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Dec 16,2024

How to Move a Toilet Over a Few Inches

Is your elbow hitting the counter or wall when you sit on your toilet? Does it seem off-center? Some homes come with a toilet in a less-than-perfect location, and moving it just a few inches might seem like a huge relief. Many times, this minor adjustment can improve both the form and function of your bathroom – but how do you do it?

Before you grab a wrench and start pulling up tiles, it’s important to understand what this project involves. In this brief article brought to you by Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we give you a brief rundown on the basics.

Why move a toilet?

Bathrooms are often designed to maximize available space, but this sometimes results in toilets being crammed into corners or installed too close to walls, counters, or other fixtures. A poorly placed toilet installation can be a source of daily frustration. Moving a toilet even a few inches can:

  • Provide more comfortable elbow room.
  • Improve accessibility and ease of use.
  • Enhance the overall aesthetic balance of the bathroom.
  • Make cleaning around the toilet easier.

While the idea of shifting a toilet may sound simple, however, the work behind it is more complex than it appears.

The challenges of moving a toilet

Toilets are connected to your home’s plumbing system’s pipes, drains, and vents. Moving the fixture even a few inches will require modifying these connections. Here are some key aspects of the job to consider:

  • Adjusting the Drain and Flange: This involves cutting into the floor to access the plumbing and creating a new connection for the drain.
  • Ensuring Proper Slope: Drainpipes must have the correct slope to allow wastewater to flow smoothly to the sewer line.
  • Relocating the Water Supply Line: When the toilet is moved, the water supply line needs to be adjusted or extended to reach the new location.
  • Repairing the Floor and Surrounding Area: This may involve replacing tiles, patching holes, or even dealing with subflooring issues.

As you can see, adjusting the toilet’s position is typically more challenging than a toilet replacement. This is why we typically recommend hiring a professional for adjustments.

Why hire a professional plumber?

While it’s possible to tackle a toilet relocation as a DIY project, it’s not recommended unless you have extensive plumbing experience. Here’s why calling a professional plumber can save you time, energy, and money:

  • They can assess your bathroom’s plumbing setup and determine the best way to move your toilet without causing damage or future problems.
  • Plumbers have access to tools and materials to handle the job with precision.
  • A professional plumber will ensure the work complies with building codes and regulations that dictate things like pipe size, slope, and venting.
  • You can avoid costly mistakes such as leaks, poor drainage, or damaged flooring.

Plus, professional plumbing in Waco, TX service is quick and affordable when you choose Mr. Rooter Plumbing. We’re happy to give you a price estimate upfront before the work begins.

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