In this section of Home Improvement, I will explain how to install a toilet (DIY) with toilet installation tips and toilet setting advice.

This article should help you if you want to just replace your old existing toilet with a new model or you are setting a new toilet. If you plan to replace an existing toilet with a new one, it is comparatively easier because the supply pipes and drain pipes are already there. But if you are installing a new toilet is a new location or construction, you may have to extend supply pipes and drainpipes to the spot where the toilet has to be installed. Laying of supply pipes and drainpipes should be done by a professional plumbing contractor.

When you buy a new toilet, you get all the necessary gaskets, washers, and hardware for fitting the tank to the bowl. Additionally you may also need few other parts such as hold-down bolts, a wax gasket for sealing the drain, and a flexible water-supply tube for connecting the tank to the shutoff valve. You can get these from any toilet hardware store. You may also need a Home Improvement Tool Kit with Essential Tools.

Let us know understand how to install a toilet.

Because I don’t know whether your are replacing an old toilet with a new one or you want to install a new toilet in a new location, I am assuming that you are going to replace an old toilet with a new one. This should also help you even if are going to install a new toilet in a new construction or location:

1. Turn off the water at the shutoff valve and flush the toilet to empty the bowl and tank. Disconnect the water-supply tube from the shutoff valve and drain water from the tube into any container or bucket. Unscrew the coupling nut on the supply tube at the bottom of the tank.

2. Using a screwdriver and an adjustable wrench unbolt all the mounting bolts and remove the old tank and the bowl. Take care while removing the bowl from the floor.

3. Stuff a rag into the drainpipe to prevent sewer gas from escaping into the house. Using an old putty knife, scrape the wax gasket remains from the floor flange.

4. Place the new bowl upside-down on a cushioned surface and fix a new wax gasket over the horn on the bottom of the bowl. Refer to the installation manual.

5. Now remove the rag from the drainpipe and carefully lower the bowl into place and press down firmly. Make sure the bowl is straight.

6. Now tighten all the washers and nuts onto the bolts. Make sure the toilet is seated firmly on the floor but do not over- tighten or the bowl may crack.

7. Place the tank over the bowl and tighten the nuts and washers onto the mounting bolts. Hook up the supply tubes and open the shutoff valve.

You are done with a new toilet installation.