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Replacing a toilet typically takes two to four hours. Several factors can impact this timeline, including the condition of the old toilet, flange, flooring, and pipes. If a professional discovers issues like a cracked flange, damaged flooring, leaky pipes, or a broken wax ring, the installation will take longer. Additionally, some toilets, such as wall-mounted or in-wall-tank models, are more complex to install and may require cutting into and repairing drywall, which adds to the project time. Given the weight of toilets and the importance of proper placement, it is often best to hire a professional for the job.

No, the pink ring in your toilet bowl isn’t a hard water stain but a type of bacteria called Serratia marcescens. This bacteria can also cause pinkish stains in other areas of your bathroom, like around your tub, shower curtains, and faucets. Thankfully, it’s considered to be harmless. However, if you or anyone in your household is immunocompromised, it can cause issues like urinary tract infections. You can clean the pink ring with bleach and a plastic brush. Wear gloves and goggles when using bleach, and always work in a well-ventilated room.

Yes, you should screw your flange to the subfloor, including cement. The best way to get this done is to predrill holes into the concrete using a hammer drill and a ¼-inch concrete bit. Be careful when you’re ready to bolt your flange down, as you can accidentally crack it. You can avoid this issue by not installing the screws too deep. Or, you can opt for a flange with a stainless steel ring so you don’t have to worry about cracking the plastic.

You should replace your toilet at least every 25 years. While toilets are pretty sturdy appliances, they don’t last forever. Even if you aren’t ready to invest in the cost of a bathroom remodel yet, just replacing your toilet will help freshen up your space and keep your bathroom functioning.