How to Move a Toilet Over a Few Inches

What to Consider Before Moving Your Toilet

Before you start, it's essential to consider why you're moving the toilet. You may be rearranging your bathroom, a toilet replacement, or trying to make more space. Whatever the reason, it's not as simple as picking up the toilet and placing it elsewhere. The toilet is attached to plumbing pipes hidden beneath the floor, and if those pipes aren’t handled correctly, it could lead to leaks or other plumbing issues down the line.

Moving a toilet by just a few inches can seem like a small change, but it can cause significant problems if done incorrectly. It’s not only about disconnecting the toilet from the floor and sliding it over. You’ll likely need to adjust the drain pipe, water supply line, and possibly even part of the floor itself. Many people call a plumbing repair service to handle this kind of project.

Steps for Moving a Toilet

You’ll need to follow the steps to move the toilet independently. Remember that this project requires more than just basic DIY skills; unless you’re very confident in your plumbing abilities, you may need to hire a plumbing service.

Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply

The first step in any toilet repair or replacement project is to turn off the water supply. You want to avoid water flooding your bathroom while you work. Look for the shut-off valve near the toilet's base and turn it clockwise to stop the water flow.

Step 2: Drain the Toilet

Once the water is turned off, you’ll need to drain the toilet. Flush it to remove as much water as possible, and then use a sponge or a towel to soak up any remaining water in the tank and the bowl. This step helps prevent spills while you’re working.

Step 3: Disconnect the Toilet

Next, you’ll need to remove the toilet from its current location. First, detach the water supply line, which connects the toilet tank to the shut-off valve. Then, you’ll need to remove the nuts and bolts that hold the toilet to the floor. These are usually located at the base of the toilet. After removing the bolts, gently lift the toilet and set it aside.

Step 4: Adjust the Plumbing

To move the toilet a few inches, you’ll need to adjust the plumbing connections beneath the floor. The drainpipe and the flange must be shifted to the new location. Depending on how far you move the toilet, this could involve cutting and replacing pipes. If this sounds daunting, calling a professional plumber might be a good idea. Trying to tackle this part of the job without the proper experience could result in leaks or damage to your home.

Step 5: Install the New Flange

Once the drain pipe has been moved, you must install a new flange at the new location. This piece connects the toilet to the drain pipe and secures it to the floor. Getting this step right is essential, as the flange needs to be securely attached to avoid leaks and other plumbing problems.

Step 6: Reconnect the Toilet

After the flange is in place, you can reconnect the toilet to its new position. Line up the toilet over the flange and press it down into place. Then, secure it to the floor with the bolts you removed earlier and reattach the water supply line.

Step 7: Test for Leaks

Once everything is reconnected, turn the water supply back on and check for leaks. Flush the toilet a few times and inspect the area around the base and the water supply line. If there are no leaks, you’ve successfully moved your toilet! If you notice any water leaking, it’s a sign that something wasn’t installed correctly. In that case, it’s best to call a plumbing repair service to come and take a look.

When to Call a Plumber

While moving a toilet over a few inches might seem straightforward, it's important to remember that any plumbing work can quickly become complex. If you’re uncomfortable working with pipes or run into unexpected issues, it’s wise to contact a plumber. A professional plumbing service can handle the job efficiently and ensure everything is installed correctly. They’ll have the tools and experience needed to ensure there are no leaks or other issues that could cause problems later.

A plumbing repair service is beneficial if the plumbing beneath your floor is old or complicated. They can assess the situation, handle surprises, and ensure your toilet works properly in its new location. Plus, many plumbing services offer warranties on their work, so if anything goes wrong, you’ll have peace of mind knowing it will be fixed.

Mr. Rooter Plumbing

Moving a toilet over a few inches can be tricky, especially when adjusting the plumbing. While it’s possible to do it yourself, it often makes more sense to call a professional plumbing repair service or plumber to handle the job. They’ll ensure your toilet is moved safely and the plumbing connections are correctly adjusted. Whether you decide to do the work yourself or hire a plumbing service, it’s essential to take your time and make sure the job is done right to avoid costly repairs down the road.