How to Measure for a Toilet (With Step-by-Step Instructions)

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How to Measure for a Toilet

A new toilet can be a great way to improve the look and function of your bathroom. But before you can buy a new toilet, you need to make sure you measure your existing toilet so you know what size to buy.

Measuring for a toilet is easy, but it’s important to do it correctly so you get the right size toilet for your bathroom. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of measuring for a toilet, so you can be sure you get the perfect fit for your bathroom.

We’ll cover everything you need to know, from where to measure to how to interpret your measurements. By the end of this article, you’ll be able to measure for a toilet like a pro.

Step Description Image
1 Measure the distance from the back wall to the center of the toilet flange.
2 Measure the distance from the center of the toilet flange to the outside edge of the toilet bowl.
3 Add 1 inch to the measurement from step 1 and 2 to determine the overall length of the toilet.
4 Measure the distance from the floor to the center of the toilet flange.
5 Add 1 inch to the measurement from step 4 to determine the overall height of the toilet.

How Do You Measure For A Toilet?

Measuring for a new toilet can be a daunting task, but it’s important to get it right so that you end up with a toilet that fits your needs and your bathroom. Here are the steps on how to measure for a toilet:

Measuring the Toilet Bowl

The first step is to measure the toilet bowl. You will need to measure the following:

  • Bowl width
  • Bowl depth
  • Bowl height

To measure the bowl width, measure the distance between the two outside edges of the bowl. To measure the bowl depth, measure the distance from the front of the bowl to the back of the bowl. To measure the bowl height, measure the distance from the floor to the top of the bowl.

Bowl width

The standard toilet bowl width is 18 inches. However, some toilets are available in wider widths, such as 20 inches or 22 inches. If you have a small bathroom, you may want to consider a narrower toilet bowl.

Bowl depth

The standard toilet bowl depth is 14 inches. However, some toilets are available in deeper depths, such as 16 inches or 18 inches. If you have a tall person in your household, you may want to consider a deeper toilet bowl.

Bowl height

The standard toilet bowl height is 15 inches. However, some toilets are available in higher heights, such as 16 inches or 17 inches. If you have mobility issues, you may want to consider a taller toilet bowl.

Measuring the Toilet Tank

The next step is to measure the toilet tank. You will need to measure the following:

  • Tank width
  • Tank depth
  • Tank height

To measure the tank width, measure the distance between the two outside edges of the tank. To measure the tank depth, measure the distance from the front of the tank to the back of the tank. To measure the tank height, measure the distance from the floor to the top of the tank.

Tank width

The standard toilet tank width is 18 inches. However, some toilets are available in wider tanks, such as 20 inches or 22 inches. If you have a small bathroom, you may want to consider a narrower toilet tank.

Tank depth

The standard toilet tank depth is 12 inches. However, some toilets are available in deeper tanks, such as 14 inches or 16 inches. If you have a tall person in your household, you may want to consider a deeper toilet tank.

Tank height

The standard toilet tank height is 15 inches. However, some toilets are available in higher heights, such as 16 inches or 17 inches. If you have mobility issues, you may want to consider a taller toilet tank.

Once you have measured the toilet bowl and tank, you can compare your measurements to the dimensions of the toilets that you are considering. Be sure to also consider the height of the toilet seat when making your decision. The ideal toilet seat height is 17 inches from the floor to the top of the seat.

If you are still having trouble finding a toilet that fits your needs, you can always consult with a plumber or a home improvement store. They can help you find the perfect toilet for your bathroom.

Additional Tips

Here are a few additional tips for measuring for a toilet:

  • Measure the space where the toilet will be installed. This will help you determine the maximum size of toilet that will fit in your bathroom.
  • Consider the type of toilet that you want. There are two main types of toilets: one-piece toilets and two-piece toilets. One-piece toilets are easier to install, but two-piece toilets are more affordable.
  • Choose a toilet that is made from high-quality materials. A good quality toilet will last for many years.
  • Read the reviews of different toilets before you make a purchase. This will help you get an idea of what other people have to say about different models.

By following these tips, you can find the perfect toilet for your bathroom.

Measuring the Toilet Drain

The drain on a toilet is located at the bottom of the bowl and is where the waste water and solid waste are flushed away. When measuring the drain, you will need to measure the width and depth.

To measure the width of the drain, you will need to insert a ruler or measuring tape into the drain opening and measure from one side of the drain to the other. The width of the drain is typically between 1.5 and 2 inches.

To measure the depth of the drain, you will need to insert a ruler or measuring tape into the drain opening and measure from the top of the drain to the bottom of the drain. The depth of the drain is typically between 3 and 4 inches.

Measuring the Toilet Rough-In

The rough-in on a toilet is the distance from the back wall of the toilet to the center of the drain. This measurement is important because it will determine the type of toilet that you can install.

To measure the rough-in distance, you will need to measure from the back wall of the toilet to the center of the drain. The rough-in distance is typically between 10 and 14 inches.

To measure the rough-in height, you will need to measure from the floor to the center of the drain. The rough-in height is typically between 12 and 14 inches.

Measuring for a toilet is a relatively simple process, but it is important to get the measurements correct in order to ensure that you install the toilet correctly. By following the steps in this guide, you can easily measure for a toilet and get the perfect fit for your bathroom.

How do I measure for a toilet?

To measure for a toilet, you will need to know the following dimensions:

  • The distance from the wall to the center of the toilet bowl (also known as the rough-in measurement)
  • The height of the toilet bowl from the floor to the top of the seat
  • The width of the toilet bowl

To find the rough-in measurement, measure from the wall to the center of the drain pipe where the toilet will be installed. This measurement should be between 10 and 14 inches.

To find the height of the toilet bowl, measure from the floor to the top of the seat. This measurement should be between 16 and 20 inches.

To find the width of the toilet bowl, measure from the front to the back of the bowl. This measurement should be between 28 and 32 inches.

Once you have these measurements, you can use them to compare to the dimensions of different toilets to find one that will fit in your bathroom.

What if my bathroom doesn’t have enough space for a standard toilet?

If your bathroom doesn’t have enough space for a standard toilet, you may want to consider a compact toilet. Compact toilets are smaller than standard toilets and can fit in smaller spaces. They typically have a smaller bowl and a shorter tank, which makes them more compact.

What is the difference between a one-piece toilet and a two-piece toilet?

There are two main types of toilets: one-piece toilets and two-piece toilets. One-piece toilets are made from a single piece of porcelain, while two-piece toilets are made from two separate pieces: the bowl and the tank.

One-piece toilets are typically more expensive than two-piece toilets, but they are also more streamlined and easier to clean. Two-piece toilets are less expensive than one-piece toilets, but they can be more difficult to clean around the joint between the bowl and the tank.

What are the different types of toilet seats?

There are a variety of different types of toilet seats available, each with its own unique features. Some of the most common types of toilet seats include:

  • Standard toilet seats: Standard toilet seats are the most common type of toilet seat and are available in a variety of colors and styles.
  • Comfort height toilet seats: Comfort height toilet seats are taller than standard toilet seats and make it easier for people with mobility issues to sit and stand.
  • Bidet toilet seats: Bidet toilet seats include a built-in bidet that can be used to clean the user’s bottom after using the toilet.
  • Heated toilet seats: Heated toilet seats are designed to provide a warm and comfortable experience when using the toilet.

How do I install a toilet?

Installing a toilet is a relatively simple task, but it is important to follow the instructions carefully to ensure that the toilet is installed correctly.

To install a toilet, you will need the following tools and materials:

  • A new toilet
  • A toilet flange
  • A wax ring
  • Silicone sealant
  • A screwdriver
  • A wrench
  • A level

To begin, remove the old toilet by disconnecting the water supply line and the drain line. Then, remove the toilet bolts and lift the toilet off of the flange.

Next, install the new toilet flange by attaching it to the floor with screws. Then, place the wax ring on the flange and position the toilet over the flange.

Once the toilet is in position, secure it to the floor with the toilet bolts. Then, connect the water supply line and the drain line.

Finally, use a level to make sure that the toilet is level. If necessary, adjust the toilet bolts until the toilet is level.

Once the toilet is installed, you can turn on the water supply and flush the toilet to test the installation.

Measuring for a toilet is a relatively simple process, but it is important to get it right the first time to avoid costly mistakes. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that you have the correct measurements and that your new toilet will fit perfectly in your bathroom.

Here are the key takeaways from this article:

  • The two most important measurements to take are the rough-in distance and the toilet bowl width.
  • The rough-in distance is the distance from the back of the toilet to the wall.
  • The toilet bowl width is the distance from the front of the toilet to the back.
  • You can find the rough-in distance by measuring from the back of the toilet flange to the wall.
  • You can find the toilet bowl width by measuring from the front of the toilet bowl to the back.
  • It is important to make sure that the toilet you choose is the correct size for your bathroom.
  • By following these steps, you can ensure that you have the correct measurements and that your new toilet will fit perfectly in your bathroom.

Author Profile

Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell is the owner of toiletty.com. She is a mom of two and is very passionate about home improvement.

Liana has ten years of home improvement experience, and in her own words, she said: “I love improving the home, and I’m very passionate about keeping the home in the best possible condition. I love it!”

Liana Farrell balances beauty and functionality when she goes about her home improvement jobs.