How to Measure for a Replacement Toilet

At some point, every toilet must be replaced. As your toilet ages, it will develop leaks. Components will fail. More efficient models will become available. You’ll simply want a new one.

When you’re tired of dealing with all the hassles of an old toilet and the time comes to replace it, getting your toilet replacement measurements right is key. Measuring for a new toilet is the only way to be sure you purchase a suitable replacement that will fit in the space. The smaller the bathroom is, the more important your measurements are.

Here’s how to ensure your replacement toilet will fit where the old one once was.

What to Measure When Replacing a Toilet

Tank Height

Measure the toilet tank height to be sure the new toilet will fit underneath shelves or anything else that’s currently above the old toilet. A toilet tank’s height is measured from the floor to the top of the toilet tank. Place the end of the tape measure on the floor, and take the measurement at the very top edge of the tank lid.

If you don’t have any items above your toilet tank, you can purchase a toilet with a taller tank, should you prefer it.

Toilet Depth

Toilet bowls and seats are either round or oval. Round bowls take up a little less space, while oval bowls tend to offer a little more comfort. Round bowls are also sometimes preferable for smaller people and children.

To measure the depth of your current toilet, measure from the front edge of the toilet bowl to the back of the tank. If you are comfortable with your current toilet’s depth, then select a new toilet with a similar depth. If you feel like you could use a little more floor space in front of the toilet, choose a shallower replacement. Finally, make sure to consider the path of a door if your toilet faces a door that opens inward.

Rough-in Measurement

The rough-in measurement of a toilet refers to the span between the wall behind the toilet and the center of the waste pipe. To measure the rough-in for your toilet, measure from the wall behind the toilet to the middle of the bolt caps (the caps holding your toilet to the floor). If there are four bolt caps, measure to the rear set of bolt caps.

Take all your toilet measurements to the home improvement store, and use them to purchase a new toilet that will fit with your existing bathroom space and waste pipe configuration.

Call Mr. Rooter Plumbing for Professional Help Changing out a Toilet

If you're looking for help changing out a toilet, contact your local Mr. Rooter^® Plumbing today. Mr. Rooter Plumbing’s service professionals are ready to install your new toilet and assist with any other plumbing issues you're facing. Toilet installation isn’t a great job to do on your own. Make sure to have yours installed by a professional to avoid problems like poor seals, uneven placement, and broken wax rings.

Get started today by requesting an estimate from your local Mr. Rooter Plumbing or by calling us today.