What Type of Plumbing Work Involves Replacing Toilets?

Replacement of toilets is one of those common plumbing jobs that many homeowners may have to face. Whatever the reason-be it an old, damaged, or malfunctioning toilet-knowledge of the plumbing job involved could help you better understand the process. In this blog, we look at the kind of plumbing works involved in replacing toilets and what one should expect from the whole process. When Should You Replace Your Toilet? Before homing on the commercial plumbing repair involved, there is a need to have a glimpse of when one may need to change his or her toilet. Well, here are some indications that you need a new one: Frequent Clogs: If your toilet clogs every now and then and plunging cannot help, then it may be time for a replacement. Leaks: In case you realize that water pools on the floor around the toilet base or drips from the tank, that is leakage. Old Age: Most toilets can easily last several decades, but over 25 years, yours may be inefficient and due for replacement. Cracks or Damage: Obvious cracks in the bowl or tank might cause leaks and need to be dealt with as soon as possible. Inefficiency: Older toilets use a lot more water per flush than newer models do. Replacing it with a newer, more efficient model can save water. Any of these signs might warrant replacement as an option to consider. Types of Plumbing Work Involved Choosing the Right Toilet Before plumbing work starts, you have got to select the right toilet for your home. Toilets vary in a number of styles, heights, and flushing mechanisms. Here are some factors to consider: Height: Comfort height toilets range about 17 to 19 inches, while the general dimensions of a standard toilet are about 15 inches. You decide upon what works best for you and your family. Style: There's one-piece or two-piece: One piece is much easier to clean; two-piece may be lesser in price. Flushing Mechanism: Some use gravity to help them move along, which each toilet uses, but there are those toilets that use pressure-assisted systems. Research to decide which kind of toilet will work best for you. After choosing an appropriate toilet, one may begin the replacement process. Gathering Tools and Materials The plumber now goes ahead and collects all the necessary tools and materials before making any replacement. What is actually needed includes: New Toilet: The toilet you chose. Wax Ring: This creates a seal between the toilet and the floor. Bolts and Nuts: To secure the toilet to the floor. Shims: To level the toilet if the floor is uneven. Wrench: For tightening nuts and bolts. Plunger: In case of any unexpected clogs during the process. Bucket and Towels: To catch any water spills. Having all the tools ready makes the job smoother and faster. Removing the Old Toilet Having everything ready, the 24 hour emeregency plumber then removes the old toilet. A general idea of how the operation goes is presented below: Turn Off the Water Supply: The plumber locates the shut-off valve next to the toilet and shuts off the water supply to prevent leakage. Empty the Toilet: They flush the toilet to drain the tank and bowl. They may even use a sponge or towel to absorb any residual water. Disconnect the Water Line: The plumber will disconnect the water supply line from the bottom of the tank. Remove the Bolts: They are then going to remove the nuts holding the toilet to the floor. These are usually attached at the very bottom of the toilet. Lift the Toilet Off: They will literally lift the toilet off its wax ring once everything is disconnected and set it aside. They will have to be very careful not to damage the floor. Preparing the Area First, the plumber will prepare the installation area for the new toilet. This would be a very important step to ensure fit and seal appropriately: Clean the Flange: The flange is that part which connects the toilet to the floor. The plumber should clean any debris or wax from the old toilet to make sure the new one sits correctly. Check for Damage: They will check the flange for any crack or damage. In case of any breakage, they will repair or replace it. Install New Wax Ring: The plumber will set a wax ring on the flange to mount the new toilet. This forms a watertight seal at the time of installing a new toilet. Installing the New Toilet Now, installation of a new toilet will be done. Following is how the plumber will install it: Position the Toilet: Now, the plumber will carefully lift the new toilet in place over the wax ring and flange. Press Down: Press down firmly to get a good seal with the wax ring. Secure the Toilet: The plumber will then use bolts to secure the toilet to the floor, making sure it is level and does not rock. Reconnect the Water Supply: A plumber reconnects the water supply line to the tank. Turn On the Water: They will turn the water supply on and look for leaks. Test the Toilet: Finally, the plumber will flush the toilet a number of times to ensure all is working as it should. Finishing Up After the new toilet is installed, the plumber cleans up the area. They remove the old parts and any other pieces of trash from the installation. This is also a great time to talk to the homeowner about any type of maintenance tips or care instructions regarding the new commode. Conclusion Replacing a toilet involves several steps, which range from the selection of the correct model to the actual installation. Knowing what type of plumbing work is involved in the process should first help you feel better about the process. If you have any problems with your toilet or notice any of these signs that show your toilet should be replaced, call a professional plumber. They have the knowledge, and with all the proper equipment, will ensure that the job is done correctly and safely. A perfectly efficient toilet adds to the efficiency and comfort of your house, hence it is worth an investment definitely. So when the time of its replacement arrives, you know what exactly to expect!