Replacing a toilet is a straightforward task for a professional plumber. On average, it takes about two to three hours to remove the old toilet and install the new one.
Average Time for Professional Installation
For an experienced professional, installing a toilet typically takes around 1 to 2 hours. Professionals have the expertise and tools required to work efficiently, ensuring a smooth installation process.
In essence, that depends on your skill level and experience, plus the type of toilet you have. If you've done this before, it should be a piece of cake. However, if it's your first time, and depending on the complexity of the job, it could take anything from one to four hours on average.
Toilet Replacement Labor
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. The basic labor usually includes removing the old toilet, installing the new one, and connecting it to existing water and drain lines.
A newly installed toilet can typically be used immediately after installation. However, it's recommended to wait about 24 hours for the caulking and sealant to fully set before using it to ensure a proper and watertight connection.
It is fairly easy to tell if you have a properly sealed wax ring; your toilet will not wobble, will be stable, and will have no water leaks. A few specific things to check include the height of your toilet flange, the stability of the toilet, and whether the floor around the base of the toilet remains dry.
Typical Drying Time Of Bathroom Sealant
For bathroom silicone sealant, it usually takes around 24 hours to dry. Although silicone or caulk sealants get touch dry within an hour and won't attract dust or debris, it is advisable that you wait longer before exposing them to water.
An experienced handyperson can likely replace your toilet.
Like we mentioned, a toilet does have a lifespan. While they can last a very long time, it depends entirely on the owner's maintenance. On average, toilets can last up to 50 years if they are properly maintained. But, the rule of thumb is to replace your toilet every 25 years, due to damage and regular wear and tear.
Reasons to Caulk Around a Toilet
Moisture Prevention: Without caulk around the toilet base, external water can seep under the toilet, leading to floor and subfloor damage over time. This is especially important in bathrooms with wooden floors, as prolonged exposure to moisture can lead to rot and structural issues.
Toilets usually include a wax ring. However, it's best to purchase a backup wax ring in case of damage during installation. You can also use a wax-free ring. These types of rings fix on the flange, rather than the toilet outlet.
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.
A licensed plumber will ensure your new toilet is properly hooked up and the plumbing lines are in good shape. A plumber can also perform any major repairs, such as drainpipe replacement. If the floor or wall sustains any damage during the installation, you'll want to bring in a flooring and drywall contractor.
One of the most used fixtures in your home, the toilet, on average has a lifespan of 10-15 years. For being used as often as it is, the toilet can withstand a lot. Unfortunately, there will come a time when you need to replace your toilet.
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.
When the federal government mandated that new toilets use no more than 1.6 gallons per flush, manufacturers had to develop a toilet that would achieve this but that would also flush properly (clear the bowl) and carry the waste to the city sewer or septic system. Some of the early models did not do this properly.
Replacing a toilet costs between $275 and $480 in most cases, and the average cost sits around $375. This includes removing the old toilet and installing the new toilet.
Whether it's due to age, loosening, damage, or for any other reason, your handyman can remove the old toilet seat for you. If the bolts keeping the old seat in place are rusted, the handyman may apply an industrial lubricant to loosen them, then unscrew them with an adjustable wrench.
How soon after I install a new toilet can I use it? Technically, a new toilet will work as soon as it's hooked up to the water supply line. But waiting until the caulk is fully dry is wise. Refer to the directions on your caulk tube for an ideal dry time, but know that most should be set within three to six hours.
If silicone sealant gets wet before it has cured, several issues can arise. Water can interfere with the curing process, leading to a tacky, weak, or uneven seal. The moisture can dilute the sealant, preventing it from setting correctly and reducing its effectiveness.
The International Plumbing Code requires caulk around the base of a toilet.