While it may seem unsavory, a toilet replacement is one of the easiest and most cost effective do-it-yourself projects around. Toilets are extremely affordable especially if you don’t get caught up in the hype of low-flow, aesthetically pleasing appliances. In the end, they all accomplish the same function. Need I say more?

Here are the basics for a toilet replacement in almost any residential or commercial setting.

1. First, build the toilet. Attach the base to the tank. Then, follow the instructions included inside the box and install the drain, the valve assembly and the flush mechanism.
2. Next, in preparation for removal and installation, turn the water off. There is a valve conveniently located on the wall near the base of the toilet. Make sure that it is turned perpendicular to the pipe. That’s it. You have now taken all the necessary precautions for the easy installation of the toilet.
3. Now, remove the old toilet. Two bolts on the floor and the aforementioned water supply are the only connections. Disconnect these three items and the toilet is ready for removal. This disconnection is as easy as it sounds.
4. The final step before seating the new toilet is to prep the waste pipe and install the two seating screws. Place a new O-ring on the waste pipe and prop the screws in an upright position. While this job can theoretically be done by one person, it is extremely helpful at this point to have someone help guide the screws through the holes in the new toilet.
5. At this point, all that is left to do is tighten the two screws, cover them with the included overlays and reattach the water supply. Be careful not to tighten the screws too much as you can easily crack a ceramic toilet.

A toilet replacement is within the reach of any handy man or woman. Take your time and follow the guidelines outlined above and you will have no trouble.