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Bedroom Build-Out, Pt. 3: Install a Toilet and Vanity A single bedroom becomes two, and a closet becomes a bath in this equity-building makeover. Check out more value-enhancing projects from Sweat Equity. From "Sweat Equity" episode DSEQ-207

The newly added bath is well undreway with new vanity and toilet installed.

Toilets are easier to replace than you might think and a new high-efficiency toilet can save you almost $100 a year in utilities. Lisa chooses a toilet and stylish vanity for the new bathroom.

Materials:

counter top
sink
faucet and fixtures
toilet
toilet seat
wax ring
adjustable wrench
hole saw
vanity
measuring tape

Safety Alerts: In between toilet installations, stuff a rag into the sewer drain to prevent sewer gasses from getting into the house.

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D
	Figure E

Installing a Toilet and Vanity

Tip: Before installing a toilet or a vanity, turn off your water supply at the shutoff valve or the house shutoff valve.

• Set the rubber tank cushion onto your toilet bowl set your tank onto that, tightening the bolts only until snug to prevent the porcelain from cracking (figure A).

• Remove your sewer rag and place your wax ring over your sewer pipe (figure B).

• Set the toilet onto the wax ring, using the hold-down bolts as a guide. Rock the toilet gently into place.

• Tip: Set drinking straws over the hold-down bolts can help you guide the toilet to the right place.

• Use a level and shims to level up the toilet then bolt the toilet down. Don't over tighten as this can cause the porcelain to crack.

• Snap the bolts short and fill the caps with plumber's putty. Set the caps over the bolts (figure C).

• Measure your pipes for your vanity from the floor and wall (figure D).

• Transfer your measurements to the back of your vanity; keeping in mind the measurements from the wall will include your countertop overhang (figure E).

• Use a hole saw to openings for the pipes, begin your cut from the back and then move to the front to avoid splitting your wood.

• Move your cabinet over your pipes, make any adjustments and check level. Secure your cabinet to the wall by sinking screws into the wall studs.

• Finish your bath with a toilet seat, countertop, sink and faucets. Turn on your shutoff valve, test your plumbing and check for any leaks.