If you’re looking to improve the layout of your bathroom, moving your toilet a few inches can make a big difference. Whether it’s too close to the counter or not centered on the wall, relocating your toilet can enhance both the form and function of your bathroom. But before you start moving the toilet, there are some important considerations to keep in mind.
One of the biggest factors to consider is the type of flooring your bathroom has. If your bathroom is on top of a concrete slab, moving the toilet can be more difficult and expensive. However, if you have space to work beneath the bathroom, relocating the toilet can be a more feasible option. In this article, we’ll outline everything you need to know about moving your toilet, including important considerations and tips for how to do it properly.
Important Considerations When Moving a Toilet
When you decide to move a toilet, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind. You will not only move the toilet itself, but you may also need to move the supply line and waste line. Here are some things you should consider before moving a toilet:
- Water Supply Line: The water supply line usually connects to the toilet by a flexible supply line. You can install a slightly longer supply line tube to move the toilet a few inches without repositioning the water line access point.
- Wastewater Line: The wastewater line moves the flushed materials to the septic tank or municipal wastewater system. There is usually a vertical wastewater pipe under the toilet that uses gravity to move wastewater away. If you want to move the toilet a few inches in any direction, an offset toilet flange will allow you to do so without cutting a new hole in the floor or reconstructing the wastewater pipe. However, an offset flange may cause a stoppage as the water leaving the toilet will be diverted slightly.
- Demolition: Before moving the toilet, you should plan the layout and mark the new location. You may need to demolish the existing floor, walls, or fixtures to create a new space for the toilet.
- Plumbing: When moving the toilet, you should consider the location of the supply line, water supply, and waste line. You may need to install new pipes, elbows, or vents to connect the toilet to the existing plumbing system.
- Leak Paths: You should check for leaks in the supply line, water line, or wastewater line before and after moving the toilet. You can use a shut-off valve to turn off the water supply and check for leaks.
- Material: You should consider the material of the pipes when moving the toilet. Cast iron and PVC pipes have different properties and require different installation methods.
By keeping these important considerations in mind, you can move the toilet without causing any damage to the floor or plumbing system.
If Your Bathroom is On Top of a Concrete Slab
Moving a toilet on top of a concrete slab can be a challenging task. The concrete slab must be demolished to access and relocate water and waste lines. After that, the sub-flooring, flooring, and fixtures must be replaced. This additional step adds considerably to the cost, fuss, and mess involved in your project. However, if you are already planning to do a complete bathroom remodel, this is the best time to tackle this project as well.
If you decide to move your toilet, you will need to use an offset flange or offset toilet flange to connect the toilet to the waste line. The closet flange should be secured to the concrete slab using bolts. A new wax ring should be installed to ensure a tight seal between the toilet and the flange.
We do not recommend that you try to tear up your concrete slab to move a toilet. This is a job for a trained and experienced professional.
If You Have Space to Work Beneath the Bathroom
If you have a basement or crawl space beneath your bathroom, you have more options for your remodeling project. Moving the toilet more than a couple of inches will require reconfiguring the wastewater line and water line. If you are working on a second-floor bathroom, moving the toilet will likely require demolishing first-floor ceilings and walls so you can move the water lines inside the structure of the house. This can be a messy, difficult, and costly process, so it is recommended to hire a professional if you wish to move a toilet on a second floor or one located above a basement.
To move the toilet, you will need to access the sub-flooring and the joists. You may need to use an adjustable wrench or pliers to disconnect the water supply line and a reciprocating saw to cut through the waste line. Once the toilet is removed, you can make any necessary adjustments to the plumbing and install the new toilet in the desired location.
Toilet Installation Professionals
When it comes to relocating or installing a toilet, it’s best to seek professional help. Mr. Rooter® Plumbing has the necessary tools and skills to get the job done right. Contact your local Mr. Rooter for an estimate and accurate pricing. Avoid costly mistakes and ensure a successful bathroom remodel by hiring a professional plumber.
