Replace a Toilet
A practical homeowner guide to replacing a floor-mounted toilet. Follow the safety checks, confirm the exact part or model, and test your work before considering the repair complete.
Before you start
Look for corrosion, moisture staining, and the condition of nearby shutoff valves before taking anything apart. Photograph the original connection so you can restore the arrangement correctly.
Tools and supplies
- Adjustable wrench
- bucket
- gloves
- new seal
Tools & Materials for This Project
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Also prepare eye protection, a clean workspace, and any product-specific tools or fittings listed in the installation manual.
Step-by-step: Replacing a floor-mounted toilet
Read the entire procedure before starting. Use the product manual and local code requirements where they are more specific.
- Check for leaks at the supply stop and verify the shutoff actually works before disconnecting anything.
- Drain the tank and bowl with a sponge or wet/dry vacuum; protect the floor and have a helper for lifting.
- Remove the supply line and closet bolts; lift the old toilet straight up and plug the open drain temporarily with a removable rag (remove before installation).
- Scrape off the old wax; inspect the closet flange for cracks, loose screws, rust, and height relative to the finished floor. Repair a damaged flange before proceeding.
- Dry-fit the bowl and verify it sits solidly without rocking. Set a new wax ring or manufacturer-approved waxless seal, then lower the bowl vertically onto the flange bolts.
- Tighten closet nuts gradually and alternately—do not overtighten porcelain. Shim any rocking with non-absorbent shims before caulking.
- Install tank components per manufacturer instructions, connect a suitable supply line, open the stop slowly and check all joints and the bowl base through several flushes.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Never stack multiple wax rings to compensate for a broken or badly recessed flange without assessing the proper repair.
- Do not overtighten closet bolts: porcelain can crack suddenly.
- Do not caulk over an active leak or conceal a leaking base.
- If the floor is soft, stained, or the flange moves, stop and repair the subfloor/flange first.
Helpful video tutorials
Watch a relevant demonstration before starting. Check the model, safety steps and local code requirements for your project.
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DIY or hire a professional?
A plumber should handle inaccessible piping, failed shutoff valves, recurring leaks, or any damaged subfloor. A professional quote should explain labor, materials, disposal, warranty, site conditions and any permits. Compare identical scopes, not just total prices.
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