Toilet Installation: Your Complete Guide for Nashville Homes  

Table Of Contents: 

• Assessing the Plumbing System  

  • Familiarizing With the Shut-off Valve  

  • Making Friends with Your Toilet Bowl  

• Tools and Materials Needed  

  • Choosing High-Quality Tools  

  • Understanding Material Requirements  

• Removing the Old Toilet  

  • The Role of an Adjustable Wrench in Disconnecting Your Water Supply Line  

  • Saying Goodbye to Your Tank and Bowl Separately  

  • Popping Open Bolt Caps & Removing Nuts from The Bowl Base  

  • Things To Remember  

• Preparing the Area for Installation  

  • Cleaning Your Bathroom Floor  

  • Leveling Out Uneven Spots  

• Measuring and Marking New Toilet Placement  

  • Finding the Perfect Position for Your Toilet  

• Necessary Repairs and Adjustments  

  • Addressing Water Damage  

• Installing the New Toilet Bowl  

  • Selecting the Appropriate Toilet Bowl  

  • Securing Bolts & Caps  

• Connecting Water Supply Line  

  • Tightening The Connection  

  • Making A Secure Fit  

• Installing the Toilet Tank  

  • Attaching The Tank to The Bowl  

  • Harnessing Your Water Supply Line Powers  

  • A Test of Waters: Checking for Leaks  

• FAQs About Toilet Installation  

  • How much would it cost to install a toilet?  

  • What is the labor cost to install a toilet?  

  • How do I estimate a toilet installation?  

  • Can I install a toilet myself?  

• Conclusion 

Assessing the Plumbing System

Before we dive headfirst into toilet installation, it's crucial to understand your plumbing system. It’s like knowing the rules of the road before you start driving a new car. You don’t want any surprises mid-journey. 

A good place to start is by evaluating your waste pipe and stack line. Think of these as highways for water in your home; they direct wastewater from fixtures out toward sewage or septic systems. 

To check for leaks, turn off all faucets and listen carefully - silence should be golden here. If you hear any trickling sounds or notice wet spots around pipes, there may be water leaks that need attention before installing a new toilet. 

You also have an invisible housemate: sewer gases. They can creep back up if not properly managed with things like p-traps and vent pipes acting as bouncers at Club "Your Home". But sometimes these defenses aren't enough, which means taking measures to prevent sewer gases is critical during installation. 

Familiarizing With the Shut-off Valve

Next on our journey is locating the shut-off valve – this is essentially the ‘pause button’ for the water supply near your toilet. Turning this off (usually done by turning clockwise) when replacing a toilet helps avoid indoor rain showers - trust me on that one. 

Making Friends with Your Toilet Bowl 

• Bowl shape: Do you prefer elongated bowls or round ones? This isn't just about aesthetics but also how comfortably you fit on them. 

• Water lines: These should be clear and free of rust or corrosion. Damaged water lines can lead to leaks and more damage in the long run. 

• Toilet flange: This is where your toilet meets the floor. It must be in good condition as this is what helps prevent sewer gases from wafting into your bathroom. 

In a nutshell, assessing the plumbing system before installing a new toilet involves understanding key components like waste pipes, stack lines, and the shut-off valve while checking for water leaks and ensuring the right measures are taken to prevent sewer gases from making an unwanted appearance. 

Key Takeaway: Before you kick off your toilet installation project, take some time to understand your plumbing system. Inspect the 'highways' of water - those are waste pipes and stack lines. Be sure to listen for any leaks in quiet pipes and watch out for tricky sewer gases that might be lurking around. Locate that all-important shut-off valve – it'll save you from unwanted indoor showers. Finally, get acquainted with your toilet bowl: consider its shape carefully because comfort is key. 

Tools and Materials Needed 

Gathering the necessary tools and materials is the initial step to ensure the successful installation of your new toilet. Ensuring that all the appropriate tools and materials are gathered before beginning will ensure a successful installation. 

Choosing High-Quality Tools

A job well done starts with quality tools. A reliable adjustable wrench, for instance, allows for tight connections without damaging fixtures. It's also smart to have on hand a sharp utility knife - perfect for trimming any excess wax ring material or slicing through old caulk lines. 

The right putty knife is another must-have tool in your arsenal. Look for one that has both flexibility and strength; this balance makes it ideal when removing old wax seals or scraping off stubborn residues left by previous installations. 

Understanding Material Requirements 

Toilet installation involves more than just the porcelain throne itself – several essential components come into play during the process as well. 

• Plastic Bolts: Plastic bolts are used for securing both the tank and bowl sections of two-piece toilets together securely without causing damage. 

• Tank-to-Bowl Gasket: This gasket forms an impermeable seal between the tank and bowl, ensuring no water leakage occurs post-installation. 

• New Wax Seal: An integral part of preventing leaks at the base where the toilet meets the floor flange—your trusty barrier against sewer gas intrusions. 

With these essentials gathered, you’re ready. Remember: Broussard Services doesn't just supply tips—we’re here in Nashville, TN, and Biloxi, MS to help with your toilet installation needs. So why not leave the hard work to us? We have all the necessary tools and materials plus expertise to get the job done right the first time. 

Removing the Old Toilet

Getting ready for a toilet replacement? Let's begin the process of replacing the old toilet by removing it. It may appear intimidating, but we're here to assist throughout the process. 

You'll first need to flush out any remaining water in your toilet bowl and tank. Now, how do you do that? Simple. Just give your good ol' porcelain throne one final royal flush, then use a plunger to force down any stubborn leftover water into the drain line. 

The Role of an Adjustable Wrench in Disconnecting Your Water Supply Line 

An adjustable wrench will be your best friend during this process. You'll need it to disconnect your existing water supply line from its source. And don't forget - have a bucket and rag handy because nobody likes an unexpected splash. 

Saying Goodbye to Your Tank and Bowl Separately 

If you’re going solo on this project, separating the tank from the bowl can make things easier for you. But how do you part ways with such inseparable entities? 

To remove the tank, just locate those bolts at the bottom connecting it with the bowl. Using your trusty adjustable wrench, take off these bonds of steel. 

Popping Open Bolt Caps & Removing Nuts from The Bowl Base 

Your next mission is popping open the bolt caps securing the bowl base firmly onto the floor. Use pliers or that handy adjustable wrench to bid farewell to nuts and washers on these bolts. 

Voila. You've successfully removed your old toilet, a task not for the faint-hearted. Now you're all set for a fresh start with a new throne fit for royalty. 

Things To Remember 

• Clear your workspace of any obstructions for a safe and successful endeavor; taking care to use the necessary protective equipment. 

• You may need additional tools like gloves, a mask, and goggles - safety first. 

• Remember, patience is crucial in this process. 

Key Takeaway: Embrace the DIY spirit when removing your old toilet. Flush out the remaining water, then with an adjustable wrench in hand, disconnect the water supply line and separate the tank from the bowl. Pop open the bolt caps to free the base. Remember: keep a clean workspace, safety gear is a must-have, and patience will make this process smoother. 

Preparing the Area for Installation 

When it comes to installing a new toilet, preparation is key. It's not just about having the right tools and materials; you also need to prepare your bathroom area properly. 

The first step in preparing for toilet installation involves cleaning and leveling the floor. Make sure that any old adhesive or debris is completely removed from where your new throne will sit. If there are uneven spots on the floor, level them out before proceeding with the installation process. 

Cleaning Your Bathroom Floor 

Dirt can interfere with the proper sealing of wax rings or flanges during installation, so get down on your hands and knees if needed. The cleaner this area is, the smoother your installation will go. 

Leveling Out Uneven Spots 

A leveled base ensures stability for your toilet – something we all appreciate when sitting down. A simple carpenter’s level can help identify any problem areas needing attention. 

Measuring and Marking New Toilet Placement 

Precise measurements aren't just good practice - they're necessary. Carefully measure both sides from the wall to ensure an even placement of your new fixture (standard toilets require 12 inches from the centerline). 

This might sound like overkill but trust us - few things are more frustrating than finding out too late that everything isn’t lined up correctly. 

Finding the Perfect Position for Your Toilet 

You’ll want ample space around, so mark the position accordingly, considering doors opening/closing as well as room aesthetics besides practicality requirements outlined by building codes. This Old House offers a handy guide. 

Necessary Repairs and Adjustments 

Lastly, check the area for any necessary repairs or adjustments. Is there water damage? Do you need to switch out the shut-off valve? 

Addressing Water Damage 

If signs of a rotting subfloor are visible after removing the old toilet, now is the best time to repair it before installing the new one. 

Key Takeaway: When you're gearing up to install a new toilet, remember that preparation is key. Begin by cleaning your bathroom floor and leveling it. It's important to get rid of any old adhesive or debris and smooth out any bumps. Accurate measurements for the toilet's placement are crucial - aim for 12 inches from the centerline. And don't forget - if there are any repairs needed, such as water damage, tackle them before moving forward. 

Installing the New Toilet Bowl 

You're ready to start the new toilet bowl installation, right? Let's do this. We'll first tackle connecting it to the flange and securing everything with bolts and caps. But remember, each type of bowl is a bit different. 

Selecting the Appropriate Toilet Bowl 

Different types of bowls have their perks. One-piece toilets are sleek but heavier, while two-piece toilets offer easier handling during installation. Wall-hung toilets save space in small bathrooms, yet they may require additional support structures. 

To make your decision simpler, consider your bathroom size, budget constraints, as well as aesthetic preferences. Now that you've got your perfect match let's get it fixed onto that toilet flange. 

The wax ring goes on top of the flange - think of it like a sticky handshake between your toilet bowl and sewer line. It helps prevent water leaks (and unwanted smells.). Make sure you position this carefully because adjusting can be tricky once placed. 

Now place your toilet squarely over those bolt holes – no wiggling or tilting allowed here. The aim is to keep our friendly wax seal undisturbed for an effective sealant job. 

Securing Bolts & Caps

Say hello to tank bolts: these little guys secure your porcelain throne firmly onto its platform. Fit them into corresponding holes on both sides before gently lowering down until fully seated on top of the wax ring and resting evenly against the floor surface. Note: Gently rock back and forth till it's free and can be lifted. 

Once the bowl is seated, tighten the plastic bolt caps onto the bolts with a gentle hand – we don't want any cracks. These are essentially your toilet's shiny shoes, providing an aesthetic finish while protecting bolts from rusting or corroding. Note: To prevent sewer gases from venting into the home, stuff a rag into the open line on the floor after removing the old seal using a putty knife. 

Key Takeaway: It's crucial to remember that every type of toilet bowl is unique and brings certain benefits. One-piece toilets have a sleek design but can be heavy, making them slightly harder to handle during installation. On the other hand, two-piece toilets offer easier handling due to their separate components. If you're working with limited space in your bathroom, wall-hung options could be an ideal choice as they save valuable floor area. Make sure to consider all these factors along with your budget constraints and aesthetic preferences when choosing the perfect fit for your bathroom. 

Connecting Water Supply Line 

After you've installed your new toilet bowl, the next big step is to connect the water supply line. It may seem daunting, but with a little information and forbearance, it isn't as tricky as it appears. 

Tightening The Connection 

To start this task, grab an adjustable wrench. You'll use this handy tool to disconnect the old supply line if there's one attached already. Don't forget to have a bucket and rag on hand though. It helps catch any rogue drops of water that might escape from the disconnected supply line. 

The next step in connecting your water supply involves sealing techniques for leak prevention - essential for avoiding future plumbing nightmares. Trust us; no one wants their newly installed toilet leaking all over their bathroom floor. 

Making A Secure Fit 

Your adjustable wrench comes into play again here - tighten up that connection between your toilet tank and its newfound water source until it feels secure enough without forcing anything too much (we don’t want any accidental cracks or leaks).

If you're feeling unsure about doing this right or finding yourself facing difficulties during installation, contact your local plumbing professionals for help. 

Installing the Toilet Tank 

You've made it to one of the final steps - installing your new toilet tank. Let's dive into this exciting part of our journey. This step is about precision and ensuring that everything lines up perfectly. 

Attaching The Tank to The Bowl 

To start, place your shiny new tank onto the bowl, aligning carefully with the mounting holes. Grab those trusty tank bolts you picked out at the home improvement store. Remember? Those are going right through these holes now. 

Bolts secured? Awesome. Now let’s tighten them just enough to hold things in place, but not so much as to crack anything. It's a bit like Goldilocks finding her perfect porridge - not too loose, not too tight. 

Harnessing Your Water Supply Line Powers 

The next mission: connecting your water supply line back again using an adjustable wrench (Remember where we left it?). Just screw it on gently until it fits snugly against your newly installed fill valve located under the tank. 

A Test of Waters: Checking for Leaks

Now comes a momentous occasion – turning on that water supply once more. It's as thrilling as it was for Thomas Edison to flip that light switch when he first tested his invention. You're making history here…in bathroom remodeling terms anyway. 

We need our trusted friend Mr. Shutoff Valve opened gradually, letting water fill up our brand-new gravity-fed toilets or even smarter smart toilets if you decide to go high tech (you maverick.). Watch keenly as all systems boot up for any leaks from those bolt caps, or along where the toilet sits on the floor. 

"Toilet installation may seem daunting but remember - the only difference between an expert and a beginner is experience. You're gaining that with each step." 

So, let's hold our breaths (not because of any toilet smells), cross our fingers, and hope for no leaks. If all goes well, you've successfully installed your new throne. But if there are issues? Well... Broussard Services in Nashville, TN, or Biloxi, MS can help. 

Key Takeaway: Installing a toilet tank involves careful alignment and tightening of bolts. Reconnecting your water supply line requires precision too, but with the right tools, it's manageable. After installation, check for leaks while gradually refilling the tank with water - it's an exciting moment akin to lighting up Edison’s bulb. Remember: installing a toilet is all about gaining experience; even experts had their first time doing this task. 

FAQs About Toilet Installation 

How much would it cost to install a toilet?

Average costs for installing a new toilet range from $200-$500, with higher-end models potentially costing more. 

What is the labor cost to install a toilet?

Labor fees for professional installation typically fall between $75 and $150. It depends on your location and the plumber's rates. 

How do I estimate a toilet installation? 

To estimate, add up the price of the new unit plus any necessary parts and tools, then factor in labor costs if hiring professionals.

Can I install a toilet myself? 

If you're handy around house repairs, yes. But make sure you follow all instructions carefully to avoid leaks or other issues later. 

Conclusion

Toilet installation doesn't have to be a nightmare. From assessing your plumbing system, gathering essential tools and materials, removing the old throne, and preparing the area for a new one - it's all doable. 

You've learned how to install not just any toilet but the perfect one that fits your needs. Remember those crucial steps of installing both the bowl and tank separately? The knowledge is now yours! 

Securing connections with bolts or adjusting water supply lines might seem challenging at first. As you progress, your skill and assurance will grow. 

And remember: Toilet Installation isn’t about rushing in blindly; it’s about having patience! So take your time as you go step-by-step towards building that dream bathroom while saving on extra costs from professional plumbers. 

Need professional toilet installation in Nashville or Biloxi? There's no shame in that. If you're not a professional plumber, the time it would take to learn how to do it properly might be better spent doing something else. After all, toilet installation is a rare event, so hiring a professional plumber might be more time-saving and cost-effective while guaranteeing proper installation and peace of mind.  

Our team of professional plumbers at Broussard Services is ready to assist you with your toilet installation needs. With years of experience and expertise, we ensure a seamless and efficient installation process for maximum satisfaction. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward upgrading your bathroom.