Of course, you can always call in a professional plumber or handyman to do the job, but this DIY plumbing job is actually pretty simple and a bathroom repair you can do on your own. Tackling the task of toilet installation yourself, or with a DIY–savvy friend, could save you a few hundred dollars.
No, it's not possible to install a toilet without plumbing. Toilets require a connection to the water supply for flushing and a drain pipe for waste disposal. Plumbing infrastructure is necessary to ensure proper functioning and adherence to building codes and sanitation standards.
You can replace a toilet yourself, but it is recommended to hire a professional plumber to ensure the job is done correctly.
A plumber might be more cost-effective in the long run if issues arise. In summary, if the homeowner feels confident and has the necessary tools, they can attempt the replacement. However, if they have any doubts, calling a plumber is the safer and more reliable option.
Properly licensed plumbers and handypeople are your best bet for toilet replacement because they can ensure it's properly installed and sealed to prevent leaks or other issues later on.
The labor cost for installing a toilet can range from $150 to $450 on average, but it can increase based on the complexity of the job and local labor rates.
A handyman is a “jack of all trades” and knows about so many different types of work, including plumbing. Most handymen (or handywomen) can tackle your every day to-do list, like replacing that leaky faucet, replacing your toilet or adjusting the temperature on your water heater.
Plumber Hourly Rates
This can range from $45 to $200 per hour, and the most common hourly charge is usually about $85 per hour. On average, plumbers may also charge a one-time service fee or inspection fee – such as arriving at the client's home to look at the work required.
Plumbing repairs require specialized tools and expertise that many homeowners don't have. This means it may take you much longer to complete the task than if you had hired a professional. Hiring a plumber will usually result in quicker turnaround times, saving you time and money in the long run.
For smaller jobs, like fixing a leaky faucet or unclogging a drain, a handyman is usually the more affordable choice. Handymen are great for simple repairs that don't require specialized skills, and they typically charge less than plumbers.
The cost of toilet installation at Home Depot can vary depending on several factors such as the type of toilet, location, and any additional services needed. On average, a basic toilet installation by Home Depot can cost between $122 and $240.
If you don't have the time or skill needed to complete this project yourself, Lowe's has you covered with our toilet installation service.
A toilet installation can take between 1 and 4 hours, although this may vary according to your expertise, experience, and the kind of toilet. We always recommend that you hire a reliable plumber for this kind of project because it is quite complex.
Of course, you can always call in a professional plumber or handyman to do the job, but this DIY plumbing job is actually pretty simple and a bathroom repair you can do on your own. Tackling the task of toilet installation yourself, or with a DIY–savvy friend, could save you a few hundred dollars.
But, the rule of thumb is to replace your toilet every 25 years, due to damage and regular wear and tear. If you have an older toilet, you should consider newer model toilets as they will be more efficient in conserving water and utility costs.
The average homeowner typically replaces their toilet every 10 to 15 years. However, when properly cared for, a toilet can last up to 50 years or longer. Toilets usually show signs that they need a repair or replacement, but some reach the end of their lifespan with little or no physical signs.
Plumbing requires precise, technical knowledge. We could cut expenses (and therefore costs to you) by hiring less-knowledgeable team members, but that's simply not our model. Rather, we hire only the most skilled technicians—plumbers who will treat your home like their own and do their absolute best work, every time.
Depending on the source of the issue, unclogging a toilet may require just a simple home remedy. Or, you may need a technician who's experienced in plumbing and sewage line repair. We'll look at some possible DIY solutions and when your best option is to call a trustworthy local plumber.
There's a shortage of skilled plumbers, and the really good ones are in high demand. When I owned a vacation rental cabin in a remote village, there was one competent plumber in town. I had to work hard to be the kind of customer he wanted to call back, because I know he didn't need my business.
Replacing a toilet costs between $275 and $480 in most cases, and the average cost sits around $375.
Most handymen charge between $50 and $80 per hour, making an average of $150 to $600 per job. Rates depend on their specialty, experience, level of education, and whether the handyman is insured, requires specialized equipment, or services rural locations.
Charging by the hour is the standard in the plumbing industry. However, some plumbers will charge flat rates for simple tasks that they do routinely, such as unclogging a drain, fixing a running toilet, or solving some other common household plumbing problem.
These issues may be caused by worn-out internal components, improper installation, or structural damage. If you're experiencing any of these signs, consult with a professional plumber that specializes in toilet services to ensure the problem is properly addressed and resolved.
The most common method for unclogging a toilet is to use a plunger—but other tools like toilet snakes and wet/dry vacuums can also be helpful. In a pinch, you can even use a coat hanger! Some simple chemical solutions can also be useful.
Complex Installation: Replacing a toilet involves more than just physical labor. It requires knowledge of plumbing systems, the ability to ensure a proper seal with the floor flange, and the skill to connect the water supply without leaks.