Replacing a Toilet
FriendsWithTools.io earns a commission from qualifying purchases made through links on this page, at no additional cost to you. We do not test these tools ourselves — all claims are sourced from manufacturer specifications, retailer listings, and aggregated user reviews, each linked inline. Prices and ratings were verified on May 2026 and may have changed.
Replacing a toilet is less intimidating than it sounds. The old toilet comes off with two bolts, the new one goes on with the same two bolts, and the water connections are hand-tight plus a quarter turn. The hardest part is lifting the toilet (40-60 lbs) and setting it evenly on the wax ring without shifting.
Cost Breakdown
Removal
Disconnects the water supply line and loosens the tank-to-bowl bolts.
Holds the bolt head underneath while you wrench the nut on top. Channel-lock pliers work best.
Scrapes old wax ring residue off the flange. The new ring needs a clean surface.
Soak up remaining water in the bowl and tank after shutting off the supply and flushing.
Installation
Check the toilet is level side-to-side and front-to-back before tightening the bolts.
Trim the closet bolts flush after tightening so the decorative caps fit.
Consumables and Supplies
These get used up during the project. Always buy these new.
- Wax ring (or wax-free gasket) One per installation. Wax-free gaskets are reusable if you need to reposition. Wax rings are not.
- Closet bolts Usually included with the wax ring kit. Replace the old ones.
- Supply line Replace the supply line while you are at it. Braided stainless steel lines last longer than plastic.
- Shims If the floor is uneven, plastic toilet shims keep the base from rocking
Safety Gear
- Rubber gloves (it is a toilet)
Before You Buy Anything
Check if your neighbors already have the tools you need. Borrowing saves money, saves storage space, and keeps tools in use instead of collecting dust.
See how FriendsWithTools worksCommon Questions
Do I need to replace the wax ring?
Yes. Every time. The wax ring is a one-time seal between the toilet base and the drain flange. Removing the toilet breaks the seal. A new wax ring costs $3-5. Skipping it guarantees a sewer gas leak or a water leak at the base.
Can I install a toilet on an uneven floor?
Yes. Set the toilet, check with a level, and insert plastic shims under the low side until it is level. Trim the shims flush, then caulk around the base. Do not overtighten the closet bolts to compensate for unevenness. That cracks the porcelain.