Before you buy
- Measure the rough-in: measured off the finished wall to the closet bolt centres, usually 12 inches
- Check the bowl shape that fits your space, round or elongated
- Look for a tested flush rating rather than relying on looks
- Consider comfort height for older family members
Installation steps
- Close the stop, flush and sponge out the remaining water.
- Disconnect the supply and lift the old toilet onto a drop sheet.
- Scrape away the old wax and inspect the flange and subfloor.
- Repair or replace a broken flange; firm up soft flooring if needed.
- Lower the new bowl onto a fresh seal, tighten bolts evenly, then fit the tank.
- Install a new braided supply and replace the stop if it is old.
- Flush test, check for leaks and caulk the base as appropriate.
Old toilet disposal
We remove the old toilet from the house. Some homeowners ask about municipal toilet rebate programs that have run in the region in the past; check what is available now before you buy.
More on toilets
If the existing toilet is still good, toilet repair may be all you need. Constant clogs? See toilet unclogging and fixing a running toilet.
The short version
Tell-tale signs
- Water climbs toward the rim on every flush
- Brown ring on the ceiling of the room below
- Handle has to be held down to get a full flush
- Tank hisses and tops itself up all night
Kit on the van
- Putty knife and rags for scraping the old ring
- Flange plunger and a three-foot closet auger
- Fill valves, flappers and tank-to-bowl gaskets
- Wax rings, rubber seals and brass closet bolts
How we go about it
- Snug the bolts evenly, then shim and caulk
- Flush ten times and check the base with a dry tissue
- Close the stop, flush and sponge out what is left
- Run the closet auger or lift the bowl off the flange
Your questions, answered plainly
Can a toilet go on a tiled floor?
Yes; tile should be level and the flange set at the right height relative to the finished floor.
How soon can I use it?
Right away once leak testing is done.