How to Remove and Replace a Toilet

Step 1. Turn the water off at the supply lines. Flush the toilet several times to remove water from the bowl and tank. Use a sponge to remove any remaining water from the tank and the bowl.

Step 2. Remove the wing nuts that attach the tank to the bowl. If they are corroded, use penetrating oil to help loosen them.

Step 3. Disconnect the water supply lines. Now the tank is ready to remove from the bowl.

Step 4. Remove the caps at the base of the toilet. These may be severely corroded and require penetrating oil. If the corrosion is severe you may have to grind or cut off the nuts. Use a utility knife to cut the caulk at the base of the bowl for easy removal.

Step 5. Lift off the bowl. The seal is now visible. Be careful to get the right wax seal. Some wax seals come with extensions for floors that have been built up. Some wax seals can be joined back to back to create a double height seal as well. If there is any question about the seal you need, take the old seal with you and the name of the toilet manufacturer so a perfect match can be made.

Step 6. Make sure the seal is room temperature or warmer before refitting the bowl. Lift the bowl back over the nuts into position. Rotate the bowl back and forth several times to seat the seal. Line the bowl up with the wall and check to make sure the bowl is level.

Step 7. Replace the nuts at the bottom of the bowl and fill the caps with plumbers putty to keep water out.

Step 8. Put the tank on the bowl. Check the spud washer for any damage. If damaged replace it now.

Step 9. Tighten up the wing nuts and reconnect the water supply lines. Turn the water on and flush the toilet several times to check for any leaks.

Step 10. Re-caulk the base of the bowl to create a water proof seal which protects the floor and provides additional stability.