Tips
for Toilet Replacement
Purchasing
Guide
Shop Around for the Right Toilet
The cheapest toilet may not be the best. You want a toilet that does not clog easily,
clears the bowl with a single flush and is largely self-cleaning. Ask for references on
the performance of specific models from other customers who have installed low-consumption
toilets in their buildings.
Choose a Licensed Plumber/Contractor and Review a Work
Proposal
Ask prospective plumbers to perform a pre-proposal inspection of your building's restrooms
and related plumbing prior to your selection. The proposal should include any accessory
jobs which need to be part of the project and any extra work items that could develop
during the job. The proposal should also include the total number of hours, the plumber's
rate per hour and an itemized list of direct expense costs so that a comparison between
proposals can easily be made.
Anticipate Possible Additional Work Required
While some toilet replacement jobs will proceed as simple "drop-in"
replacements, there are a number of small and large additional tasks that could arise.
These may include:
- Floor tile work
- Faulty shut-off valve repair
- Repair or modification of water supply lines
- Repair or modification of the drain line pitch
- Repair or modification of the venting system
Plan for the Legal Disposal of Old Toilets
Talk to your plumber about a plan to dispose of the old toilets. Most internal toilet
parts can be removed and sold as recyclable scrap metal. Contact your local solid waste
authority for information on their requirements for disposal.
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