Replace a toilet
If you’re choosing a toilet, you’ll find two types: a one-piece toilet with a streamline look and a seamless design that makes it easy to clean, and a standard two-piece unit with a water tank that hangs on the wall and rests on the base of the toilet. The latter are usually less expensive than one-piece units and can be more difficult to install.
Shape-wise, you’ll find some toilets designed for comfort with elongated shapes and elevated heights. For example, a toilet with a 17-inch-high rim is more comfortable for an adult than the standard 15-inch height. The higher rim, often called the "right height," is particularly convenient for anyone who is physically challenged. Other things to consider are how quietly the toilet flushes and if it conserves water.
If you’re remodeling the bathroom, take note of the size and shape of the base of the old and new toilets. Choose a new toilet with the same configuration as the old one. That’s not an issue if you also plan to replace the flooring material; but you don’t want to leave a large hole in the floor from the existing toilet and replace it with a smaller base that reveals the hole.
To remove an old toilet and replace it with a good quality two-piece unit, a plumber will charge $546, which includes labor and material. If you're adventurous and want to improve your plumbing skills, you can buy a new toilet and a wax ring, make the swap for $270, and save 51% for your effort. That’s assuming there are no surprises and the new unit replaces the old one without requiring any adjustments to the plumbing pipes, wall or floor. If the replacement isn’t a direct swap and you have reservations about doing it, hire a plumber and be assured the job is done right the first time.
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Pro Cost — DIY Cost — Pro time — DIY Time — DIY Savings — Percent Saved
$546 — $270 — 2.8 — 3.8 — $276 — 51%
©2026 Gene and Katie Hamilton. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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