Water Trade Service plumbing and water installation in Mooresville, NC area

When To Replace Your Toilet

The toilet is the most used and abused part of your home. It’s a shame, really, because it’s actually the easiest part of your house to take care of.

But do you know 75% of all household plumbing problems are caused by a clogged toilet?

However, many homeowners don’t realize that a clogged toilet can be one of the biggest maintenance headaches you’ll ever face—and It’s probably not something you should handle on your own.

A clogged toilet can cause an incredible amount of damage to your home. From overflowing sewage to rotting floorboards, there are many reasons why you should hire toilet replacement professionals when faced with a clogged toilet problem. 

If you are considering a new toilet, it’s important to know the signs and causes of a clogged toilet and how to install it.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about replacing your toilet—including reasons it’s time for a new one, how much toilet replacement costs, and how to install it on your own or call a toilet installation expert in Mooresville, NC.

So, without wasting another minute, let’s move on to the details.

Why You Need a New Toilet?

Your toilet is an important part of your home. You use it every day, and it’s not just for pooping. It’s also a place for bathing and washing your hands!

But if you’re constantly dealing with clogged toilets, then you know that those have to be replaced.

And the good news is that there are so many reasons why you need new toilets.

Here are some of our favorites:

Efficiency and Water Conservation

Most toilets use 3 gallons of water per flush. If your toilet was installed before 1992 (which is when low-flow toilets were introduced), it’s probably using a lot more than that. In fact, many older toilets use 7 gallons per flush! That’s a lot of wasted water—and wasted money. A new toilet can help you conserve both water and money on your utility bills by using less water per flush and requiring less maintenance overall.

Constant Clogging

If your toilet keeps getting clogged, it’s doing something wrong, which means it’s time for an upgrade! Look for models with larger trapways (the opening at the bottom of the bowl) that allow for easier flow through the pipes. Also, be sure to check out products from manufacturers like Kohler and American Standard. They have specific lines explicitly designed for this problem!

Frequent Repairs

It’s no secret that toilets are prone to frequent repairs. Most people will probably have to replace their toilet at least once in their lifetime, and some will have to do it more than once. If your toilet is constantly having problems, it might be time for a replacement.

Cracks or Leaks

If your toilet has cracks or leaks, you should consider replacing it right away. These issues can cause serious damage to the foundation of your house and can even lead to mold growth if not fixed for too long. This type of damage can cost thousands of dollars in repairs or replacement costs, so getting it fixed as soon as possible is always a good idea!

Outdated Design or Style

Are you tired of looking at a 1970s-style commode? Are you tired of having to sit on an uncomfortable seat every time you go? If your toilet is outdated and has an outdated design or style, it could be costing you more than just the water bill. A poorly designed toilet can actually cause damage to your bathroom floor and walls, especially if the seal between the toilet base & the floor isn’t tight enough. 

Well, we’ve got good news: there are plenty of new styles out there that are just as modern as they are comfortable. Toilet styles have also changed over time; some older models don’t include features that people today expect from their toilets, such as dual flush technology or automatic lid openers (if they even have lids at all). And if your current model is more than 10 years old, chances are it’s only going to get worse from here on out. It’s time for a change!

Accessibility and Comfort

If you have children at home who are still learning how to use the bathroom on their own, then having an accessible toilet is essential since they may need assistance from time to time when using the facilities (especially if they’re still young). Having an accessible toilet makes it easier for both parents and children by allowing them better access to each other at home.

Upgrading to Smart Features

Smart toilets have the ability to connect to your smartphone and rescue you from having to flush or clean the bowl manually. You can even control the temperature of your toilet seat!

The Environment

That old toilet is probably still using gallons of water every day—water that could be used for something better than flushing away your waste! Newer models save money on water usage, which means you’ll be helping the environment while also saving dollars on your utility bills each month!

How Do You Benefit From Toilet Replacement?

You know that feeling you get when you’re sick and tired of your toilet?

We’ve been there too. That’s why we’re here to tell you that it’s time to replace your toilet and experience the benefits of a new one.

From better comfort to more functionality, it’s time for a change. Here are just some of the many benefits of replacing your toilet:

Water conservation

You don’t have to be a homeowner to understand that toilets are expensive. And if you’re like most people, you probably don’t even think about how much water your toilet uses on a daily basis.

But consider this: according to the EPA, the average American household spends about $40 a year on toilet paper alone. That’s not counting the cost of flushing—which can be as much as $100 annually!

Also, the average toilet uses 1.6 gallons per flush, and upgrades can reduce that amount by up to one gallon per flush. That’s about 20 gallons of water saved per day!

Cost savings

Low-flow toilets cost anywhere from $25-$200 more than conventional models, but the money you’ll save on your water bill will quickly make up for the difference.

Improved functionality

Another benefit of toilet replacement is that it will improve the function of your toilet. This can be done by toilet seat replacement and toilet flapper replacement with new ones or by replacing the entire toilet if the old one has broken down completely.

Enhanced hygiene and comfort

A new toilet will enhance your bathroom’s hygiene and comfort. This can be done by toilet handle replacement or upgrading your current seat to one that has a soft close lid or other features like this, as well as by upgrading to a taller bowl so you don’t have to bend over so much when using the toilet (which can be uncomfortable).

Improved design options

Another benefit of upgrading from an older model is that many of today’s toilets offer design options that weren’t available before—you can now choose from sleek contemporary styles or traditional looks depending on what fits best in your home décor scheme!

What Tools and Materials You’ll Need for Toilet Replacement?

Toilet replacement is a big job, but it’s not impossible.

If you’re looking to replace your toilet, there are a few materials you must have on hand. Here are some tools and materials you will need before you start learning “how to install a toilet”:

  1. Adjustable wrench: For loosening and tightening bolts and nuts.
  2. Screwdriver: To remove screws or access certain parts of the toilet.
  3. Plunger: Useful for removing water from the toilet bowl before removal.
  4. Wax ring: Creates a watertight seal between the toilet and the floor drain.
  5. Toilet bolts and nuts: Required for securing the toilet to the floor.
  6. Putty knife: Helps in removing old wax rings and adhesive residues.
  7. Hacksaw: If needed, for cutting bolts or trimming the closet bolts.
  8. Bucket and sponge: Useful for removing excess water or cleaning spills.
  9. Level: Ensures the toilet is appropriately aligned and leveled on the floor.
  10. Teflon tape: Used for sealing threaded connections to prevent leaks.
  11. Gloves and safety goggles: For protection during the installation process.
  12. Caulk and caulking gun: Optional for sealing gaps between the toilet base and the floor.

How To Install A New Toilet?

If you’ve decided to install a new toilet in your home, you’re in for an exciting adventure. It’s actually a lot easier than it sounds! Here are nine steps that will help you get started:

Step 1: Gather the necessary tools and materials

First, gather all the tools and materials you’ll need to complete the job. You’ll want to ensure that your old toilet is disconnected from any pipes into or out of the home and ensure no leaks in your system. You’ll also want to have a bucket handy so that any excess water gets caught by something other than your flooring. Knowing what supplies will be necessary will help ensure you don’t forget anything important when starting your project.

Step 2: Remove the old toilet

Shut off the water supply to the toilet, flush it to drain the water, and disconnect the water supply line. Loosen and remove the nuts from the bolts securing the toilet to the floor. Lift the toilet off the floor and scrape away the old wax ring and any adhesive residues.

Step 3: Prepare the area

Inspect the floor flange (the opening in the floor where the toilet sits) for any damage or debris. Install a new wax ring onto the flange, ensuring it is centered and positioned correctly.

Step 4: Position the new toilet

Carefully place the new toilet bowl onto the wax ring, aligning the bolt holes with the closet bolts on the floor flange. Gently press down to compress the wax ring and create a seal.

Step 5: Secure the toilet

Insert the nuts on the closet bolts and tighten them by hand. Use a wrench to alternately tighten the nuts, ensuring even pressure, until the new toilet is securely fastened to the floor. Be cautious not to overtighten and crack the toilet.

Step 6: Connect the water supply

Now you will need to connect the water supply line to the fill valve on the bottom of the toilet tank. Ensure it is tightened securely but not overly tight. Turn on the water supply and check for any leaks.

Step 7: Install the toilet tank

If the toilet you purchased has a separate tank, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install it securely onto the bowl. Connect the water supply line to the fill valve in the tank.

Step 8: Test and adjust

Turn on the water supply in a slow manner and let the tank fill. Now, you will need to flush the toilet couple of times to make sure proper flushing and filling. Check for any leaks on the base or tank connections. Make any necessary adjustments to the fill valve or flush mechanism for optimal performance.

Step 9: Seal gaps (optional)

If desired, apply a bead of caulk around the toilet base to seal any gaps between the toilet and the floor. This helps provide a finished look and prevents moisture from seeping under the toilet.

How Long After Installation Can A Toilet Be Used?

A toilet can be used immediately after installation, but we recommend waiting 24 hours to flush. This gives the sewer pipes time to drain so that if there’re any leaks in the system, they will not enter your home.

If you use the toilet before 24 hours have passed, simply test for leaks by pouring a bit of food coloring into the bowl and waiting 5 minutes. If any color appears in the bowl’s water line, this simply means that there is a leak somewhere in your system.

DIY Vs. Professional Toilet Installation

As a homeowner, you are probably familiar with the concept of DIY (do-it-yourself). DIY is a term that refers to doing things around the house yourself instead of hiring someone else to do it for you. There are many reasons why people decide to do their own plumbing work and home maintenance instead of hiring a plumber or other professional. 

Some people simply want to save money by not paying someone else for a job they could do themselves. Others may not have enough time in their busy schedules to take off from work and hire someone else. Some homeowners may just prefer doing the job themselves because they enjoy working on home projects and feel like they have more authority over the outcome of their work if they do it themselves rather than hire someone else! 

Whatever your reason may be, there are some important considerations before deciding whether it’s better for your budget and schedule to hire a professional plumber or do it yourself!

Here’s a comparison chart outlining some key factors to consider when deciding between DIY (Do-It-Yourself) and professional toilet installation:

FactorsDIY InstallationProfessional Installation
CostLess expensive, no labor feesMore expensive labor fees apply
Skill level requiredModerate plumbing and handyman skillsProfessional expertise required
Time commitmentRequires time for research and installationProfessional completes installation efficiently
ConvenienceFlexibility to work at your own paceProfessional handles the entire process
Quality of workDependent on individual skillsProfessional guarantee and expertise
Warranty coverageSelf-installation may void certain warrantiesThe professional installation often maintains warranties
Safety risksPotential for errors and safety hazards if inexperiencedProfessionals trained for safety and code compliance
Plumbing expertiseDIYers need to research and learn plumbing techniquesProfessionals have specialized knowledge and experience
Problem resolutionDIYers are responsible for troubleshooting and fixing issuesProfessionals can address any complications effectively
Permits and codesDIYers must ensure compliance with local regulationsProfessionals knowledgeable about codes and permits

Let the Toilet Installation Experts in Mooresville, NC Help You!

If you’re in Mooresville, NC, and looking for a toilet installation service that can help you with all your requirements, look no further than Wicker Trade Service Inc.

We know how hard it can be to find the right company to do your installation—especially when you’re trying to choose between companies that don’t specialize in toilets and companies that do but aren’t local. That’s why we decided to start our own business: so we could offer high-quality Drain and Toilet Installation Services in Mooresville to customers all over the area.

Wicker Trade Service Inc is the place to go for all your toilet installation, repair, and replacement needs. We’re experts in all things drains and toilets, from installing new ones to fixing old ones and everything in between. We have been providing our customers with quality service for many years now, and we are proud to be one of the trusted plumbing companies in Mooresville, NC

Our team at Wicker Trade Service Inc is dedicated to serving our clients and getting them the results they want. We have years of experience in the industry, and we know how to get your bathroom looking great! We offer a wide variety of services, including:

  • Toilet Installation and toilet repair in Mooresville, NC
  • Clog removal and clog cleaning
  • Shower Installation
  • Sink Installation
  • Faucet Installation
  • Leak detection/repair
  • Sewer line repair
  • 24/7 Emergency Plumbing service

Our years of experience mean that we know how to handle all kinds of projects—whether it’s a clogged removal or just replacing one piece of bathroom equipment. We’ll work with you every step of the way so that everything goes smoothly and according to plan.
So when you want a clog removal service or need to install a new toilet, feel free to call our licensed plumbers at (704) 340-4810!

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