Replacing a toilet seat is the easiest and quickest job ever. In fact the replacement will give a new look to your bathroom and you don’t even need to turn off the water supply while replacing the toilet seat. Here is how you do it. Keep reading.
Whatever the reason be, whether your toilet seats are damaged, cracked, or you just want to freshen up the look of your bathroom, replacing or reinstalling a toilet seat is the easiest and quickest job ever. It is not really difficult to change the toilet seat since these seats come in two sizes and shapes. By just looking at your toilet seat you can gauge what size or shape it is, and buy a new one accordingly. You can also call a mechanic to do the same, but trust me it is really simple and you can do it on your own. Plus you can save a few dollars and be proud of yourself for accomplishing the task.
Instructions to Replace a Toilet Seat: Step-by-Step
Step #1
Like I mentioned earlier, toilet seats usually come in 2 sizes and shapes; round (16.5 inches) and oblong (18.5 inches). Of course there many others or you can get one customized as per your design as well. In case you do understand the shape, just measure the old toilet seat from the front of the bowl to the back of the bowl area.
Step #2
It is also important you measure the bolts and nuts attached to the toilet base. Although you can use the same ones, but in case they are damaged or rusted, you would have to go in for new ones. Usually it is recommended that you use new ones if you are replacing the toilet seat.
Step #3
Now, you will need some equipment while you proceed with this task. An adjustable spanner, screwdriver, new nuts and washer and a brand new toilet seat. You will find this at any hardware or plumbing supply stores. You will be surprised to see the variety in styles and colors of the toilet seats available. Choose the one that matches your bathroom decor, the best!
Step #4
It is time get on to some real work. Close the lid of your existing toilet seat. Unscrew the bolts that are placed at the back of the seat. Before you do so, find two bolts held in place by the nuts behind, underneath the lid of the toilet seat. Use a spanner to loosen nuts and then, unscrew the bolts.
Step #5
Once you are done with removing the nuts and bolts, just pull and lift the toilet seat straight up and off the bowl. It will easily come out. However, sometimes the bolts are stubborn and rigid, in that case just spray a little lubricant to facilitate unscrewing the bolts. In case the bolts are rusted, they will leave a brown colored stain behind. Clean the holes of the toilet base and dry it thoroughly.
Step #6
Place the new toilet seat on the toilet bowl by aligning the holes of the new toilet seat with the holes of the toilet base. Push the new bolts through the holes of the toilet base and thread the nuts onto the bolts from underneath. Now, make sure you do a good job here, tighten the nuts properly so that the toilet seat is not shaky or loose. Do not over tighten the nuts as they are likely to develop cracks then.
Step #7
Snap open the cover of the toilet seat and finally your new toilet seat has been installed. In case you find it difficult to open the cover, use the spanner to loosen the bolts and try again. It should facilitate easy opening and closing of the seat installed. Now, pat your back for having accomplished the task successfully!
Follow these instructions carefully, you need not call a professional or a plumber to help you replace the toilet seat. It requires no plumbing expertise; you can do it all by yourself, having the right comfort and style in your bathroom.