How to Measure a Toilet Rough-In: A Step-by-Step Guide

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How to Measure a Toilet Rough In

A toilet rough-in is the distance between the center of the drain pipe and the finished wall behind the toilet. It’s an important measurement to know when you’re buying a new toilet, because you need to make sure that the toilet you choose will fit in the space you have available.

Measuring a toilet rough-in is a simple process, but it’s important to get it right. If you measure incorrectly, you could end up with a toilet that doesn’t fit properly, or you could damage your plumbing.

In this article, we’ll show you how to measure a toilet rough-in in five easy steps. We’ll also provide some tips on how to choose the right toilet for your bathroom.

Step 1: Find the Drain Pipe

Step Tools Instructions
1 Tape measure, pencil, level Measure the distance from the center of the flange to the wall on both sides of the toilet.
2 Hacksaw Cut the flange so that it is flush with the wall.
3 Plumber’s putty Apply plumber’s putty around the edge of the flange to seal it.

A toilet rough-in is the set of pipes and fittings that connect the toilet to the sewer line. It is important to measure the toilet rough-in before you buy a toilet so that you can make sure that the toilet will fit in the space you have available.

Tools and Materials

The following tools and materials are needed to measure a toilet rough-in:

  • Tape measure
  • Pencil
  • Level
  • Combination square
  • Saw
  • Hacksaw
  • Pipe wrench
  • Pliers
  • Plumber’s putty
  • Caulk

Steps

To measure a toilet rough-in, follow these steps:

1. Locate the toilet flange. The toilet flange is a metal ring that is installed in the floor to support the toilet. It is typically located 12 inches from the back wall of the toilet.
2. Measure the distance from the center of the toilet flange to the wall. This measurement is the toilet rough-in.
3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 for the other side of the toilet. The toilet rough-in should be the same on both sides of the toilet.
4. Check the toilet rough-in against the dimensions of the toilet you are planning to buy. The toilet rough-in must be compatible with the toilet you are buying.

Measuring a toilet rough-in is a simple process that can be completed in a few minutes. By following these steps, you can make sure that you buy a toilet that will fit in the space you have available.

Here are some additional tips for measuring a toilet rough-in:

  • If you are not comfortable measuring the toilet rough-in yourself, you can hire a plumber to do it for you.
  • Make sure that you measure the toilet rough-in before you buy the toilet. If you buy the toilet first, you may not be able to return it if it does not fit in the space you have available.
  • Be sure to check the toilet rough-in against the dimensions of the toilet you are buying. The toilet rough-in must be compatible with the toilet you are buying.

By following these tips, you can ensure that you buy a toilet that will fit in the space you have available and that will be easy to install.

How To Measure A Toilet Rough In?

1. Find the water supply shutoff valve

The first step in measuring a toilet rough in is to find the water supply shutoff valve. This valve is usually located near the toilet, and it will be either a ball valve or a gate valve. Once you have found the valve, turn it off to prevent water from flowing into the toilet.

2. Measure the distance from the back of the toilet to the center of the drainpipe

The next step is to measure the distance from the back of the toilet to the center of the drainpipe. This measurement is called the rough-in measurement, and it is typically between 10 and 12 inches.

To take this measurement, you will need a tape measure. Start by placing the end of the tape measure at the back of the toilet. Then, extend the tape measure to the center of the drainpipe. The measurement you read is the rough-in measurement.

3. Locate the center of the drainpipe in the floor

The next step is to locate the center of the drainpipe in the floor. This can be done by using a stud finder or by simply looking for the drainpipe in the floor. Once you have located the center of the drainpipe, mark it with a pencil.

4. Mark the center of the drainpipe with a pencil

The final step is to mark the center of the drainpipe with a pencil. This will help you to position the toilet correctly when you install it.

Measuring a toilet rough in is a simple process that can be completed in a few minutes. By following these steps, you can ensure that you install your toilet correctly and avoid any potential problems.

Here are some additional tips for measuring a toilet rough in:

  • Make sure that the toilet is level before you take the measurement.
  • If you are not sure how to measure the rough-in, you can always consult a professional plumber.
  • Be sure to mark the center of the drainpipe with a pencil so that you can position the toilet correctly.

By following these tips, you can easily measure a toilet rough in and install your toilet correctly.

How do I measure a toilet rough in?

To measure a toilet rough in, you will need a tape measure and a pencil.

1. Locate the toilet flange. The toilet flange is the metal ring that the toilet bowl sits on. It is typically located 12 inches from the wall in the center of the toilet.
2. Measure the distance from the wall to the center of the toilet flange. This is the rough-in measurement.
3. Record the measurement. You will need this measurement when you purchase a new toilet.

What is a standard toilet rough in?

The standard toilet rough in is 12 inches. However, some toilets may have a different rough in. It is important to check the rough in measurement of your toilet before you purchase a new one.

What if my toilet rough in is not standard?

If your toilet rough in is not standard, you will need to purchase a toilet that has a matching rough in. You can find toilets with a variety of rough ins, so you should be able to find one that fits your bathroom.

How do I install a toilet with a non-standard rough in?

Installing a toilet with a non-standard rough in can be more difficult than installing a toilet with a standard rough in. You may need to hire a professional plumber to install the toilet for you.

What are the different types of toilet rough ins?

There are three main types of toilet rough ins:

  • 10-inch rough in: This is the most common type of toilet rough in. The toilet flange is located 10 inches from the wall in the center of the toilet.
  • 12-inch rough in: This is the second most common type of toilet rough in. The toilet flange is located 12 inches from the wall in the center of the toilet.
  • 14-inch rough in: This is the least common type of toilet rough in. The toilet flange is located 14 inches from the wall in the center of the toilet.

How can I tell if my toilet rough in is 10-inch, 12-inch, or 14-inch?

To tell if your toilet rough in is 10-inch, 12-inch, or 14-inch, you can measure the distance from the wall to the center of the toilet flange. If the distance is 10 inches, then you have a 10-inch rough in. If the distance is 12 inches, then you have a 12-inch rough in. If the distance is 14 inches, then you have a 14-inch rough in.

measuring a toilet rough in is a relatively simple process that can be completed in just a few minutes. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your toilet is installed correctly and will function properly for years to come.

Here are a few key takeaways to remember when measuring a toilet rough in:

  • The rough in measurement is the distance from the center of the drain pipe to the back wall of the toilet flange.
  • The standard rough in measurement is 12 inches, but it can vary depending on the toilet model.
  • It is important to measure the rough in before you purchase a toilet so that you can ensure that it will fit properly in your bathroom.
  • If you are not comfortable measuring the rough in yourself, you can have a professional plumber do it for you.

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.