How to Install a Toilet Seat
Do you want to know how to install a toilet seat? This comprehensive guide provides you with easy-to-follow steps on how to install a DIY toilet seat for your new toilet seat at home.
Contrary to what you might think, installing a toilet seat is one of the easiest tasks you can do unaided.
There are several reasons why you might want to install a toilet seat. Sometimes you may need to replace a broken toilet. Or maybe you want to give your bathroom a new look. However, installing a new toilet just takes time and the necessary tools.
Alternatively, you can hire a plumber to install a new toilet, which will incur additional costs. In such situations, having the appropriate skills can be a great advantage.
So without further ado, let’s get straight into it.
HOW TO INSTALL A TOILET SEAT?
Installing a new toilet seat involves several steps. In addition to gathering all the tools and equipment, you need to take certain measurements and calculate the corresponding costs. Additionally, you will need to select the new seat to install.
Before installation can begin, special preparatory arrangements must be made. Fortunately, most of the tools necessary for this job are usually available at home and at hardware stores.
1. TAKING MEASUREMENTS
Most toilet seats have specific dimensions to fit specific toilet models. Never forget to take proper measurements before choosing the toilet to install. However, measuring the current size of the toilet seat will ensure that the new seat will fit the area well.
Fortunately, most toilets have standard sizes, making replacement more convenient. However, some toilets are larger or smaller to accommodate specific needs.
Use a tape measure to check the distance between the holes in the toilet bowl. The standard measurement should be 5 ½ inches. Next, make sure the hole spacing of the new seat is the same. This will save you unnecessary hassle later after purchasing the seat.
Next, please measure the width of the bowl at the widest point. Finally, measure the length of the bowl. This is the distance between the seat bolts and the outside edge of the front of the bowl. It should be noted that elongated bowls reach around 18 inches, while round bowls are closer to 16 ½ inches.
2. SELECTING THE TOILET
There are two basic types of toilet seats and several brands available on the market. First, choose between the standard round bowl and the oblong variant. Standard toilets are made of durable plastic, but there are other options such as enamel, wood, bamboo, fiberboard, etc.
Also look for quiet-closing seats with special bottom pads that prevent the top from hitting the toilet bowl. These types of seating are becoming more and more popular these days.
Specialty toilets have new features such as heated or elevated seats. These toilets may have tricky installation requirements that you should check beforehand.
Toilet seats are also available in several different colors. However, for a traditional look, it’s best to choose one that matches the bowl. Alternatively, you can also use contrasting colors for a bolder appearance.
Once you’ve made your decision, it’s time to remove the seat. But before you get down to business, you need to have some tools handy. These include an adjustable wrench or pliers, a flathead screwdriver, spray oil, and a small hacksaw.
3. REMOVING THE OLD SEAT
First, clean the toilet bowl and rim thoroughly. Next, locate the seat bolts that attach the seat to the bowl. You should now see the end of one of the plastic screws attached to the back of the bowl. If there are bolt caps, use a screwdriver to remove them.
Likewise, the toilet seat nuts that attach to the old bolts are on the back, one on each side of the toilet bowl. Using an adjustable wrench, loosen the nuts by turning them counterclockwise. Then remove the nuts from the washers and bolts.
If the screws at the base of the hinges support your screwdriver, use them to loosen them by turning them counterclockwise. And on older toilets, the screws can get stuck, which may require you to use a spray oil like WD-40 lubricant.
Assuming they don’t move even after spraying oil, carefully cut the bolts with a hacksaw. After removing the screws, lift the old seat and its hinges off the toilet.
4. INSTALLING THE NEW SEAT
First, attach the toilet base to the floor, then attach the tank to the base, and finally connect the water supply to fill the toilet with water. After removing all packaging from the new seat, place it on its edge, aligning its hinges with the screw holes. Next, insert the bolts into the holes and hinges. Remember that the head of the bolt must be up to prevent it from falling out.
Place the nuts on the bolts under the seat and use the adjustable wrench to tighten them as tightly as possible. If the seat comes with washers, install these onto the bolts before inserting the nuts.
Additionally, if the hinges have plastic caps, lock them into place by pressing them onto the screw heads. Make sure the seat is secure by shaking it and opening and closing the lid several times.
It should be noted that on some models it may not be necessary to screw in the bolts through the hinges. In such cases, you should insert the screws directly into the holes on both sides of the toilet bowl.
Then secure them with the nuts. The toilet seat hinges slide or snap onto the screw heads.
FAQs about how to install a toilet seat:
Q: How do I install a toilet seat?
To install a toilet seat, you will need to:
- Gather your tools and materials. You will need a screwdriver, a wrench, and a new toilet seat.
- Turn off the water supply to the toilet.
- Flush the toilet to empty the tank.
- Remove the old toilet seat. There are usually two bolts that hold the seat in place. Use a wrench to loosen and remove these bolts.
- Clean the toilet bowl and the mounting ring. This will help to ensure a good seal.
- Position the new toilet seat over the mounting ring. Make sure that the seat is aligned correctly.
- Secure the toilet seat with the bolts. Tighten the bolts securely, but be careful not to overtighten them.
- Turn on the water supply to the toilet.
- Test the toilet seat to make sure it is secure.
Q: What tools do I need to install a toilet seat?
You will need the following tools to install a toilet seat:
- A screwdriver
- A wrench
Q: How long does it take to install a toilet seat?
Installing a toilet seat can take anywhere from 15 minutes to 30 minutes, depending on your level of experience.
Q: What are the risks of installing a toilet seat?
There are a few risks associated with installing a toilet seat, including:
- Injury:** There is a risk of injury if you are not careful when working with tools.
- Electrical shock:** There is a risk of electrical shock if you work on the toilet seat while it is still connected to the electrical supply.
Q: How much does it cost to install a toilet seat?
The cost of installing a toilet seat varies depending on the type of seat and the cost of labor in your area. In general, you can expect to pay between $10 and $20 for a new toilet seat and between $20 and $40 for labor.
If you are not comfortable installing the seat yourself, you can call a plumber.
I hope this helps. Is there anything else I can help you with?
Here are some additional tips for installing a toilet seat:
- Make sure you buy a toilet seat that is compatible with your toilet.
- Follow the instructions that come with the new toilet seat carefully.
- Be careful not to overtighten the bolts.
- Test the toilet seat to make sure it is secure.
INSTALLING YOUR TOILET
Whether you want to renovate the bathroom or the old toilet seat has become unusable, you need to know how to replace a toilet seat. Finally, it can help you save time and money. However, hiring a professional plumber ensures that the job is done correctly.
Luckily, installing a new device is possible in under an hour with a few simple tools. Toilet seats come in different materials and colors, making the process even more exciting and rewarding.
If you live in Jacksonville and need help installing a toilet seat, contact our professional local plumbers today!
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