Installing a new toilet may seem like a routine part of any home construction, but it’s one of those tasks where small missteps can lead to long-term problems. Pace Plumbing has worked with builders and homeowners throughout Spokane and knows how easily a straightforward project like a toilet installation in Spokane can go sideways without proper planning and precision.
We’re sharing the most common toilet installation mistakes we’ve encountered to help you avoid costly repairs, leaks, and performance issues in your new home.
Choosing the Wrong Toilet for the Space
One of the first decisions in any toilet installation in Spokane is selecting the right model. It’s not just about aesthetics or price. Toilets vary in size, flushing technology, and bowl height. Choosing one that doesn’t fit the rough-in dimensions or the room’s layout can lead to rework or clearance problems.
We recommend confirming the rough-in size before buying a toilet and considering the daily needs of your household. For example, comfort height models may suit taller users or those with mobility concerns. Dual-flush systems can improve water efficiency in the long run, but only if they are compatible with the household’s plumbing.
Failing to Inspect the Flange
The toilet flange connects your new toilet to the drainpipe and anchors it securely to the floor. If it’s not level, cracked, or installed too high or low, the entire system is compromised.
Some builders or contractors rush this step, assuming a flange that looks fine must be fine. We always inspect the flange closely, making sure it’s flush with the finished floor and structurally sound. Replacing or adjusting a flange before setting the toilet is far easier than fixing leaks or unstable installations later.
Skipping the Wax Ring Check
That wax ring at the base of your toilet might seem like a minor detail, but it’s what keeps sewer gases out and prevents leaks around the base. A poorly seated or reused wax ring will almost always result in water damage down the road.
Pace Plumbing always installs a new wax ring and ensures even compression when placing the toilet. We’ve seen new construction homes where plumbers reused old rings during rushed timelines, only for the homeowners to call in months later with flooring issues.
Improper Leveling and Anchoring
A wobbly toilet isn’t just annoying. It puts stress on the flange and drain seal, which can lead to slow leaks under the surface. We’ve corrected installations where the bolts weren’t evenly tightened or where shims were used improperly.
Toilet bowls must sit level on the floor without rocking. We always check the base, use the correct anchors, and make sure everything is flush and stable before sealing the toilet down.
Over-Tightening Bolts
It might seem like a tight seal is a good seal, but overtightening the bolts during installation can crack the porcelain or damage the flange. That leads to either a leaking toilet or one that needs a full replacement.
We’ve trained our team to torque the bolts with care, ensuring a secure fit without putting unnecessary stress on any part of the toilet. It’s a balance that experienced plumbers know well, and one reason many homeowners turn to local plumber companies instead of DIY attempts.
Overlooking Ventilation and Drainage
Toilets rely on more than just a water supply and gravity. Proper drainage and venting ensure smooth flushing and prevent sewer gas buildup. Poor vent placement or improper slope in the drain line can cause slow flushes, gurgling, or unpleasant odors.
A “new construction plumber near me” should always factor in venting and slope before installing a toilet, especially in multi-bathroom homes where load and flow need to be balanced.
Ignoring Manufacturer Specs
Each toilet comes with its own installation specifications. Ignoring those can cause a good toilet to perform poorly. Spacing requirements, water supply pressure, and installation height all matter.
We always check the manual, even with familiar brands, to make sure we meet the exact requirements for a clean and efficient install. It’s not just about getting the job done, but getting it done right the first time.
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Let’s Make Sure It’s Done Right
If you’re building a new home in Spokane, don’t leave something as essential as your toilet installation to chance. We coordinate with builders and homeowners to make sure each fixture is installed with care, sealed securely, and thoroughly tested. No shortcuts, no unnecessary guesswork—just dependable results from experienced plumbers who understand what Spokane homes require.
We’re here to help you avoid early maintenance calls and enjoy a home that works as well as it looks. Contact us to schedule your new home installation or request a consultation.
Avoid delays, leaks, and future headaches by entrusting your next toilet installation in Spokane to the team that gets it right the first time.
