Installing a toilet may seem straightforward, but several toilet installation mistakes can cause issues. As a homeowner, you want to avoid them and make conscious decisions. Improper seals, toilet leaks and drainage problems are very common. To avoid them, you must get in touch with professionals with years of experience in dealing with plumbing and toilet installation issues.
Platinum Plumbers are here to help you. With years of experience in toilet plumbing, we understand the importance of a properly installed toilet to avoid costly mistakes and frustrating issues down the line.
Call us on 020 8855 0361 or drop us an email at with your bathroom-related enquiries.
Let Platinum Plumbers take the stress out of your toilet installation problems. Our expert team offers a personalised, hassle-free service to ensure your toilet is installed correctly and efficiently.
1. Incorrect Toilet Bowl Alignment
One of the most common toilet installation problems is improper alignment of the toilet bowl. If the toilet is not aligned correctly with the drain, it can lead to poor flushing performance and potential leaks.
How to avoid:
Ensure that the toilet is positioned correctly before securing it. Double-check the alignment with the flange and the drainpipe. Use a level to confirm that the toilet sits flat on the floor.
2. Improper Toilet Seal Installation
An essential aspect of proper toilet installation is securing the right seal between the toilet and the flange. If the seal is not installed correctly, it can cause toilet leaks and unpleasant odours.
How to avoid:
Use a high-quality wax ring or a rubber seal designed for toilet installation. Ensure the ring is centred correctly on the flange before placing the toilet down. Tips from industry experts on toilet installation emphasise not reusing old seals, which can become brittle and ineffective.
3. Ignoring The Toilet Slope
The toilet slope is often overlooked during installation. If the toilet is not level, it can cause improper flushing and discomfort during use.
How to avoid:
Before securing the toilet to the floor, ensure that the toilet is perfectly level in all directions. Use shims if necessary to adjust the height of the toilet to achieve a level position.
4. Forgetting To Tighten the Toilet Bolts
One common DIY toilet installation mistake is forgetting to tighten the bolts that secure the toilet to the floor. Loose bolts can result in the toilet shifting over time, which may cause leaks or damage.
How to avoid:
When installing the toilet, tighten the bolts securely but avoid over-tightening, as this can crack the porcelain. Use a wrench to tighten each bolt gradually, ensuring the toilet is firmly in place without damaging it.
5. Not Checking For Leaks Before Sealing
Another mistake people often make is failing to check for leaks before finalising the installation. If a leak occurs and you proceed with sealing the toilet, you may have a bigger problem later.
How to Avoid:
After placing the toilet, check for any water leaks around the base. Flush the toilet and inspect the area for any sign of water leakage. If leaks are found, tighten bolts or replace seals before sealing the toilet.
6. Using The Wrong Toilet Flange
The toilet flange is a crucial component that connects the toilet to the drainpipe. Using the wrong flange or improperly securing it can result in toilet plumbing failures and leaks.
How to avoid:
Ensure that the flange matches the size of your drainpipe. It should sit flat on the floor and be securely fastened to prevent movement. Toilet plumbing experts recommend replacing the flange if it’s damaged or corroded, which can lead to persistent problems.
7. Not Ensuring Proper Drainage Flow
A common toilet plumbing mistake is not ensuring proper drainage flow. If the toilet’s drain is not sloped correctly or the drainpipe is obstructed, it can result in poor flushing or drainage problems.
How to avoid:
Check the slope of the drainpipe before installation. Ideally, there should be a slight downward slope to ensure proper flow. If the slope is incorrect, consult a plumber to fix the issue before installing.
8. Installing The Toilet In The Wrong Position
Sometimes, incorrect installation occurs because the toilet is positioned too far from the wall or in an awkward spot. This can cause issues with accessibility and prevent the toilet from functioning correctly.
How to avoid:
When placing the toilet, ensure it is positioned correctly according to the plumbing layout. The centre of the toilet should align with the drainpipe and the flange. Get in touch with expert bathroom fitters in London who can ensure that the toilet fits correctly.
9. Overlooking Ventilation
Proper ventilation is essential for a well-functioning toilet installation. If the ventilation system is blocked or not set up correctly, it can lead to unpleasant odours and poor toilet performance.
How to avoid:
Ensure that the toilet is connected to an adequate ventilation system. A vent pipe should be installed to prevent any airlocks in the plumbing system, which can cause issues with flushing and lead to toilet problems over time.
10. Skipping Professional Help For Complex Issues
While DIY toilet installation can be tempting, some plumbing tasks should be left to professionals. For complex issues like incorrect drainpipe installation or damaged plumbing, skipping professional help can lead to toilet plumbing failures that are expensive to fix.
How to avoid:
If you encounter any plumbing issues outside your skillset, don’t hesitate to call a professional. They can provide the expertise to address the problem and ensure your toilet installation is done correctly.
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Final Thoughts
You don’t have to break the bank for a stunning toilet installation or bathroom makeover. With the right fixtures, smart use of space, and attention to detail, you can transform your bathroom into your favourite space. For the best toilet installations and expert bathroom fitters in South London, look no further than Platinum Plumbers.
Whether upgrading your toilet or planning a complete renovation, our team is here to provide affordable, high-quality solutions.
Contact us today for free quotes!