toilet seat cover, a rug, or a piece of wall art.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Toilet Seat | Select a toilet seat that matches the style of your bathroom and is comfortable to sit on. |
| Toilet Lid | Choose a toilet lid that complements the seat and protects it from dust and debris. |
| Caulk | Use a high-quality caulk that is resistant to water and mildew. |
| Toilet Brush Holder | Keep your toilet brush clean and organized with a decorative brush holder. |
| Toilet Paper Holder | Choose a toilet paper holder that is both functional and stylish. |
How to Mount a Toilet
Mounting a toilet is a relatively simple plumbing task that can be completed in a few hours. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can ensure that your toilet is securely and properly installed.
- Gather your tools and materials. You will need a toilet, a toilet flange, a wax ring, a toilet seat, and a wrench.
- Turn off the water supply to the toilet. Locate the water shut-off valve behind the toilet and turn it clockwise to close it.
- Disconnect the water supply line from the toilet. Use a wrench to loosen the nuts that connect the water supply line to the toilet.
- Remove the old toilet. Have a helper assist you in lifting the old toilet up and off the toilet flange. Be careful not to damage the floor or the toilet.
- Clean the toilet flange. Remove any old wax or debris from the toilet flange. A wire brush can be used to clean the flange.
- Place the wax ring on the toilet flange. The wax ring should be centered on the flange.
- Place the toilet on the toilet flange. Carefully lower the toilet onto the wax ring. Press down on the toilet to compress the wax ring and create a watertight seal.
- Reconnect the water supply line to the toilet. Use a wrench to tighten the nuts that connect the water supply line to the toilet.
- Turn on the water supply to the toilet. Check for any leaks around the base of the toilet.
- Install the toilet seat. Align the toilet seat with the toilet bowl and insert the bolts into the holes on the toilet bowl. Tighten the nuts on the bolts to secure the toilet seat.
People Also Ask
How do I know if my toilet flange is bad?
There are a few signs that indicate a bad toilet flange. These include:
- A loose toilet that rocks back and forth.
- Water leaking from around the base of the toilet.
- A cracked or broken flange.
How do I replace a toilet flange?
Replacing a toilet flange is a more complex plumbing task that should be performed by a professional plumber. However, if you are confident in your plumbing skills, you can follow these steps to replace a toilet flange:
- Turn off the water supply to the toilet.
- Disconnect the water supply line from the toilet.
- Remove the old toilet.
- Remove the bolts that secure the toilet flange to the floor.
- Remove the old toilet flange.
- Install the new toilet flange.
- Reconnect the water supply line to the toilet.
- Install the toilet.
How do I fix a leaking toilet flange?
There are a few ways to fix a leaking toilet flange. One option is to use a toilet flange repair kit. These kits typically include a rubber gasket that fits over the flange and a sealant that is applied around the gasket. Another option is to replace the entire toilet flange. This is a more permanent solution, but it is also more complex and time-consuming.
