Whether your toilet is cracked or your child flushed something that is obstructing the line, a commode upgrade may suddenly be necessary. However, it isn’t as simple as separating the old toilet from the surface and placing the new one.
That’s primarily because negligence during installation can lead to leaks. Hiring skilled contractors makes for an efficient installation process and avoids unpleasant instances.
However, as a homeowner getting familiar with the toilet installation steps and different toilet types can complement the renovation process.
Toilet installation is no breeze. Various factors go into a successful installation process, from gathering the correct tools to ensuring appropriate adjustments. Here are some steps contractors typically follow when installing a toilet in a bathroom:
Once experts remove the old toilet, they scrape the worn-out wax ring using cardboard. They thoroughly inspect the flange and fix it upon spotting cracks.
Whip-smart professionals go for self-adjusting closet bolts for obvious reasons. They
do not require cutting. Instead, they contain a thread locker that forces the stud into the anchor nut. They close the bolts on both sides and position the lock washers against the flange.
The contractors may place the wax ring on the underside of the toilet or the flange. Following this, they may use an extended-height wax ring if the flange is relatively lower.
Then, they position the toilet over the flange and arrange it such that the holes align with the closet bolts. Firmly pressing the toilet against the floor keeps it in place.
At this point, they place the regular and nylon washers on the bolts and tighten them. This step doesn’t need any equipment and can be done with bare hands.
The toilet must be leveled adequately from all sides. Professionals may shim the toilet with steel washers.
This helps create an optimal balance and level the toilet. Next, they may tuck the pennies underneath after achieving the correct level. This is followed by tightening the nuts over the closet bolts.
This is one of the most important steps in toilet installation. Correctly attaching the supply line ensures adequate toilet functioning. Toilet installers prefer using rubber gaskets because they eliminate the need for threads.
Once they connect everything, they open the valve to let the tank fill with water. This is the point when they also observe the toilet for leaks. If spotted, they take adequate measurements to prevent them.
Although optional, caulking the base provides a finished look and keeps the toilet from leaks. However, professionals may leave a weep hole on the backside to detect unwanted leaks.
A toilet is a toilet, right? Wrong! You’ll be baffled by the choices of toilet types once you hit the market. Not only do they differ in style, but they also have varying mechanisms.
Tech-savvy homeowners might be tempted to go the DIY route. However, a toilet installation requires extensive plumbing knowledge and appropriate tools. Otherwise, this can lead to potential leaks, installation issues, and cracks. Even worse, incorrect installation can lead to toilet flooding.
Because professionals know the ropes of toilet installation and the steps that make up for efficient installation, the task is best left to experts.
Regardless of how functional the chosen toilet type and style are, you cannot expect a practical outcome if an inexperienced person carries out the installation. In fact, it may lead to unwanted issues that require additional costs to fix.
So, hire a professional and save yourself the trouble of unwanted hassles and unnecessary costs.