How Hard Is It to Replace a Toilet?

Replacing a toilet can range from moderately challenging to very difficult, depending on your skills and experience. On a scale of 0 to 100 where 0 is easy and 100 is impossible, the difficulty level typically falls around 5.4 for most DIY enthusiasts.

Moderately Challenging for DIY Enthusiasts

While replacing a toilet is usually within the grasp of many do-it-yourself (DIY) enthusiasts, it does require some caution and precision. The hardest part of the process is often reconnecting the water supply. Other key steps involve ensuring a proper seal with the wax ring and aligning the toilet bowl with the floor flange. To avoid leaks or damage, it's crucial to follow instructions carefully and use the appropriate tools.

Professional Expertise for Optimal Results

However, if you are not a plumber, attempting to replace a toilet could be very difficult and ill-advised. In such cases, it is recommended to call a professional plumber to ensure the job is done to government-regulated standards. A professional plumber will have the knowledge, tools, and experience to tackle the task efficiently and safely.

Common Challenges in Toilet Replacement

Swapping out a US toilet can be one of the easiest big fixes a person can undertake, often requiring no more than an adjustable wrench. Yet, plumbing can present a multitude of challenges. Here is a typical sequence of steps and common issues to consider:

Best Case Scenario

Nothing is old and corroded. The floor is perfectly flat and solid. The toilet mounting flange is perfectly installed. The water supply hose and the old tank unbolt easily. The stool also unbolts easily (these bolts can be tricky). The new wax ring seal fits well, and the stool sits perfectly on the floor and flange. The tank supply hose attaches themselves easily.

Unfortunately, this ideal scenario is not always the case. Common issues can include:

Old and corroded parts. A non-perfectly flat or solid floor. A poorly installed toilet mounting flange. Difficult-to-remove old tank bolts. Problems with the new wax ring seal.

When Expert Help Is a Must

For those who are certain they can take on the task, DIY toilet replacement may be achievable. However, if you are in doubt, it is best to seek professional help. Alternatively, if you are bent on doing it yourself, find a strong friend and reward them with pizza and beer to ensure the job is done right. Remember, a poorly installed toilet can lead to multiple issues down the line, including water damage and leaks.

Conclusion

The difficulty of replacing a toilet varies, but it is generally manageable for DIY enthusiasts with the right tools and guidance. For those without the necessary skills or experience, professional help is the best option to ensure a successful and trouble-free installation. Whichever path you choose, take the time to research and prepare to avoid any unnecessary complications.