How to Install a Toilet

A leaky toilet will cause unnecessary water damage to floors and sub floors. When a leaking toilet is detected you must repair or replace it right away in order to prevent any further damage. Here's how.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Wrench
• Scrapper
• Wax ring
• Caulk
• Caulk gun

1. Shut off the water supply to the toilet before you start your project to prevent leaks and other water damage. Flush toilet to remove the excess water from tank and bowl of toilet. Use a sponge and bucket to remove water remaining in toilet bowl.

2. Remove toilet flange nuts. If caulked to the floor cut caulking around the base of the toilet. Remove toilet and place on cardboard or paper; this will prevent the porcelain from getting damaged or chipped.

3. Clean and or scrape old wax ring from base of toilet and toilet flange.

4. Inspect toilet flange for cracks and defects. If any defects are present on the flange, consult your local plumber to replace it. If no defects are present, install new wax ring on toilet.

5. Replace toilet carefully onto toilet flange evenly while aligning toilet flange bolts.

6. Apply even pressure to toilet bowl and twist slightly. Tighten toilet flange bolts evenly to ensure you don't overtighten bolts and crack the toilet.

7. Turn on water supply when installed and be sure there are no water leaks.

8. Caulk toilet to floor if no leaks are present.

Tips & Warnings

• Turn off water supply before removing toilet; otherwise water damage will occur.

Resources

• Hammer Zone
• Home Tips