Why You Might Need a New Toilet
A toilet that constantly runs, wobbles, or clogs frequently is often past the point of a simple repair. Cracks in the porcelain bowl or tank can leak water onto the floor and cause damage to the subfloor. An old toilet that uses 3.5 gallons per flush wastes water compared to modern 1.28-gallon models. If you have to jiggle the handle or hold it down to get a full flush, the internal parts are worn out and a replacement is usually the more reliable option.
Before you decide to replace, check whether the problem is the wax ring or the flange. A leaking base or a smell of sewer gas means the wax ring has failed. Sometimes the flange—the plastic or metal ring that bolts the toilet to the floor—is broken or rotted. A crew can replace the flange and reset the old toilet, but if the toilet is old or cracked, a new one is a better investment. The crew will inspect the floor and the drain pipe before they remove the old unit.
The Steps the Crew Follows on Site
Our crew starts by shutting off the water at the valve behind the toilet and flushing to empty the tank and bowl. They disconnect the supply line and unbolt the toilet from the floor. They lift the toilet straight up and set it aside on a drop cloth. Then they scrape away the old wax ring and inspect the flange for damage. If the flange is broken or too low, they replace it with a new one. They also check the subfloor for rot or soft spots and repair it if needed.
Next, they install a new wax ring or a wax-free rubber gasket on the flange. They set the new toilet carefully onto the ring, pressing down evenly to create a seal. They bolt the toilet to the flange, tighten the nuts evenly, and attach the tank to the bowl if it came separate. They connect the supply line, turn the water on, and check for leaks at the base and the supply connection. They flush the toilet several times to test the seal and the fill valve. The whole process takes about an hour.
Comparing Toilet Types and Features
The most common type is a two-piece toilet, where the tank and bowl are separate. These are easier to handle and cheaper to replace. One-piece toilets have a seamless design that is easier to clean and less prone to leaks, but they are heavier and more expensive. The shape of the bowl matters too. Round bowls save space in small bathrooms, while elongated bowls are more comfortable and are the standard in newer homes.
Flush performance varies by model. Gravity-flush toilets are the most common and use the weight of water to clear the bowl. Pressure-assisted toilets use compressed air to push water with more force, which is good for high-traffic bathrooms but louder. The height of the toilet also matters. Standard height is about 15 inches, while comfort height is 17 to 19 inches, which is easier for taller people and those with mobility issues. The crew can help you choose based on your bathroom layout and your needs.
What the Crew Does Before Leaving
After the new toilet is installed and tested, the crew checks the floor for any water or debris and cleans up the work area. They take the old toilet away for disposal. They make sure the toilet is level and does not rock. If it rocks, they may need to shim the base with plastic shims and trim them flush. They also check the caulk around the base. Some crews caulk the front and sides but leave the back open so a future leak can be seen.
They run the toilet through a full flush cycle and watch for any leaks at the supply line, the tank bolts, and the base. They adjust the water level in the tank if needed. They show you how the new flush handle works and where the shut-off valve is. They will also tell you if there is a break-in period for the fill valve or if the toilet needs a second flush to clear the bowl. You should be able to use the toilet right away with no issues.
How to Care for a New Toilet
A new toilet requires very little maintenance. Avoid using harsh chemical cleaners that can damage the rubber seals and gaskets inside the tank. Stick to a mild bathroom cleaner or a vinegar-and-water solution for the bowl and exterior. Do not use in-tank bleach tablets or drop-in cleaners, as they can corrode the flush valve and fill valve over time. If you notice the toilet running or the handle sticking, check the chain and flapper first—they are easy to adjust.
Watch for signs of a leak at the base. If you see water pooling around the bottom or smell sewer gas, the wax ring may have failed. This is rare with a new installation but can happen if the toilet was moved or the floor settled. Tighten the bolts gently if the toilet rocks, but do not overtighten or you can crack the porcelain. If the problem persists, call a professional to reset the toilet. Our crew will answer any questions you have after the installation and give you tips for keeping it working well.