Are you planning to replace your old toilet with a new one? Or perhaps you’re a DIY enthusiast who wants to take on the challenge of installing a toilet yourself? Either way, one of the essential questions you need to ask is how long it takes to install a toilet properly.

The answer to this question depends on various factors, including the type of toilet you’re installing, your level of expertise, and the condition of your bathroom. In this article, we’ll explore these factors in-depth and provide you with a comprehensive guide on how long it takes to install a toilet.

Factors to Consider

Before we dive into the installation process, let’s take a look at the different factors that affect how long it takes to install a toilet.

Types of Toilets

There are two main types of toilets: standard and wall-mounted. Standard toilets are the most common type and are installed on the floor using bolts and screws. Wall-mounted toilets, on the other hand, are mounted on the wall and have a concealed tank. Installing a wall-mounted toilet requires more time and expertise due to the additional steps involved.

Another factor to consider is the type of toilet bowl you’re installing. Round bowls are smaller and take less time to install than elongated bowls, which are larger and require more precision during installation.

Skills and Experience of the Installer

The level of expertise of the person installing the toilet also plays a significant role in how long the installation process takes. If you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a professional plumber, you may be able to install a toilet quickly and efficiently. However, if you’re a novice, it may take you longer to complete the installation process, and you may encounter more challenges along the way.

The installer’s familiarity with the tools and techniques involved in toilet installation is also crucial. Some tools, such as a wrench and a screwdriver, are essential for the installation process, and the installer should know how to use them correctly.

Condition of the Bathroom

The condition of your bathroom can also affect how long it takes to install a toilet. If your bathroom is small, cluttered, or has limited space, the installation process may take longer due to the difficulty of maneuvering the toilet and its components. Additionally, if your bathroom has existing plumbing issues or structural problems, these may need to be addressed before the toilet installation can begin, further delaying the process.

Preparation

Before you begin the installation process, you’ll need to prepare your bathroom and gather the necessary tools and materials. Here are the steps you should follow:

Checking the Toilet and its Components

Before installing the new toilet, you should inspect it and its components to ensure that they’re in good condition. Check the toilet bowl and tank for any cracks, chips, or defects that could affect the installation process or the toilet’s performance.

Clearing the Area

Clear the area where you plan to install the toilet. Remove any obstacles, such as bathroom mats, trash cans, and cleaning supplies. This will give you enough space to maneuver the toilet and its components during installation.

Shutting off the Water Supply

Before removing the old toilet, you need to shut off the water supply to the toilet. Locate the shut-off valve, which is usually located behind the toilet or near the bathroom’s main water valve, and turn it clockwise to shut off the water flow.

Removing the Old Toilet

To remove the old toilet, start by disconnecting the water supply line from the bottom of the tank. Use a wrench to loosen the nut and then gently pull the line away from the tank. Next, remove the nuts that secure the toilet bowl to the floor and lift the bowl away from the flange.

Installation Process

Now that you’ve prepared your bathroom and removed the old toilet, it’s time to begin the installation process. Here are the steps you should follow:

Placing the Wax Ring

Place the wax ring on the flange at the bottom of the toilet drain. The wax ring creates a watertight seal between the toilet and the drain. Ensure that the wax ring is centered on the flange and is not tilted or misaligned.

Securing the Toilet Bowl

Lower the toilet bowl onto the wax ring and align it with the flange bolts. Gently press down on the bowl to compress the wax ring and create a tight seal. Once the bowl is in place, secure it to the floor with nuts and bolts. Tighten the nuts with a wrench, but be careful not to overtighten them, as this could damage the bowl or the flange.

Installing the Tank and its Components

Attach the tank to the bowl using bolts and nuts, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Install the flush valve and fill valve into the tank, making sure that they’re properly aligned and tightened.

Connecting the Water Supply

Connect the water supply line to the fill valve and turn on the water supply. Check for any leaks around the connection points and tighten the nuts if necessary. Finally, test the toilet by flushing it a few times to ensure that it’s working correctly.

With these steps, you should have successfully installed your new toilet. The entire process can take anywhere from 1-4 hours, depending on the factors we discussed earlier. Remember to take your time, follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and seek professional help if you encounter any challenges.

Finishing Touches

Once you’ve completed the installation process, there are a few final touches you need to make to ensure that your toilet is functioning correctly. These include:

Tightening the Bolts

After you’ve installed the toilet bowl and the tank, you need to tighten the bolts that secure the toilet to the floor. Ensure that the toilet is level and stable before tightening the bolts to avoid any wobbling or shifting.

Sealing the Base

To prevent leaks, you need to seal the base of the toilet bowl using a wax ring. Place the wax ring on the flange and press the toilet bowl onto it, ensuring that it’s properly aligned. Apply pressure to the base to ensure that the wax ring adheres to the toilet and the flange.

Checking for Leaks

Before you turn on the water supply, it’s essential to check for leaks. Check the base of the toilet bowl, the connections between the tank and the bowl, and the water supply line for any signs of water leakage. If you notice any leaks, tighten the connections and recheck until there are no leaks.

Cleaning up the Area

After you’ve checked for leaks and confirmed that the toilet is functioning correctly, clean up the area around the toilet. Remove any debris or leftover materials and wipe down the toilet and the surrounding area to ensure that it’s clean and hygienic.

Conclusion

Proper installation of a toilet is essential to ensure that it functions correctly and doesn’t cause any problems in the future. The time it takes to install a toilet depends on various factors, including the type of toilet, the installer’s expertise, and the condition of the bathroom.

When installing a toilet, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and take your time to ensure that each step is completed correctly. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your toilet is installed correctly and functions correctly for years to come. Remember, investing the time and effort into proper toilet installation can save you from costly repairs and replacements down the line.