By: Benedict Smythe
The bathroom can be one of the more troublesome spots for DIY or do it yourself enthusiasts, because not only would you be dealing with a fairly limited space, but also, nearly everything in it has been fixed, or had installed in a permanent manner. Pneumatic drills, concrete nails and other such installation methods mean you would be dealing with concrete or granite when you want to install something. In any case, it is still possible, so go ahead and DIY freely.
The installation of toilet bowls is one of the most difficult DIY projects in the bathroom area. Just how does one install a new toilet bowl? Follow these simple steps and watch your new bathroom toilet stand high and proud.
The steps
1.) First locate the water source for your new toilet bowl. Often, water pipes have been laid down near the base of the ground, or have been semi-fixed on the floor. Make sure that the water valve has been turned off before you attempt to work with water pipes. After you have located a workable point with the water source, measure the distance to your new toilet bowl. Remember, make exact measurements. Cut the needed length for the new toilet bowl.
2.) The flange for the new installation should be installed as well. Slip it over the pipe and begin installing the valve, too. Toilets operate with what we call compression washers; install the compression washer and make sure that the whole assemblage is secured tightly. No leaks means less water wasted.
3.) The drain plug for the new toilet should be cleaned thoroughly of any debris that might hinder the passage of water. Papers and small plastic pieces should be removed. After the cleaning, the flange should be finally secured.
4.) Wax seals are included to make sure that the base of the toilet bowl and therefore, the water and all its future contents would not spill unto the surface of the bathroom. Place the wax seal on the toilet correctly as well.
5.) Silicon caulk or other similar bonding agents can be placed in addition to the wax seal to make sure what has to go down, will go down, and not out.
6.) If you have no one to help you out in this particular do it yourself project, it’s alright. The task can be done splendidly by even just one person. The success depends largely on your own familiarity with your bathroom and the basic principles of plumbing. If you followed the instructions here to the letter, then there is now way that you are going to fail. Have fun while doing it, as well.
7.) The toilet must be aligned to the nearest centimeter with the wax seal. Failure to do so might cause the toilet to flop over or leak. The correct measurements should have been done well before the toilet seat if finally lowered into its final place in the bathroom.
8.) If your toilet bowl has retaining bolts, install them all. Retaining bolts prevent your toilet bowl from falling sideways or flopping over. In some instances, the weight becomes a factor, so never ignore these little bolts. Your safety and the success of this DIY project depend on these little details.
