To measure a toilet correctly, you need to take specific measurements to ensure it fits your bathroom.
Measure the rough-in by calculating the distance from the wall behind the toilet to the center of the drain or bolts at its base.
Record the tank height by measuring from the floor to the top of the tank.
Evaluate the bowl's shape to determine the space it requires.
Additionally, check seat compatibility and ensure there is enough clearance around the toilet.
These steps are vital for a proper installation or replacement.
Understanding Toilet Dimensions
When choosing a new toilet, it's important to consider various dimensions like the rough-in size, tank height, and bowl shape to ensure it fits your bathroom. The rough-in size is the distance from the wall to the drainpipe center or floor bolts, usually 12 inches, but sometimes 10 or 14 inches in older or smaller bathrooms. Measure this with a tape measure.
Tank height is measured from the floor to the top of the tank, typically 14 to 15 inches, affecting comfort and ease of use.
The shape of the bowl also affects comfort and space. Elongated bowls are up to 31 inches from the wall, offering more comfort for adults, while round bowls, up to 28 inches, save space.
Knowing these measurements before buying a toilet ensures the new fixture fits well and is comfortable and practical for users.
Measuring the Rough-In
To measure the rough-in size for a toilet, follow these steps:
- Measure from the wall behind the toilet to the center of the closet bolts or drainpipe on the floor. Use a tape measure for this.
- If there are bolts at the base of the toilet, identify them and measure from the wall to the center of these bolts.
- If you are measuring a drainpipe instead of bolts, use the same center measurement rule.
Common rough-in sizes include 10, 12, and 14 inches. However, the standard size in most homes is 12 inches. It's important to verify the rough-in size before purchasing a new toilet, especially if the home is older or if the toilet design is unique.
When measuring, make sure to account for any obstacles that could interfere with the installation, such as water lines, valves, or baseboards. These obstacles should be considered to ensure a proper toilet fit and to prevent any potential installation issues.
Determining Tank Size
After checking the rough-in dimension, the next step is to measure the tank height to ensure it will fit the space above and behind the toilet. This measurement is crucial for compatibility with the bathroom's size. Use a tape measure from the floor to the top of the toilet tank to measure the tank size for a replacement toilet, which is usually between 14 to 15 inches high. For ADA-compliant toilets, the rim height should be 15 to 17 inches for accessibility.
When measuring for a replacement toilet, also consider the Plumbing Code, which may dictate the allowed dimensions for your bathroom. The tank must not obstruct any fixtures or access to plumbing. If the rough-in size is non-standard, such as 10 or 14 inches, choose a toilet tank that matches these dimensions to avoid major plumbing changes.
Evaluate the area above the toilet for any fixed storage, decorative items, and obstacles like water lines or valves. These may require a tank with a lower height or different shape to fit properly.
Bowl Shape and Size
After measuring the tank, consider the toilet bowl's shape and size for fit and comfort. Bowls are mainly elongated or round. Elongated bowls are oval and can be up to 31 inches from the wall, offering more seating area and comfort, suitable for larger individuals. Round bowls are more circular, extending about 28 inches from the wall, saving space and fitting well in small bathrooms.
Also, check the rough-in distance, the space from the wall to the toilet flange on the floor. Standard rough-in is 12 inches, but older homes may have 10 or 14 inches. This measurement is critical for bowl compatibility.
Choose between elongated and round bowls based on comfort and bathroom size. Ensure the rough-in dimension matches to avoid extra costs.
Checking Seat Compatibility
To ensure a new toilet seat fits, measure your toilet's dimensions and shape carefully. Confirm whether your toilet bowl is round or elongated, as seats are designed for specific shapes. Measure the length from the front of the bowl to the seat post holes and the width at the widest point.
Choose a seat that matches the model of your toilet, taking into account any additional fixtures like bidet attachments or seat risers. Select a seat for fit, comfort, and style, and check compatibility to ensure a proper toilet seat replacement.
Account for Clearance Space
When installing a new toilet, it is important to measure the clearance space to ensure it meets local building codes and provides comfort. The standard clearance space requires at least 15 to 18 inches from the toilet's centerline to any side walls or fixtures, and at least 30 inches of space in front of the toilet.
Accurately measure clearance space by considering obstacles such as water lines, valves, and baseboards that may encroach on the required area. Also, consider any overhead storage or decor that could influence the choice of toilet tank and bowl size.
Account for the thickness of drywall and the rough-in dimension, which is the distance from the wall to the toilet's floor bolts. Confirming these measurements before purchasing ensures the new toilet fits properly during installation.
For assistance with measuring clearance space or choosing a toilet, consult with manufacturers like American Standard or seek advice from professionals at local home improvement stores. Their expertise can help ensure a compliant and successful toilet installation.
Final Considerations Before Purchase
Before buying a toilet, measure the rough-in, tank height, bowl size, and clearance space to prevent the need for costly adjustments or returns. Choose a toilet that fits your bathroom's space and matches your plumbing setup for a seamless installation.
Be aware of the tank height and ensure it doesn't interfere with overhead shelving or decor. Incorrect measurements can lead to conflicts with existing bathroom features, resulting in additional changes.
If you prefer an elongated bowl for comfort, measure the space from the back wall to the front of the bowl to make sure it doesn't reduce necessary clearance space. Replacing a toilet with a different size can be challenging due to obstructions like water lines and valves. When in doubt, seek advice from manufacturers like American Standard to avoid installation issues.
Avoid replacing a 10-inch rough-in toilet with a 12-inch model to prevent extra plumbing costs. Double-check all measurements and consider any extra work before making a purchase.
