Upgrading your toilet? The first and most important step is getting the right measurements to ensure a perfect fit. Whether you’re replacing an old model or remodeling your bathroom, this guide by The Trade Table will walk you through everything you need to measure before bringing home a new toilet.
What You’ll Need
✔ Tape measure
✔ Pencil & paper
✔ Flashlight (optional, for hard-to-see areas)
Step 1: Measure the Toilet Rough-In
The rough-in is the distance from the wall to the center of the toilet’s drainpipe (measured at the bolts on the toilet base).
Standard rough-in: 12 inches (common in modern homes)
Small rough-in: 10 inches (often found in older homes)
Large rough-in: 14 inches (less common, but still available)
How to Measure:
1️⃣ Place your tape measure against the finished wall behind the toilet.
2️⃣ Measure to the center of the toilet bolts at the base.
3️⃣ If your toilet has four bolts, measure to the rear set.
Tip: Do NOT measure from baseboards—only measure from the finished wall!
Step 2: Check the Toilet Height
Toilet height is measured from the floor to the top of the seat.
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Standard Height: 14–15 inches (best for shorter individuals)
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Chair/Comfort Height: 17 inches or more (easier to sit and stand, ADA-compliant)
Tip: If you need a toilet for seniors or individuals with mobility issues, look for ADA-compliant models (15–17 inches high).
Step 3: Measure the Toilet Bowl Shape
Toilets come in two primary bowl shapes:
Elongated Bowl:
- Extends up to 31 inches from the wall
- More comfortable but requires extra space
Round Bowl:
- Extends up to 28 inches from the wall
- Compact design, great for small bathrooms
Tip: If space is limited, a round toilet is your best choice!
Step 4: Check Clearance & Space Requirements
Side Clearance: At least 15 inches from walls or other fixtures (sink, tub, etc.)
Front Clearance: 30 inches recommended for comfortable use
Final Check: Supply Line Placement
Before buying a new toilet, check your water supply line location:
✅ Vertical Supply Line Height: 8 1/4 inches
✅ Horizontal Placement: 6 inches from toilet center
Ready to Upgrade?
Now that you know how to measure for a toilet replacement, you’re ready to find the perfect fit! The Trade Table offers a wide selection of high-quality toilets—shop today for the best styles and features.
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