Moving Toilet To Other Side Of Bathroom

Planning and Preparation

Moving your toilet to a different location in your bathroom can be a significant undertaking. It involves plumbing modifications, potentially requiring the expertise of a licensed plumber. Before embarking on this project, thorough planning and preparation are crucial to ensure a successful outcome.

Identifying the New Location and Assessing Obstacles

The first step is to determine the ideal new location for your toilet. Consider factors such as proximity to existing plumbing lines, access to electrical outlets, and the overall layout of the bathroom. Once you have chosen the new location, carefully measure the distance between the current and desired toilet positions. This measurement will help you estimate the length of new plumbing lines needed. Additionally, assess any obstacles that might hinder the project, such as walls, cabinets, or structural beams. These obstacles may need to be relocated or removed, which could significantly impact the project’s complexity and cost.

Determining Plumbing System Type and Feasibility of Rerouting

Before moving your toilet, it is essential to understand the type of plumbing system in your bathroom. Common plumbing materials include cast iron, PVC, and copper. Each material has its unique characteristics and requires specific techniques for rerouting. For example, cast iron pipes are heavier and more challenging to work with than PVC pipes.

• Cast Iron: This material is durable but prone to corrosion. Rerouting cast iron pipes often involves cutting and connecting sections, requiring specialized tools and expertise.
• PVC: PVC is a lightweight and versatile material that is relatively easy to work with. Rerouting PVC pipes typically involves cutting and joining sections using solvent cement.
• Copper: Copper pipes are known for their durability and resistance to corrosion. Rerouting copper pipes usually involves soldering or brazing, requiring specialized skills and equipment.

Assess the feasibility of rerouting the drain and water supply lines to the new location. Factors to consider include the existing pipe layout, the availability of access points, and the potential for interference with other fixtures or structural components.

Access Points and Structural Considerations, Moving toilet to other side of bathroom

Consider the availability of access points for the new toilet location. These points might include wall cavities or floor joists that provide space for running new plumbing lines. If access points are limited, you may need to consider more complex routing options, potentially involving cutting into walls or floors. Additionally, ensure that the new toilet location is structurally sound. Avoid placing the toilet directly over a floor joist, as this could compromise the floor’s integrity.

Estimating Project Costs

Accurately estimating the cost of materials and labor is crucial for budgeting purposes.

• Materials: Consider the cost of new pipes, fittings, valves, toilet flange, toilet bowl, and any other necessary supplies. The cost of materials will vary depending on the type of plumbing system, the length of the new lines, and the quality of the chosen materials.
• Labor: The cost of labor will depend on the complexity of the project, the time required, and the plumber’s hourly rate. If you are comfortable with plumbing work, you may be able to save money by performing some tasks yourself. However, it is recommended to consult with a licensed plumber for any complex or potentially dangerous tasks.

For a more accurate cost estimate, consult with several plumbers and gather quotes based on your specific project requirements.

Moving the Toilet

Now that you’ve planned and prepared for your toilet relocation, it’s time to tackle the actual moving process. This step involves disconnecting the toilet from its utilities and carefully transporting it to its new position.

Disconnecting the Toilet

Before you can move the toilet, you need to disconnect it from its water supply and the drain pipe. This process ensures that you’re not dealing with water spills or leaks during the move. Here’s how to do it:

• Turn off the water supply. Locate the water supply valve for the toilet, typically found on the wall behind the toilet. Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the water flow.
• Flush the toilet. Flush the toilet to empty the tank and bowl, ensuring there’s no water left inside. This will make the toilet lighter and easier to handle.
• Disconnect the water supply line. Use a wrench or pliers to loosen and remove the water supply line from the toilet. You may need to use a pipe wrench for a stubborn connection.
• Disconnect the toilet from the drain pipe. Carefully detach the toilet from the drain pipe. You’ll likely need to use a utility knife or a saw to cut the old wax ring if it’s stuck. Be sure to wear gloves and eye protection during this step.

Moving the Toilet

Once the toilet is disconnected, you can carefully lift and move it to its new location. Remember to lift with your legs, not your back, to avoid injuries.

• Get help. It’s always a good idea to have a helper for this task, as toilets can be heavy and awkward to handle.
• Use a dolly. If you’re moving the toilet a significant distance, a dolly can make the process much easier. Secure the toilet to the dolly using straps or ropes.
• Clear the path. Make sure the path between the old and new locations is clear of any obstacles.

Rerouting Plumbing: Moving Toilet To Other Side Of Bathroom

Once you’ve successfully moved the toilet, the next step is to reroute the plumbing to accommodate the new location. This involves connecting the new toilet to the existing drain line and water supply. This process requires precision and care to ensure a leak-free and functional plumbing system.

Connecting to the Drain Line

Rerouting the drain line involves cutting and reconnecting the existing pipe to the new toilet location. This process is crucial for proper waste disposal and prevents any potential leaks or blockages.

• Cutting the Existing Drain Pipe: Carefully cut the existing drain pipe using a pipe cutter or hacksaw, ensuring a clean and straight cut. The cut should be made at a point that allows for the new pipe sections to be connected easily.
• Installing New Drain Pipe Sections: Connect the new drain pipe sections using appropriate fittings, such as PVC or ABS pipe, depending on your existing plumbing system. Ensure a tight and secure connection by using pipe glue or solvent cement, as appropriate.
• Installing a New Toilet Flange: The toilet flange connects the toilet to the drain line. Install a new toilet flange, ensuring it’s properly aligned and securely fastened to the floor. The flange should be level and flush with the floor to ensure a proper seal and prevent leaks.

Connecting the Water Supply Line

The water supply line provides the water for the toilet. Rerouting the water supply line to the new location involves extending or rerouting the existing line to reach the new toilet.

• Extending or Rerouting the Existing Water Supply Line: Depending on the distance and location of the new toilet, you may need to extend the existing water supply line or reroute it entirely. If extending the line, use appropriate fittings and copper or PEX pipe to connect the new sections to the existing line. If rerouting the line, you may need to run a new line from the main water supply to the new toilet location.
• Installing New Water Supply Line Sections: Connect the new water supply line sections using appropriate fittings and copper or PEX pipe. Ensure a tight and secure connection using compression fittings or soldering, depending on the type of pipe used.
• Installing a New Shut-Off Valve: A shut-off valve is essential for controlling the water flow to the toilet. Install a new shut-off valve near the toilet to allow for easy access and control. The valve should be installed at a point that allows for easy access and control, and it should be compatible with the type of pipe used for the water supply line.

Testing the New Plumbing Connections

After completing the rerouting of the plumbing, it is crucial to test the new connections for leaks. This step ensures that the plumbing is properly installed and functioning correctly.

• Test for Leaks: Turn on the water supply to the toilet and check for any leaks at the connections. Look for signs of water dripping or seeping from the fittings or pipes. If you notice any leaks, immediately turn off the water supply and tighten the connections or repair any damaged pipes or fittings.
• Flush the Toilet: Flush the toilet several times to check for leaks in the drain line and the toilet bowl. Observe the toilet for any signs of water leaking or dripping from the bowl or the drain line.