Toilet Installation: Everything You Need to Know
Would you believe something as trivial as a toilet can take extensive research and effort? While you take a few minutes to do the business, it takes hours for professionals to install the toilet and make it functional.
So, whether you moved into a new construction without a toilet or simply want to replace your old toilet with a new one, here’s what you need to know about toilet installation.
Toilet Installation & What It Entails
Toilet installation is no easy feat. However, since professional installers know the drill, they can make it a relatively straightforward process. Here are the basic steps of toilet installation:
Measuring and Adding Wax Ring
Toilet installation begins by measuring and marking the drill holes to secure the toilet seat. Professionals remove the soil cover and install a new wax ring with an outlet underneath.
Securing the Seat to the Floor
After connecting the toilet to the soil pipe, they secure it to the floor using bolts. The bolts are tightened to keep the toilet in place. They remain cautious while doing it to avoid cracking the toilet pan.
Installing the Cistern Tank
From low-level cisterns to high-level toilet cisterns, you can opt for various styles per your preferences. Each cistern tank offers unique purposes. Low-level cisterns, for instance, are adjusted above the pan.
There is a visible gap between the toilet and the pan. Contrarily, high-level cisterns are fixed high on the wall and require a step stool to access.
Connecting Water Pipe to It
Once installed, professionals use a wrench to attach the water pipe to the cistern. This is covered with a sealant to make a waterproof toilet.
Checking for Leaks
Trained experts always flush the water to check for leaks. No leaks indicate successful installation.
Different Types of Toilet Installation
A certified professional may choose to install one or another toilet type, depending on your circumstances and preferences. Here are some popular types of toilets:
Dual Flush Toilets
This toilet type includes a half flush and a full flush. The former is for liquid waste, while the latter is for solid waste.
One of the biggest perks of a dual flush toilet is water efficiency. Yes, it’s costlier, but it significantly adds to your convenience. Studies reveal that a
dual-flush system can reduce 67% of water waste compared to standard toilets.
Pressure Assisted Toilets
These toilets have a powerful flushing system. It uses pressurized air to push water into the tank. Those with multiple family members with more frequent toilet use might want to invest in this toilet. On a side note, they are noisy. So, you’d have to deal with it if you go this route.
Composting Toilets
Composting toilets have gained traction recently. As the name suggests, they treat human waste, eliminating unpleasant odors and evaporating the liquid. Most composting toilets use materials like wood chips, sawdust, or coconut coir after every use.
They must be maintained well to enjoy their optimal functionality.
Portable Toilets
As the name implies, they can be carried from one place to another. If you camp or hike frequently, you’ll appreciate their convenience. However, homeowners solely focused on bathroom renovation might look for other, more attractive options.
Gravity-Flush Toilet
These toilets hold water that fills the tank when you press the flush button. The water pushes the waste through the toilet away into the sewer.
These toilets operate silently and are suitable for homeowners who seek low-maintenance toilets.
Perks of Hiring Professionals
Toilet installation can be more complicated than you think. There’s a low chance your DIY tactics will be effective.
This is primarily due to the lack of experience and a failure to spot potential problems associated with incorrect toilet installation. These may include a deteriorated valve or supply line and a cracked toilet flange.
In the worst-case scenario, a faulty supply line can leak and flood your home, wreaking havoc on your possessions. Likewise, a broken toilet flange will keep the toilet from securing properly, leading to sewage leaks.
Before you embark on a home plumbing project, think of the long-term consequences it may cause. You can avoid these hassles by hiring professionals.
Skilled technicians have years of experience and know how to secure the toilet firmly. Beyond that, they can spot potential problems and fix them before they exacerbate and cause you trouble.
Key Takeaway
Various considerations go into successful toilet installation, from picking the toilet design, style, and flush mechanism.
This explains why this job is best left to professionals. They know the ropes of toilet installation and can significantly add to your bathroom experience by using the best materials and adjusting them correctly.