What to Look for in Shopping for a new toilet
Sooner or later, us homeowners eventually have to replace the ol' commode. They can usually last anywhere from a few years to up to 20 years or more. Here's a few handy hints to look for when buying a new toilet for your home.
Do your research before you buy
Check manufacturers websites, product reviews and display models at your local home improvement stores like Lowes, The Home Depot, Menards, etc. Most online and in-store retailers will have a laundry list of unique features for each model, as well as their price ranges. Don't just pick up the first random toilet that you see in the store. This is an appliance that's intended to last for a long time.
Don't just buy the cheapest model that's available
Although price is a major consideration when buying a new toilet, the cheapest models aren't always of the greatest quality. Cheaper toilets can be more expensive than other models in the long run in terms of repair and replacement costs. Do your homework, and you may just find rebates available on high-efficient toilet models.
Check the size of the toilet you need before you buy.
One thing you'll need to know is how big of a toilet you'll need to buy. Measure the rough-in distance of your existing toilet, which is the distance from the wall to the flange bolts which hold down your toilet. Most rough in distances are between 10 to 14 inches. Unless you're expanding your bathroom or doing a bathroom remodel, your next toilet should probably be about the same size as your current one.
Non-standard toilets may look cool, but good luck finding replacement parts!
Non-standard toilets may seem stylish and sophisticated, but they can be expensive. Finding replacement parts when something breaks can be pricey and sometimes difficult to find. Unless you're a professional, you're probably better off sticking with a standard model with a good flush. You might even consider a dual flush toilet to save water.
Do your research before you buy
Check manufacturers websites, product reviews and display models at your local home improvement stores like Lowes, The Home Depot, Menards, etc. Most online and in-store retailers will have a laundry list of unique features for each model, as well as their price ranges. Don't just pick up the first random toilet that you see in the store. This is an appliance that's intended to last for a long time.
Don't just buy the cheapest model that's available
Although price is a major consideration when buying a new toilet, the cheapest models aren't always of the greatest quality. Cheaper toilets can be more expensive than other models in the long run in terms of repair and replacement costs. Do your homework, and you may just find rebates available on high-efficient toilet models.
Check the size of the toilet you need before you buy.
One thing you'll need to know is how big of a toilet you'll need to buy. Measure the rough-in distance of your existing toilet, which is the distance from the wall to the flange bolts which hold down your toilet. Most rough in distances are between 10 to 14 inches. Unless you're expanding your bathroom or doing a bathroom remodel, your next toilet should probably be about the same size as your current one.
Non-standard toilets may look cool, but good luck finding replacement parts!
Non-standard toilets may seem stylish and sophisticated, but they can be expensive. Finding replacement parts when something breaks can be pricey and sometimes difficult to find. Unless you're a professional, you're probably better off sticking with a standard model with a good flush. You might even consider a dual flush toilet to save water.
