Toilets are one of the most used systems in your home. You use them every single day for years on end. But, with all of that use, how do you know when it’s time to replace your toilet?
If you’re starting to notice any of the following signs, it’s time to call your trusted plumber:
- Your toilet becomes clogged ever day
- You have to call your plumber too frequently to fix those clogs
- Your toilet is from a previous millennium and has aged out
- Your toilet has sustained damage
Really, there are any number of reasons why a toilet might need to be replaced. Fortunately, you don’t have to be the one to take care of it on your own.
If you’re ready to replace your old, damaged or clog-prone toilet, give our team of trained professionals a call for a new install. We’ll take care of everything for you so that you don’t have to get your hands dirty or risk damaging your property and plumbing system. Sure, you could try to replace your toilet on your own, but wouldn’t you rather have peace of mind in knowing that the job was done right?
When it comes to replacing a toilet, there are certain steps that your plumber will follow. Here’s what you can expect:
Preparatory Steps
First, careful measurements will be taken to ensure that your new toilet will fit into the existing space. You’d be surprised at how often do-it-yourselfers forget this crucial step. But, you certainly don’t want to wait until you’ve removed your old toilet only to find that the new one won’t fit. Then, once everything has been double and triple checked, they’ll shut off the water supply to the toilet.
Draining
Once the water is shut off, all of the water from the toilet bowl will need to be removed. Every drop will need to go down the drain before the water supply line can be disconnected from the base of the tank. To do this, the toilet will first be flushed, then a plunger may be used to force any remaining water down the drain line. A sponge and bucket might also be used to remove anything else from the water tank.
Toilet Removal
If you have a two-piece toilet, the tank will be disconnected from the bowl before disconnecting and removing the bowl. Both pieces will be removed after trimming and releasing all trim caps, nuts, washers, bolts, etc. are taken away (which may require special tools). Once the entire unit is removed, the open line to the sewer will be exposed, so your plumber will temporarily cover it to prevent sewer gasses from seeping into your home. Before the new install can take place, your plumber will also remove the old wax seal around the pipe and clean the area.
New Wax Seal Install
Once the flange is exposed, your plumber will check to see that everything is intact and not cracked. If everything looks good, your plumber will remove the temporary cover and install the new wax seal and bolts.
Position and Secure the New Toilet
Finally, your plumber will position and secure your new toilet. First, they’ll line up all of the fixtures and press the toilet in place to form a seal with the new wax ring. Then, once everything looks good, they’ll attach all of the washers, nuts and bolts to secure it in place before turning the water supply back on.
Sure, in reading this, you might think that it all sounds pretty easy, but don’t be fooled. One missed step, and you could have a real mess and a future problem on your hands. Every single step must be carefully followed to get the job done correctly, and every situation is somewhat unique and requires different tools and care. That’s why it’s always better to seek the advice and work of a professional plumber. Tritan Plumbing is always ready to help with your plumbing projects. And, best of all; our work is guaranteed!
