Start Your Toilet Installation the Right Way in Austin, Texas

Though it might seem like a complex task, installing a toilet doesn't have to be intimidating. Whether you plan to take on the job yourself or hire a professional for help, understanding the necessary steps to complete your toilet installation gives you the confidence to make sure the job is correctly done. And in 78704, Austin, Texas, Abacus offers the best service for quality and speedy installations.

Before we get started, it's important to be aware of any safety concerns related to electricity, as well as the fact that plumbing, gas, and water lines should be shut off prior to beginning any work. Professional plumbing services, like those offered by Abacus, always follow safety protocols to ensure the job is done correctly.

Tools and Materials Needed for Toilet Installation

Making the right adjustments in your bathroom will not only ensure that your toilet fits properly but also will create an aesthetically pleasing first impression when viewed from the doorway. Before shopping for a toilet, measure the available space in your bathroom to determine the size (length, width, and height) that can fit in the designated area.

Once you have the measurements for the available space, you're ready to select the correct type and size of toilet that fits your bathroom. Of the many varieties of toilets on the market, we recommend two types for residential usage: the traditional two-piece design and the more contemporary one-piece model. Other features, such as water-saving designs, gravity-fed tanks, and tank-and-bowl combos, should be considered for each space.

The tools needed for the job usually include aPhillips screwdriver, a crescent wrench, a utility knife, plumber's putty, a torque wrench, an adjustable wrench, a straightedge, an offset flange, and a caulking gun. Materials such as a wax seal, a toilet bowl, threaded posts, an anchor bolt, and mounting bolts with washers should also be on hand. Any required supply lines, shutoff valves, and a new toilet seat can also be purchased.

Step-by-Step Process for Toilet Installation

When ready to start your actual installation, you first need to prepare the new bowl. Starting with an empty tank allows for easy access to the parts and for them to be tested for proper connections. Meanwhile, turn off the water supply line and flush a few times in order to empty the tank.

Once the tank is empty, unscrew the bolts on either side of the base to disconnect the toilet. Disconnect and remove the supply line from the wall as well. Inspect the condition of the tank for wear and tear, ensuring it's still in good condition. Then, place the new tank onto the toilet bowl and connect the supply line.

Next, adjust the bolts so that the toilet is securely bolted onto the floor. If you're installing a two-piece toilet, be sure to connect the tank and bowl by aligning the bolts and then tightening them. Position the toilet so that it is flush with the wall or other obstructions that might be in the way. Use a straight edge to ensure that the bowl is even with the wall or floor.

Final Steps

Once the bowl and tank have been anchored to the floor, the wax ring should be applied between the toilet and the floor flange, and then the bolts securing the toilet should again be tightened. After verifying that the toilet is producing a watertight seal, wrap the bolts with plumber's putty and tighten them.

Finally, connect any supply lines and check the position of the shoulder bolts to make certain the tank is securely in place. The toilet is now ready for a first flush. Once you are satisfied with the water control, replace the access panel and complete the job.

Toilet Installation

78704

Austin Texas