Complete Guide to Renovating an Old Toilet

Introduction

Many of us may find ourselves in the situation of wanting to improve our bathrooms without incurring significant capital expenses. Renovating an old toilet can greatly enhance your bathroom experience, and in this article, we will cover everything you need to know, from simple upgrades to complete replacements.

Upgrade to a Bidet Toilet Seat

Your bathroom might not have the means for a complete renovation, but you can still upgrade your toilet with a bidet toilet seat. A bidet toilet seat, such as the Toto model, offers a plethora of features that can transform your bathroom experience. Here are a few commendable features:

Heated seat Warm water spray Front and back cleaning, with both straight and oscillating streams Fan for air drying

Not only will this upgrade bring a significant improvement to your daily routine, but it's also portable, allowing you to take it with you when you move. This is an upgrade that you will not soon regret, and it can make all the difference, especially if you're living in an area where bidet toilets are not the norm.

DIY Tips for Renovating an Old Toilet

For those who are more inclined to handle their renovations themselves, here are some DIY tips for renovating an old toilet:

1. Tools and Hardware

When purchasing hardware to reassemble the toilet, ensure that you buy solid brass bolts, washers, and nuts. Plated or ordinary steel parts are not suitable as they will rust and become difficult to disassemble in the future. It’s a wise investment for longevity and easier maintenance.

2. Remove and Reinstall the Toilet

The first step is to remove the old toilet. Use plumber's putty to remove the old wax seal from the floor and clean the flange. For the new toilet, use shims to ensure a proper fit. Ensure all parts are secure and that there is no rocking. This is critical as wax seals are not elastic and any rocking can cause water leaks.

3. Cleaning and Rebuild Kits

Once the toilet is removed, clean it thoroughly, making sure all the holes under the rim of the seat are free of debris. You may want to consider sealing these holes to prevent future water leaks. If your toilet is older, it might be a good idea to consider buying a rebuild kit for the tank. These are available at hardware stores and can help keep the tank in good working order. A rebuild kit involves messy but fairly simple tasks that require a couple of wrenches and a screwdriver. Turning off the water supply, emptying the tank, and following the instructions can bring your toilet back to life.

4. Check for Leaks and Wear

A common issue with old toilets is the toilet shutoff valve, which may be worn out, especially if the toilet is 50 years old or more. Before you start, locate the shutoff valve near the floor behind the toilet, and ensure it can close completely. If you can't find it or it's not functioning properly, turn off the water at the main valve near the street, which should be identified by the water meter.

Conclusion

Renovating your old toilet can significantly enhance your bathroom experience, either through simple upgrades like a bidet toilet seat or a more comprehensive renovation. Whether you choose to take on the project yourself or hire a professional, the key is to carefully follow the steps and invest in quality hardware to ensure durability. Embrace the challenge, and you will surely see a positive impact on your daily routine.