Relocating Your Toilet: A Step-by-Step Guide for DIYers

by Keira May 25, 2024

written by Keira May 25, 2024

Moving a Toilet: A Comprehensive Guide

Planning Your Toilet Relocation

Moving a toilet requires careful planning and consideration, especially if you aim to maintain the bathroom’s footprint while enhancing its layout.

Accessing the Plumbing

To access the toilet’s drainage and water supply lines, you can either remove a section of subfloor or demolish a portion of the drywall ceiling below. Choose the method that best suits your situation and minimizes disruption.

Removing the Existing Toilet

Remove the old toilet from its location and cap the drainpipe to prevent sewer gases from entering the home. Carefully set aside the toilet for reuse or dispose of it appropriately.

Relocating the Drain Pipe

The new drain pipe should be routed to connect to the waste-vent stack while maintaining a downward slope of 1/4-inch per horizontal foot. Use long-sweep 90-degree bends and wye fittings to ensure smooth drainage.

Installing the Drain Stub-Out

Attach a 90-degree toilet bend to the end of the new drain pipe and glue a short length of pipe vertically through the subfloor.

Running the Water Supply Lines

Extend the existing water supply line using PEX piping, connecting it to the new toilet location with a fixture shut-off valve exposed through the wall.

Installing the Toilet Flange

Replace the subfloor and flooring, cut the drain pipe flush with the floor level, and solvent-glue the toilet closet flange in place. Secure the flange to the subfloor with screws.

Reinstalling the Toilet

Place the toilet on top of the flange, connect the water supply, and turn it on. Test the toilet to ensure proper operation.

Considerations for Specific Situations

Moving a Toilet on a Concrete Slab:

This typically requires professional assistance as it involves breaking up the slab to access the plumbing.

Moving a Toilet a Few Inches:

The cost and complexity vary depending on the space and plumbing conditions.

Installing a Toilet Anywhere in the House:

While technically possible, it requires sufficient space and appropriate plumbing and electrical infrastructure, which may need to be installed professionally.

Relocating a Toilet to a Shower Drain:

Technically feasible, but the drainage pipe may need to be modified to accommodate a toilet.

Additional Tips:

Use a roughing guide to determine the precise piping location and avoid obstructions.
Consider adding structural reinforcement if pipe alterations compromise the floor framing’s strength.
Support drain and water supply pipes along their length with straps.
Ensure all fittings are securely glued or connected to prevent leaks.
Test the toilet thoroughly after installation to ensure proper functionality.

Keira

Keira is a seasoned gardener with a rich background in education and a passion for transforming even the smallest, most challenging spaces into lush, productive gardens. With over two decades of experience in both teaching and gardening, she brings a unique blend of skills and insights to Life Science Art, where she shares her expertise through engaging and informative articles. Keira's journey into gardening began in her early years, inspired by her grandmother's ability to coax vibrant blooms and hearty vegetables from the rocky soil of their family farm. This early exposure to the wonders of gardening planted a seed of curiosity and love for plants that has only grown over the years. Before fully immersing herself in the world of gardening, Keira spent many years as a special education teacher. This role honed her patience, creativity, and problem-solving skills—qualities that have proven invaluable in her gardening endeavors. Her teaching experience also gave her a deep understanding of the diverse needs and capabilities of individuals, which she now applies to helping others learn to garden effectively, regardless of their starting point. Keira specializes in small-space gardening, low-income gardening, and cultivating plants in poor soil conditions. She understands that not everyone has access to vast, fertile lands or unlimited resources, and she is dedicated to making gardening accessible and rewarding for everyone. Living in urban areas or having limited outdoor space shouldn't be a barrier to enjoying the benefits of gardening. Keira has mastered the art of maximizing every inch of available space, whether it's a tiny balcony, a cramped backyard, or a window sill. Her innovative techniques and creative solutions help her readers grow a variety of plants in the most confined spaces. Keira is also a strong advocate for low-income gardening. She believes that everyone should have the opportunity to grow their own food and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of gardening, regardless of their financial situation. Through her articles, she shares practical tips on budget-friendly gardening methods, repurposing household items, and making the most of available resources. Her advice empowers individuals and families to start and maintain gardens without breaking the bank. Not everyone is blessed with rich, loamy soil. Keira's expertise extends to growing plants in less-than-ideal soil conditions. She provides guidance on improving soil quality, selecting hardy plant varieties, and employing sustainable practices to ensure a bountiful harvest, even in challenging environments. Her hands-on experience and proven techniques help gardeners turn even the poorest soil into a thriving garden. Keira's contributions to Life Science Art are invaluable. Her articles cover a wide range of topics, from step-by-step guides on planting and maintaining specific types of gardens to tips on dealing with common gardening challenges. She also delves into the science behind plant growth, soil health, and sustainable gardening practices, making complex concepts accessible to readers of all backgrounds. Beyond her technical expertise, Keira's writing is infused with warmth and encouragement. She understands that gardening is not just about growing plants; it's about fostering a connection with nature, finding peace and fulfillment, and building a community. Her personal anecdotes and down-to-earth advice resonate with readers, inspiring them to embark on their own gardening journeys with confidence and joy. Keira invites you to join her on Life Science Art, where she shares her wealth of knowledge and passion for gardening. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, her articles offer valuable insights, practical tips, and the inspiration you need to create your own green oasis. Discover the joys of gardening with Keira as your guide and unlock the potential of your outdoor space, no matter how small or challenging it may be.