Replacing a Toilet
Shut off the stop valve, flush to drain the tank, sponge out remaining water
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Tools Needed
- adjustable wrench
- bucket
- sponge
- putty knife
- hacksaw
- level
- rubber gloves
Parts & Materials
Available from multiple retailers
Available from multiple retailers
Available from multiple retailers
Available from multiple retailers
Available from multiple retailers
ā ļø Safety First
š§ Tools Needed
š¦ Materials
š Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Shut off the stop valve, flush to drain the tank, sponge out remaining water
2. Disconnect the supply line at the tank, loosen tank to bowl bolts if two piece
3. Pop off bolt caps at the base, remove nuts, rock the toilet to break the wax seal, lift straight up
4. Scrape old wax from the flange, check flange level and integrity, install repair ring if needed
5. Set new closet bolts in the flange, center and secure with plastic retainers
6. Place new wax ring on the horn of the bowl or on the flange per manufacturer
7. Lower the bowl squarely over bolts, press evenly to seat, do not twist excessively
8. Install washers and nuts, snug both sides evenly, do not overtighten, shim if the bowl rocks, trim bolt ends if needed
9. Set the tank on the bowl with new gasket if two piece, tighten alternating until stable
10. Reconnect the supply line, open the valve, let tank fill, test flush, check for leaks
11. Run a neat bead of silicone around the base leaving a gap at the back for leak detection
š” Pro Tips
ā Common Mistakes to Avoid
š Troubleshooting
Leak at base
*Cause:* Poor wax seal or rocking bowl
*Fix:* Reset with new ring, add shims, retighten evenly
Tank sweats
*Cause:* Cold water and humid room
*Fix:* Install mixing valve or use anti sweat tank liner
Weak flush
*Cause:* Low tank water or clog
*Fix:* Adjust fill valve height, use closet auger
ā Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Wax or waxless
A: Both work, wax is simplest, waxless helps on uneven flanges
Q: Flange below floor level
A: Use flange spacers or an extra thick ring
ā Checklist
Related Guides
Caulking Around Bathtub and Shower
Remove old caulk completely with utility knife and caulk remover
Read Guide āFixing Low Water Pressure in Shower Head
Remove shower head and soak in vinegar solution
Read Guide āToilet Installation and Replacement
Turn off water supply and flush toilet to empty tank
Read Guide ā