How to Measure for a New Toilet (The Ultimate Guide)

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How to Measure for a New 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 it will fit in your bathroom. This means measuring the space where the toilet will go, as well as the rough-in dimensions.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of measuring for a new toilet. We’ll cover everything you need to know, from measuring the toilet opening to determining the rough-in dimensions. By the end of this article, you’ll be able to confidently buy a new toilet that’s the perfect fit for your bathroom.

What You Need to Measure

To measure for a new toilet, you’ll need to know the following dimensions:

  • The toilet opening width
  • The toilet opening height
  • The rough-in dimensions

The toilet opening width is the distance between the two bolts on the back of the toilet. This measurement is typically around 18 inches.

The toilet opening height is the distance from the floor to the top of the toilet bowl. This measurement is typically around 14 inches.

The rough-in dimensions are the measurements of the drainpipe and water supply line. The drainpipe is typically 3 inches in diameter, and the water supply line is typically 1/2 inch in diameter.

How to Measure the Toilet Opening

To measure the toilet opening width, you’ll need to measure the distance between the two bolts on the back of the toilet. To do this, stand in front of the toilet and look at the back. You should see two bolts located on either side of the toilet bowl. Use a tape measure to measure the distance between the centers of the two bolts.

To measure the toilet opening height, you’ll need to measure the distance from the floor to the top of the toilet bowl. To do this, stand in front of the toilet and look at the top of the toilet bowl. Use a tape measure to measure the distance from the floor to the top of the toilet bowl.

How to Determine the Rough-In Dimensions

The rough-in dimensions are the measurements of the drainpipe and water supply line. To determine the rough-in dimensions, you’ll need to locate the drainpipe and water supply line in your bathroom.

The drainpipe is typically located in the floor, near the back of the toilet. The water supply line is typically located in the wall, behind the toilet.

Once you’ve located the drainpipe and water supply line, you can measure their dimensions. The drainpipe is typically 3 inches in diameter, and the water supply line is typically 1/2 inch in diameter.

By following these steps, you can easily measure for a new toilet. Be sure to measure the toilet opening width, the toilet opening height, and the rough-in dimensions. With this information, you’ll be able to buy a new toilet that’s the perfect fit for your bathroom.

Step Measurement Instructions
1 Toilet Bowl Height Measure the distance from the floor to the center of the toilet bowl rim.
2 Toilet Bowl Depth Measure the distance from the front of the toilet bowl to the back of the toilet bowl.
3 Toilet Bowl Width Measure the width of the toilet bowl from the left side to the right side.
4 Toilet Rough-In Measure the distance from the back of the toilet flange to the wall.

Determine the Type of Toilet You Need

Before you can measure for a new toilet, you need to determine the type of toilet you need. There are many different types of toilets on the market, so it’s important to choose one that is right for your needs.

Here are some of the most common types of toilets:

  • Standard toilet. A standard toilet is the most common type of toilet. It has a round bowl and a tank that sits on top of the bowl. Standard toilets are typically 16 to 18 inches wide and 28 to 30 inches deep.
  • One-piece toilet. A one-piece toilet is a toilet that has the bowl and tank molded together as a single unit. One-piece toilets are typically more expensive than standard toilets, but they are also more stylish and easier to clean.
  • Two-piece toilet. A two-piece toilet is a toilet that has the bowl and tank separate. Two-piece toilets are typically less expensive than one-piece toilets, but they are also more difficult to clean.
  • Elongated toilet. An elongated toilet has a longer bowl than a standard toilet. Elongated toilets are typically more comfortable to sit on, but they take up more space than standard toilets.
  • Round toilet. A round toilet has a shorter bowl than an elongated toilet. Round toilets are typically less comfortable to sit on, but they take up less space than elongated toilets.
  • Low-profile toilet. A low-profile toilet is a toilet that is shorter than a standard toilet. Low-profile toilets are typically easier to get in and out of, but they have a smaller bowl than standard toilets.
  • ADA-compliant toilet. An ADA-compliant toilet is a toilet that meets the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). ADA-compliant toilets are typically wider and have a higher seat than standard toilets.

Once you have determined the type of toilet you need, you can begin to measure for your new toilet.

Measure the Existing Toilet

To measure for a new toilet, you will need to measure the existing toilet. Here are the steps to measure your existing toilet:

1. Measure the bowl width. The bowl width is the distance from the front of the bowl to the back of the bowl.
2. Measure the bowl length. The bowl length is the distance from the left side of the bowl to the right side of the bowl.
3. Measure the bowl height. The bowl height is the distance from the floor to the top of the bowl.
4. Measure the rough-in distance. The rough-in distance is the distance from the center of the toilet flange to the wall.

Once you have measured your existing toilet, you can use these measurements to choose a new toilet that is the right size for your bathroom.

Bowl width

The bowl width is the distance from the front of the bowl to the back of the bowl. Standard toilets typically have a bowl width of 16 to 18 inches. Elongated toilets typically have a bowl width of 19 to 20 inches.

Bowl length

The bowl length is the distance from the left side of the bowl to the right side of the bowl. Standard toilets typically have a bowl length of 28 to 30 inches. Elongated toilets typically have a bowl length of 32 to 34 inches.

Bowl height

The bowl height is the distance from the floor to the top of the bowl. Standard toilets typically have a bowl height of 14 to 16 inches. Elongated toilets typically have a bowl height of 15 to 17 inches.

Rough-in distance

The rough-in distance is the distance from the center of the toilet flange to the wall. The standard rough-in distance is 12 inches. However, some toilets have a different rough-in distance. It is important to measure the rough-in distance before you buy a new toilet.

Measuring for a new toilet can be a daunting task, but it is important to get the measurements right so that you can choose a toilet that is the right size for your bathroom. By following these steps, you can easily measure your existing toilet and choose a new toilet that is perfect for your needs.

How to Measure for a New Toilet?

1. Measure the Existing Toilet

The first step in measuring for a new toilet is to measure the existing toilet. This will give you the dimensions of the toilet bowl, the tank, and the rough-in.

To measure the toilet bowl, you will need to measure the width, the depth, and the height. The width is measured from the front of the toilet to the back. The depth is measured from the front of the toilet to the back of the bowl. The height is measured from the floor to the top of the toilet seat.

To measure the tank, you will need to measure the width, the depth, and the height. The width is measured from the left side of the tank to the right side. The depth is measured from the front of the tank to the back. The height is measured from the floor to the top of the tank.

To measure the rough-in, you will need to measure the distance from the back of the toilet to the center of the drainpipe. This measurement is typically 12 inches, but it may vary depending on the type of toilet you have.

2. Choose a Toilet That Fits Your Space

Once you have measured the existing toilet, you can start choosing a new toilet. When choosing a toilet, it is important to make sure that the toilet is the right size for your bathroom.

The size of the toilet bowl is important to consider, as you want to make sure that there is enough space for you to sit comfortably. The depth of the toilet bowl is also important, as you want to make sure that your feet can comfortably reach the floor.

The size of the tank is also important to consider, as you want to make sure that there is enough space for the tank to fit in your bathroom. The height of the tank is also important, as you want to make sure that the tank does not interfere with your shower or bathtub.

In addition to the size of the toilet, you also need to consider the features and benefits of the toilet. Some toilets have features such as a bidet, a self-cleaning function, or a heated seat. You need to decide which features are important to you and choose a toilet that has those features.

You also need to make sure that the toilet is within your budget. There are a variety of toilets available at different price points, so you should be able to find a toilet that fits your budget.

3. Install the New Toilet

Once you have chosen a new toilet, you can install it yourself or hire a plumber to do it for you. If you are installing the toilet yourself, you will need to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation.

To install the toilet, you will need to remove the old toilet and then install the new toilet. To remove the old toilet, you will need to disconnect the water supply and the drain. You will also need to remove the bolts that hold the toilet to the floor.

Once the old toilet is removed, you can install the new toilet. To install the new toilet, you will need to connect the water supply and the drain. You will also need to attach the toilet to the floor.

Once the toilet is installed, you will need to test it to make sure that it is working properly. You can do this by flushing the toilet and checking for leaks.

Measuring for a new toilet and installing a new toilet can be a daunting task, but it is a job that most homeowners can do themselves. By following the steps in this guide, you can easily measure for a new toilet and install a new toilet in your bathroom.

Here are some additional tips for measuring for a new toilet and installing a new toilet:

  • If you are not comfortable measuring for a new toilet or installing a new toilet, you can hire a plumber to do the job for you.
  • Make sure that you have all of the necessary tools and materials before you start the job.
  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation carefully.
  • Test the toilet to make sure that it is working properly before you use it.

    How do I measure for a new toilet?

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

  • The distance between the center of the toilet flange and the wall behind it
  • The distance from the floor to the top of the toilet seat
  • The width of the toilet bowl
  • The depth of the toilet bowl

To find the distance between the center of the toilet flange and the wall behind it, measure from the center of the toilet flange to the wall behind it.

To find the distance from the floor to the top of the toilet seat, measure from the floor to the top of the toilet seat.

To find the width of the toilet bowl, measure the width of the toilet bowl from the front to the back.

To find the depth of the toilet bowl, measure the depth of the toilet bowl from the front to the back.

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

What if my toilet flange is not in the center of the wall?

If your toilet flange is not in the center of the wall, you will need to either move the flange or choose a toilet that will fit around it.

To move the flange, you will need to remove the toilet and the flange. Then, you will need to re-install the flange in the desired location.

If you do not want to move the flange, you can choose a toilet that has a offset bowl. An offset bowl is a toilet bowl that is not centered on the toilet base. This allows the toilet to fit around an existing toilet flange that is not in the center of the wall.

What if my bathroom is too small for a standard toilet?

If your bathroom is too small for a standard toilet, you can choose a compact toilet. A compact toilet is a toilet that is smaller than a standard toilet. This allows it to fit in smaller bathrooms.

Compact toilets are available in both elongated and round bowls. They are also available in a variety of heights, so you can find one that is comfortable for you to use.

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

A one-piece toilet is a toilet that is made from a single piece of porcelain. A two-piece toilet is a toilet that is made from two pieces: the toilet bowl and the toilet tank.

One-piece toilets are typically more expensive than two-piece toilets. However, they are also more durable and easier to clean. Two-piece toilets are less expensive than one-piece toilets. However, they are more difficult to install and clean.

Ultimately, the best type of toilet for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a durable and easy-to-clean toilet, a one-piece toilet is a good option. If you are looking for a more affordable toilet, a two-piece toilet is a good option.

How do I install a new toilet?

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

  • A new toilet
  • A toilet flange
  • A wax ring
  • A toilet seat
  • A screwdriver
  • A wrench
  • A plunger
  • A bucket
  • Plumbing tape

To install the toilet, follow these steps:

1. Remove the old toilet.
2. Install the toilet flange.
3. Apply the wax ring to the toilet flange.
4. Position the toilet on the flange.
5. Secure the toilet to the floor with the bolts provided.
6. Connect the water supply line to the toilet.
7. Connect the drain line to the toilet.
8. Install the toilet seat.

Once the toilet is installed, you can test it by flushing it. If the toilet flushes properly, you are finished. If the toilet does not flush properly, you may need to adjust the water level in the toilet tank.

How do I maintain my toilet?

To maintain your toilet, you should do the following:

  • Flush the toilet regularly.
  • Clean the toilet bowl with a toilet brush and toilet cleaner.
  • Clean the toilet tank with a descaler.
  • Replace the toilet seat gasket if it is damaged.
  • Replace the toilet flapper if it is leaking.

By following these tips, you can keep your toilet in good working order and prevent any major problems.

In this blog post, we have discussed how to measure for a new toilet. We have covered the different types of toilets and the measurements you need to take in order to find the right one for your bathroom. We hope this information has been helpful and that you are now able to choose the perfect toilet for your needs.

Here are a few key takeaways:

  • Toilet bowls come in two different shapes: round and elongated. Round bowls are more common, but elongated bowls offer more comfort.
  • Toilet seats come in two different heights: standard and comfort height. Comfort height seats are easier to get on and off of, but they take up more space.
  • The distance between the toilet and the wall should be at least 24 inches. This allows enough space for the toilet seat to open and close.
  • The distance between the toilet and the back of the toilet tank should be at least 15 inches. This allows enough space for you to sit comfortably on the toilet.

By following these tips, you can be sure to choose the perfect toilet for 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.