Installing a Toilet: The Ultimate DIY Guide

Getting a new toilet installed can be a complicated and intimidating process for many homeowners. For those living in 78754, Austin - Texas, there is no need to worry as experienced and knowledgeable technicians from Abacus residential and commercial plumbing are just a phone call away. From installing to troubleshooting, repair and maintenance, Abacus will have your toilet working perfectly in no time.

Whether the goal is to replace an existing toilet, or to install a brand new one, there are some important factors to consider that one must keep in mind. This guide will provide the comprehensive steps one needs to know to ensure the installation runs smoothly.

Preparing for the Installation

Before beginning the installation, there are few things one needs to do to ensure the process goes as smoothly as possible. Making sure that you have all the necessary tools and materials, are familiar with the cutting-edge techniques and have the correct base measurements for the toilet. Without this preparation it is likely the installation will take longer than it needs to or potentially fail.

Gathering the Essential Tools and Materials

To install a new toilet, one is going to need various tools and materials. Every installation is different, so it is essential to check the installation guide that comes with the toilet to make sure all the materials one needs are at hand. However, the basic materials needed are as follows:

- Basic hand tools: screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable wrenches, and a hacksaw.

- Plumber's putty

- Toilet wax ring

- Water supply line

- Bolts and washers

- Toilet installation board or wedges

- Toilet seat with lid

- Floor bolts

Learning the Installation Process

Now that the materials have been gathered it is time to learn the process of installation. Generally, the installation process requires one to turn off the water supply, disconnect the water supply line, remove the old toilet, clean the base, add the wax ring, install the base, seat and lid and finally add the new water supply line.

Turning off the Water Supply

The first step is to shut the water supply off to the toilet. This is easy to do, as it is the main supply line in the house. One simply needs to turn the shut off valve clockwise until it is in the off position. It is a good idea to also turn off the tank valves as well.

Disconnect the Water Supply Line

Once the water supply is off, it is time to disconnect the water supply line. Place a bowl on the floor beneath the water supply line connection. Now loosen the nut that holds the water line to the tank by using an adjustable wrench. Do not remove it completely, only loosen it so you can easily reconnect it to the new toilet's inlet holes.

Removing the Old Toilet

The removal of the old toilet depends greatly on the type of toilet one is replacing. Generally, one will need to remove the water tank, unscrew any nuts that are connecting the tank and base of the bowl to the floor, and then carefully slide the old toilet off of its base. Be careful when doing this as to not damage the floor.

Cleaning the Base

Once the old toilet is off, it is important to clean the base before installing the new one. This removes any potential debris that can potentially prevent the toilet from forming a strong bond with the floor. It is also important to check for any signs of water leakage or damage that may have been caused by the previous toilet and to repair them before continuing on with the installation.

Adding the Wax Ring

Using plumber's putty to secure the wax ring around the base of the new toilet is important for preventing potential leaks. This is done by applying a thin coat of putty on the back of the new toilet and then fitting the wax ring onto the base of the toilet. Once the wax ring is secure it is then time to move onto the actual installation process.

Installing the Base

Ensuring the base of the new toilet is secure and centered is of utmost importance. To ensure the base is secure, make sure to use the toilet installation board and wedges to level the base, otherwise the toilet may move when it is in use.

Next, use the nuts and washers provided to secure the toilet to the floor. Once the toilet is fits tightly into the base, the next step is to connect the water supply line to the inlet valve on the side of the tank.

Fitting the Toilet Seat and Lid

When it comes to the toilet seat and lid, one needs to make sure to use the right size. Too large, and it will be difficult to keep in place, while too small and it won't fit onto the base properly. Generally, it is best to measure the seat to ensure it fits perfectly. After this the only thing left to do is connect the lid to the toilet seat and fasten it shut, this usually requires two bolts.

Adding the Water Supply Line

Finally, the last step to the installations process is to connect the water supply line. This is done by using an adjustable wrench to tighten the extra-long nut onto the inlet valve on the tank. Make sure not to overtighten as this could cause damage to both the tank, the valve, and the water supply line.

And that is it, the installation is complete. All that is left to do is to turn the water supply back on and test the toilet to ensure it operates without any issues.

If a homeowner in 78754, Austin - Texas feels overwhelmed and does not have the time or confidence to install the toilet themselves, then they can call Abacus residential and commercial plumbing to handle the entire process for them. With years of experience and a commitment to providing excellent customer service, Abacus will ensure your toilet is installed quickly and correctly with no stress.

Toilet Installation

Austin TX

Home Improvement