With the wallboard installed, the next project in the bathroom renovation is the installation of a new toilet. This is a fairly strenuous project, but one that is within the capabilities of a dedicated do-it-yourselfer -- particularly if an able assistant is available. Sarah -- the homeowner and dedicated do-it-yourselfer -- takes on this project with the advice and assistance of her father. Steps: - The water supply for all toilets comes through the wall or floor under the lower left side of the bowl. Because the plumber left excess pipe on the water supply line, Sarah cuts it to the proper length using a jig-saw (figure A).
- Sarah slips the flange over the pipe and begins attaching the valve. With the water turned off at the main shut off, she slides the large nut and compression washer on the pipe.
- After wrapping the threads with teflon tape (figure B), Sarah uses a wrench to tighten the nut.
- Next comes the less-than-pleasant task of cleaning out the drain plug. The drain was stuffed with paper before the wall tear-out began to prevent debris from falling in. Even though it's original, the flange unit is in reasonably good shape. Sarah slides the retaining bolts into place (figure C).
- The wax seal (figure D) fits around the horn on the bottom of the toilet bowl and makes a very tight seal over the drain pipe.
- Sarah runs a bead of clear silicon caulk around the base as an added seal (figure E).
- This job can be done by one person provided one thing is done right:
There are a couple of thin plastic holders attached to the toilet bolts (figure F). The plastic retainers are supposed to be pushed down to the flange to keep the bolts from flopping over. Unfortunately, this was not done properly when Sarah and her dad attempted it. The result was a troublesome installation, but with some adjustments, the bowl was eventually seated properly on the seal (figure G). - With the bowl seated properly, the retaining nuts holding the bowl in place are first hand tightened. After hand-tightening, one person pushes down on the bowl while another uses a wrench to turn them just once or twice to secure the bowl to the floor.
- Before putting the tank on the bowl, the flexible supply tube that will connect to the tank valve is attached (figure H).
- To attach the tank to the bowl, one big rubber washer and two smaller ones fit on the tank. It is connected to the bowl with two bolts (figure I).
- Compared to the steps that preceded it, installation of the seat was easy. Two small fasteners are attached with double-sided tape (figure J) and then secured with screws (figure K).
- Once the installation is complete, the water supply is turned back on to fill the tank and check for leaks.
NOTE: For additional information on installing a toilet, check out episode 103 of DIY's Plumbing workshop.
RESOURCES :
Plumbing for Dummies
Model: 0764551744
Author: Gene and Katie Hamilton
1999; Out of Print
IDG Books Worldwide, Inc. (An International Data Group Company)
Foster City, CA 94404
Do-It-Yourself Plumbing
Model: 0060101229
Author: Max Alth
Sterling Publishing, 1987
Out of Print
Installing and Repairing Plumbing Fixtures
Model: 1561580759
Author: Peter Hemp
1994
The Taunton Press Inc.
Website: www.taunton.com
The Complete Book of Kitchen and Bathroom Renovation
Time Life Books
Website: www.timelife.com
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