Whether you’re dealing with constant clogs, serious damage or another problem, facing toilet replacement isn’t exactly fun. You don’t want to just install the first toilet you see since a loose fit can cause more trouble than it’s worth. But as long as you take the proper measurements for a replacement toilet, the process is fairly short and straightforward.
You’ll want to decide a few things before you run to the store and buy a new toilet:
- Elongated or Round Front
- Comfort Height or Standard Height
- Rough-In Dimension
- This is the most critical because you want the same rough-in size as the existing toilet
- The rough-in dimension will only be 10”, 12” or 14”
We will talk about each of these in more detail.
Taking Measurements for Toilet Replacement
Don’t worry, you won’t have to account for every angle of the toilet’s shape. Instead, there are only a few key measurements you need to determine for whether a replacement toilet will fit into your bathroom. Double check all your measurements to ensure you have the correct information. Here are the measurements you’ll need to take:
- Rough-in dimensions: This important measurement accounts for the distance between the wall and the toilet’s closest bolts – these are the bolts that hold the toilet to the floor. For an accurate measurement, you’ll want to measure from the center of the bolts to the drywall (as opposed to the baseboard). Again, you should be measuring close to 10”, 12” or 14”, and while 12” dimensions are the most common, many toilets are also available with 10” and even 14” dimensions.
- Tank height: The height of the toilet tank is important because it influences how high the bowl sits off the floor. If the seat is too high or too low, it can be more difficult to use the toilet and maneuver around it. Tank height can also get in the way of any wall-hung storage or décor. Standard tanks average 14”-15”, though some reach as high as 19”.
- Bowl shape: Toilet bowls come in two main shapes: round and oval (also called elongated). Round toilets take up less space, making them great options for smaller bathrooms. Elongated-shaped bowls are a bit more comfortable but require that extra space.
Don’t forget about the toilet seat!
Toilets do NOT come with toilet seats; yes, that is true! You’ll want to match the toilet seat with the shape of the bowl you’re installing. You will either need a round-front toilet seat or an elongated toilet seat, depending on which toilet style you have chosen.
Consider All Other Complications
Even after you’ve collected the above measurements, there are a few more things to consider. Depending on the model of toilet you want and its available accessories, it may end up taking more room than you were expecting. Extra plumbing and electrical work as well the location of valves can make a comfortable location feel more cramped.
What’s more, some toilets come in a single piece versus a separate bowl and water tank. The tank can even be wall-mounted, which influences possible locations for installing the replacement. Keep all these things in mind before you schedule toilet installation with a professional technician.
Making the Trip to the Hardware Store
If you have decided to replace your toilet, and you want to pick-out the throne of your dreams, just remember to be prepared before going to the local hardware store, there are lots of options to pick from. If you take proper measurements with consideration for the size of your bathroom, toilet replacement should be a simple, straightforward process.
Once you have made the purchase, and brought the toilet home, remember, to call Aspinwall Plumbing & Heating and we will arrive to your home to professionally install your toilet!