How to Install a Toilet

Are you renovating a bathroom? Do you plan on doing a makeover soon? My parents have been working on remodeling their bathroom for a while now.

The two pieces left to change out are the toilet and shower. Since my dad is a carpenter by trade, he has done all of the woodwork, flooring, and painting himself.

Therefore, I decided that a new toilet would make a great Father's Day gift—even if he did have to take part in installing it.

I am pretty sure my dad thought I was kidding when I showed him the picture of the Delta toilet on Father's Day.

But because the toilet had not yet been delivered. I at least wanted to let him know his gift was on the way. In his true fashion, he laughed.

But, when Colby and I delivered the Elongated Water Saving Toilet, he knew it was really going to happen. Next step? Installing the toilet.

Toilet Installation

Colby and my dad found some time on a Saturday afternoon to install the toilet, and it looked great when they finished.

Plus, it didn't take them too long, and the process was easy. After removing the old toilet using a toilet removal kit from Delta, the rest of the installation went pretty simple.

Proper toilet installation involves several key steps, beginning with the safe removal of the old toilet, if applicable. This includes shutting off the water supply, draining the tank and bowl, and disconnecting the water line.

Next, the old wax ring must be removed and the flange inspected for damage. The new toilet is then prepared, which includes attaching the new wax ring.

Careful placement of the toilet onto the flange, ensuring proper alignment with the closet bolts, is crucial.

Following that, securing the toilet to the floor with washers and nuts, connecting the water supply, and testing for leaks are the final, vital stages.

We'll break it down step-by-step, so keep reading!

While it is possible for many homeowners to perform this task on their own, if there is any doubt about your abilities, it is always best to hire a professional plumber.

Install Flange and Bolts

Install the flange, or if using the old flange, replace the bolts. Align the bolts so that they are parallel to the wall behind where the toilet will sit.

Place Wax Ring

Press the wax ring onto the underside of the bowl around the flange. The raised rubber part of the wax seal will fit into the drain on the floor, so it should be pointed out.

Mount Toilet Bowl

Line the outer rim of the underside of the toilet bowl with silicone. Then, align the holes of the bowl with the flange bolts as you turn the toilet bowl over to mount.

Carefully place toilet over flange and make sure rubber seal properly fits into drain. Install proper washers, discs, and nuts onto mounting bolts.

Make sure the toilet is square, and then gently push the toilet down to set the wax seal and flange. Tighten the washers and nuts, but don't overtighten. Remove any excess silicone.

Install the Tank

Remove the nut, washer, and grommet from the fill valve on the underside of the tank. Install a tank gasket over the tank outlet.

Align the mounting bolts on the underside of the tank with the mounting holes on the tank. Ensure the tank gasket is properly fitted into the water inlet on the toilet bowl.

Fit washers and buts onto bolts under the tank and tighten. Do not overtighten.

Connect Water Supply Line

Connect the water supply line to the threaded inlet on the underside of your tank. Connect the water line to the valve (in the off position) if using a new line.

Install Toilet Seat

Line bracket holes with mounting holes in the toilet. Place molly bolts through the bracket into the toilet. Tighten securely. Don't overtighten.

Line the toilet lid up with the bracket and then snap it into place. The toilet lid we have is made to snap off easily for cleaning. By squeezing the two red pieces together, the toilet lid can be easily removed and then replaced.

Fill Tank

Make sure to remove any paper or other objects from the inside of the tank. Turn on the water supply at the wall and let the tank fill. Check for leaks.

Flush the toilet and let it cycle to observe water levels. Adjust using the water level adjustment rod and float as needed.

An adjustment to the chain may be needed if water does not empty from the bowl after a full cycle.

Cover Tank

Once the water levels and functionality of the toilet check out, place the cover on the tank. You are now free to use the toilet!

My parents were both pleased with the finished product and are excited about being one step closer to being finished. In fact, it even inspired them to do a second toilet install in their guest bathroom.

It was a win-win for all of us, considering their house is our central meeting place most weekends. And, of course, everyone had to take turns sitting on the toilet—fully clothed—just to give it a try. Comfortable and perfect height were the two most used descriptions.