Get matched with top toilet pros in Volo, IL

Replacing a standard toilet with an elongated one is straightforward. The two types can be installed using the same existing drainpipe and plumbing. If you have a small bathroom, make sure that an elongated toilet doesn’t violate local building codes for clearance, which is the space between fixtures and walls. 

If you’ve accessed the bolts and nuts that hold your toilet seat in place and can’t unscrew them, it’s possible that they were overtightened or that the material corroded over time, making it impossible to unscrew. If that’s the case, you can either call in a plumber for help, or you can DIY a solution if you’re careful. Lay down masking tape around the mounting bracket and then use the tape as a surface to lay a hack saw blade. Move slowly to cut through the bracket and bolt, being careful not to damage the porcelain in the process.

You should choose the type of toilet that meets your budget, fits properly in your space, and matches the rest of your decor. If you’ve never gone toilet shopping before, you might be surprised at how many options are available. Most homeowners choose a two-piece toilet, which is the industry standard, and a gravity flush system is the most common. However, dual-flush and low-flush toilets are becoming more prevalent as more people become conscious of water consumption.

The cost to install a new toilet typically runs from $225 to $530. This doesn’t include the price of the toilet itself, which can cost $90 to $1,500 depending on the model and features you choose. You can save money if you choose to install a toilet yourself. However, you might want to hire a pro for this project.

"Due to the many complexities of replacing a toilet flange, it is typically a job best left to the pros," says Jeff Botelho, Angi Expert Review Board member and plumber. "Many times it isn't as simple and straightforward as 'pop off the old one and pop on a new one' because the flange is either glued on (PVC/ABS), soldered on (brass/copper), or caulked in place with a lead & oakum joint (cast iron) and none of these things can be easily reversed without years of training and repetitive practice."