Getting The Rough-In Right For Your Toilet Installation
Need to install a new toilet? Well, there's a lot to think about beyond just picking a fancy new throne from the shop. There are the plumbing regulations, there's the S-traps and P-traps, water supply lines, wax rings, sealants, bolts - and a million other things! Perhaps the most crucial and yet frequently overlooked step in toilet installation is accurately measuring what is referred to as the rough-in distance - ensuring your new toilet fits perfectly in your bathroom's existing layout. How to go about measuring a toilet rough-in? Let's take a deep dive:
The importance of getting the rough-in exactly right
What's the toilet rough-in, we hear you wonder? In a nutshell, it's simply the distance from the wall to the centre of the toilet's drainpipe. Why's it so complex, then? Because it needs to be super-precise.
Knowing how to measure a toilet rough in can be the difference between your toilet fitting into its spot like a glove, or costly modifications that could triple the cost of your renovations. So why is measuring a toilet rough in difficult? Well, there are those existing fixtures, uneven walls, or skirting boards that can obscure the true measurement. Also, older homes may not adhere to standard distances, and any measurement error can lead to significant issues - from improper toilet placement to potential leaks or difficulty in future repairs.
So while it may sound simple when you read the steps for measuring a toilet rough in, getting it absolutely accurate and correct is delicate - but it will set the foundation for a successful installation of your home's favourite seat.
Learn the steps: How to measure a toilet rough in
Just want to skip to the part where you learn how to measure a toilet rough-in? Let's get straight to the point:
1. Locate the drain pipe
Begin by identifying the dead centre of the toilet's drain pipe. This can be quite tricky, especially if it's obscured by existing fixtures, layered flooring, custom tiles or rust and build-up.
2. Measure from the wall
Grab your tape measure and determine the distance from the wall to the centre of the drain pipe. Make sure you account for any skirting boards or uneven wall surfaces, which can affect the critical accuracy of your measurement.
3. Check side clearance
Also super-important is to measure the distance from the sides of the drain pipe to any obstructions - like cabinets or other fixtures. This step ensures there'll be enough space for installation and future maintenance.
4. Consider bolt positions
The position of the closet bolts, which secure the toilet to the floor, is another factor that cannot be overlooked. Their placement can vary and may impact the type of toilet that is suitable for your space.
5. Factor-in toilet design
Bear in mind that different toilet designs (like elongated vs round bowls) have varying space requirements. Your rough-in measurement therefore needs to take into account the specific design of the toilet you're planning to install.
The importance of precise measurements in toilet installation
The steps above may sound concise, but they involve a level of precision and understanding of bathroom layout that can be quite daunting for the average homeowner to get their head around confidently. So why not leave the complexities to the pros right here at In Deep Plumbing?
Our experienced team is well-versed in every aspect of toilet installation, from accurately measuring the rough-in to ensuring a perfect, leak-free fit. We pride ourselves on our attention to detail, adherence to Australian standards, and commitment to customer satisfaction. With In Deep Plumbing, you're not just getting a new toilet installed, you're getting the peace of mind that comes from professional, efficient toilet plumbing service. So give the friendly team a call today!
