Roll Up Those Sleeves: A Handyman’s Guide to Installing a New Toilet

Welcome fellow DIY'ers! Are you prepared to dive face-first into the world of plumbing and become the master of your lavatory? Well, grab your toolbox and put on your boldest game face, because today I'll show you how to install a new toilet. Don't worry - there's more fun in it than you might think!

Preparing for the Task Ahead

The first step towards your DIY Throne installation is gathering the necessary tools for the job. Here is the loot you will need:

1. A shiny, new toilet (obviously!).
2. An adjustable wrench.
3. A putty knife or scraper.
4. A couple of large heavy-duty garbage bags.
5. A hacksaw.
6. A torpedo level.
7. Towels or rags.
8. Wax ring seal.

Once you've assembled your war chest, it's time to get down to business!

Don't Shy from the Goodbye: Removing the Old Toilet

Parting is such sweet sorrow, especially when it involves your old porcelain throne. But worry not! Just follow these simple steps, and you'll bid a fond farewell to your old commode without any catastrophes:

1. Turn off the water supply.
2. Flush and drain the remaining water in the toilet.
3. Disconnect the water supply line using your trusty adjustable wrench.
4. Remove the bolts anchoring the toilet bowl to the floor.
5. Lift off the old throne with a strong, steady pull upwards and place it on a garbage bag.

But remember, "out with the old" often means "in with the nasty," so be sure to use your putty knife to scrape off any leftover wax and debris now left on the flange.

Lay Siege to the Porcelain Fortress: Installing Your New Toilet

Now comes the exciting phase: installing your shiny, new throne. This part might sound like a little daunting, but as the DIY maestro that you are, this is nothing but a fun challenge.

Establish the Baseline: Installing the Wax Ring and Toilet Base

1. Unbox your brand new wax ring seal. Place it evenly around the exposed sewage pipe (this might require a bit of gentle force).
2. Bring in your new toilet base, making sure to line up the mounting bolts with the holes in the base.
3. Press down firmly to compress the wax seal for a watertight fit.

Improvise. Adapt. Overcome: Attaching the Tank

All DIY wizards know that each installation is different and may need creative problem solving. So let's strap in for the next part.

1. For the tank, lay it down on its back, ensuring you align the mounting holes with the ones on the toilet base.
2. Attach the rubber gaskets and tighten the bolts.
3. Connect the supply line again remembering not to over tighten to avoid cracking the porcelain.

Endgame phase: Seat and Lid Installation

1. Align the seat with the bowl, then insert and tighten the screws.
2. Snap the seat lid in place (if required).

That's it! Your brand new throne is ready for duty!

Pump the Brakes: Ensuring Everything is in its Right Place

Don't rush just yet! Check everything first. Make sure all bolts are snug (not too tight), and the toilet sits level. If there's any wobbling, add plastic shims to steady it. Then, turn on the water supply and let the tank fill. Give your new throne the final test: flush it and check for leaks.

Crowning of the King: Final Touches

Give yourself a pat on the back! After this installation journey, you are no longer a mere DIY enthusiast but a full-fledged DIY King or Queen of the lavatory! It's time for you to take your rightful place upon the new porcelain throne.

Remember, the pursuit of knowledge is never-ending. Flex those DIY muscles, keep learning, and always be prepared to answer when a new challenge calls!

Over and out till next time, DIY'ers.

Stay handy. Stay fantastic.