Toilet replacement doesn't sound like the most appealing project, but take note that it is quite an essential one.
The moment you notice wobbling, leaking water, or any visible cracks in your toilet– it might be the right time to replace it.
The average cost to replace a toilet ranges between $450 and $750. This would include labor, the actual replacement toilet, and supplies. However, the total project expenses will depend on the toilet type and other related conditions.
Keep in mind that a functioning toilet offers the convenience and comfort you'd expect in a bathroom.
That's why you need to invest in toilet replacement costs at your convenience, so you won't have to deal with an unpleasant emergency leak (or other problems).
Toilet Replacement Costs Overview
- Toilet Replacement Costs: $138 to $265
- Plumber prices per hour: $75
- Removal of existing toilet: $35 to $57
- Typical toilet price range: $172 to $287
Suppose the plumber has to deal with unexpected issues during the installation process, it may increase the labor costs up to $920.
Repairs include leaks from insufficient caulking, cracked flange, or an improperly installed wax ring seal.
If you have another toilet on the second floor, plumbers may charge from $57 to $230 since they need to carry the toilet unit upstairs.
The cost to replace a toilet will also vary on your chosen model, removal expenses, and the like. Therefore, it’s essential to consider each variable to get a general idea of what to expect.
In some cases, an older toilet will not be as efficient as a new one even if it’s working correctly– prompting the need for a replacement.
Factors that Influence Toilet Replacement Costs
Several factors impact the total toilet replacement costs. Your project estimate may vary from the national average, depending on additional fees for existing toilet removal, local labor costs, and the toilet type.
Let’s discuss the most defining variables in detail.
Labor Costs
Most plumbers charge $75 to $143 per hour for labor. And an experienced plumber can usually knock out a toilet replacement project in an hour.
That said, don’t expect the hourly rate to apply. While the plumber may only be at your home for an hour, commuting to your home may take another hour in total. Then there is the overhead cost associated with the plumbing business and actually getting a truck to your home. For that reason expect a flat rate cost for installation of a toilet of about $250 - $300. If you have more than one toilet being replaced at the same time, you could expect a lower cost.
Old pipes may also need replacement to follow building codes or leaks in the flooring or walls. Problems like these will only increase the labor and installation costs associated with the project.
Old Toilet Removal
If you need to remove and dispose of your old toilet for a timely replacement, this will cost you an additional $30 to $50.
Some homeowners looking to cut costs opt to do the removal themselves.
Fortunately, some companies already include the removal and disposal of old toilets in their service estimate. Consult with your plumber to know if it is already covered in your quote.
Toilet Types
Aside from the professional labor costs, you will also need to account for the upfront cost of the toilet itself in your budget.
For residential applications the toilet itself will range from $100 for a barebones, standard height, ‘builders grade’ toilet to $700 for something with a more comfortable shape / height, better water efficiency, and a nicer style. They can go much high for wall mounting or smart features.
One Piece vs Two Piece Toilets
A standard residential toilet is a what is known as a ‘two-piece’ toilet (less expensive). They are distinguishable by having a seperate bowl & tank.
One-piece toilets have a smooth and sleek design that will often reflect a ‘modern home’. These are slightly more expensive.
Aside from appearance, there fundamentally is not much difference between the one or two piece toilets.
Toilet Efficiency
In a world of limited resources, the water usage of a toilet is an important consideration. Some locales even mandate minimum standards for toilet efficiency.
Effiency of toilet is a measured in “gpf” (gallons per flush). Prior to 1992 toilets had a gpf rating ranging of 3.5 - 7. These days a US federal mandate limits them to 1.6.
On the side of Ultra High efficiency toilets are dual flush toilets with a gpf rating of .92. These toilets have two buttons… so that when you just have a “number one” you can minimize water usage, or use a little bit more if you have a #2.
Custom Height/Shape Toilet
The standard height of a toilet is about 15” and the lowest cost models come in a circular shape starting around $100.
Taller toilets with an elongated bowl provide a bit more comfort and are considered a worthy investment if it is your ‘forever’ home. Entry level toilets at 17” high with an elongated bowl start at a cost around $140.
Location
Replacing a toilet in the basement costs around $427. Accordingly, you will need to pay more than the estimated cost if you need new plumbing in any living space.
Several plumbers also tend to charge you extra fees if the toilet replacement project happens on the upper floors.
Job Complexity
Complex toilet replacement jobs requiring repairs or taking longer than usual will only drive up the final price.
So you can prepare the proper budget, it’s better to ask for a detailed breakdown involving complicated projects.
For instance, a new toilet model may not fit a designated space– prolonging the replacement project further. To avoid this, always measure your ideal toilet size before purchasing a new one.
Similarly, a damaged or corroded flange will require replacement costing $207 to $638 for both material and labor costs.
Additional Costs and Considerations
There are several price factors in a toilet replacement project to take into consideration. Familiarize the different cost factors to ensure you won’t go beyond your budget.
Plumber Expertise
Expert plumbers with an excellent track record tend to charge more for their hourly rates. Some plumbers specialize in a particular plumbing area. Hence you may need to pay them more than less-experienced ones.
Leaks and Clogs
First, you may need to repair leaks and clogs before entirely replacing the toilet, which will cost you several hundred dollars. Expect to pay more if you’re dealing with a severe clog or blockage to your home plumbing system.
In some cases, your plumber might move, reseat, or reseal the toilet to do the repairs properly. It will only increase the replacement costs accordingly.
Flooring
Damaged bathroom floors from leaking water will cost you around $6 to $11 per square meter in flooring replacement. Unfortunately, several homeowners remain unaware of the water damage extent in their bathrooms before removing the toilet from the floor.
Ideally, repair or replace the damaged flooring at once to avoid compromising your home’s structural integrity– which may only result in the unwanted growth of mold and mildew.
Toilet Drain Pipe
All toilets require a drain pipe that leads to the sewer or septic tank. Let’s say you’re planning to move the toilet in your bathroom during the replacement. It may require rerouting your existing drain pipe for about $717 to $882.
Usually, the old drain pipe is capped with the new one attached to the main sewer or septic tank line.
Extra Labor Costs
If you’re wondering why plumbing estimates tend to have various price ranges– it’s because you will only know about the additional extra costs once you remove the old flooring or walls.
By then, you can determine the problems that need to be addressed. It includes changing the old pipes with new ones to meet building code requirements.
Here’s a brief rundown on the extra costs to expect in a typical toilet replacement project:
- Leaks (Leaky shut-off valve) - The cost to fix leaks will depend on the source and the size of the leakage.
- Broken flange - The flange (or a wax ring seal) refers to the part that mounts your toilet to the flooring and connects it to the drain pipe. Standard features start from $5 to $34, with professional repair costing $230.
- Leaky flush valve - This part allows the water to get into the toilet bowl for flushing. Paying a plumber to fix this valve will cost you $35, with an additional service charge.
What are Some Telling Signs That I Need a New Toilet?
How do you determine if it’s time to replace your toilet? For starters, if you’re dealing with leaks, more frequent repairs, and clogging– consider a replacement as soon as possible.
Decades-old toilets will also need a timely replacement to ensure their efficiency. Let’s discuss the other telling signs in detail.
Toilet’s Age
Newer toilets are much more efficient than older toilets because they can significantly save on the monthly water bill by using less water.
Most new toilets have dual flush features, of which one is used for liquid waste, and the other is for solid waste. It is beneficial in a way that you can select the amount of water you need to flush waste. Considering getting this type of toilet may help you save more in the long run by consuming less water.
Frequent Repairs
If you see yourself frequently calling a plumber to repair the toilet, it’s time for a replacement. These constant repairs can quickly add up and become very costly.
Purchasing a new toilet can help you save a lot from expensive toilet repair.
Cracks in the Tank
One way to know if you have a cracked tank is when there is water on the floor caused by leaks. It may lead to more severe problems such as water damage, mold, and mildew growth. It would help if you immediately replaced the toilet to avoid further damage that may require higher repair costs.
Frequent Clogging
Frequent clogging of toilets can be a sign of a severe issue. Clogged toilets are often experienced in older low-flush toilets because they are less powerful and efficient than newer models.
Should I Hire a Professional For Toilet Replacement?
If you have adequate plumbing knowledge, the luxury of time, and the physical strength to lift the toilet itself– a DIY project is not impossible.
However, we strongly urge you to invest in professional services to get the job done correctly, quickly, and safely.
Homeowners planning to move the toilet placement can benefit from hiring a professional to take on the job, especially with the complex plumbing work involved in the project.
In most cases, you will only know the additional repairs that need to be done after lifting the toilet away from the floors.
It’s best to prepare your budget accordingly and throw in a little extra enough to cover all the repairs.
If your toilet has seen better days, it might be time to consider modernizing your bathroom with a new toilet replacement.
The toilet is one crucial part of any home. When toilets are truly beyond repair, consult a local plumber as soon as possible.