"Repairman, Juan, did an awesome job of repairing my toilet. He was very polite and pleasant to be around. I would highly recommend Juan from Home Defense Plumbing. He was awesome!!!!"
If you have to hold the toilet handle (also called the toilet lever) down to flush, you probably have a chain problem. A chain that cannot fully lift the flapper will close too early and not clear the toilet bowl. Try adjusting the chain length so there’s about ½ inch of slack.
Most toilets have a 12-inch rough-in or hole, but some have 10- or 14-inch holes, which means that not all toilets fit all setups. Knowing how to measure the rough-in is essential, so you purchase a toilet that fits the existing drain hole. It can be costly to have the rough-in moved, and most stores don’t accept toilet returns.
Yes, and no. Your shower, toilet, and sink all connect to the same main drain, but the secondary drains going from each fixture to the main drain are usually separate. This isn’t always the case—especially in older homes—but since toilets contain black water and showers, tubs, and sinks have grey water, toilets are more regulated and come at a greater risk of contamination. It’s best to keep these drains separate using individual waste collection for this reason.
The main causes for a leaky toilet flapper include wear and tear or a broken or incorrectly installed toilet flapper chain. If your toilet flapper is torn or deteriorated, it can’t provide a proper seal to keep water from running. Meanwhile, a chain that has come loose, was moved, or just wasn’t installed right can prevent your flapper from fully closing.
The main cause of bathroom leaks is seals and connectors that loosen or deteriorate over time, causing leaks to develop. It's important to stay on top of your bathroom materials, as toilets, showers, and sinks all have different lifespans. Toilets and faucets last between 10 and 15 years on average with regular maintenance, but different parts may have shorter lifespans than others.
The Mullen, NE homeowners’ guide to toilet services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Everyone can relate to having toilet issues—we’ve all been there. There are several reasons why your toilet might need repairs, and the cost varies based on the damage.
Toilets are a mainstay of American bathrooms, but is it time for a bidet? Before you decide, here’s everything you need to know about bidets versus toilets.
Remodeling a bathroom? Toilet dimensions matter more than you think. This guide will tell you everything you need to know—from seat height to clearance.
Understanding the types of toilets you can install in your bathroom is essential. You don’t have to stick to traditional two-piece gravity-flush toilets.
Before purchasing and installing a new toilet, you need to know the toilet rough-in measurement to ensure proper integration. Here’s how to get it done.