What You’ll Need:
- Tape Measure
- Paper and Pen
Step 1: Measure the Rough-In
The rough-in is the distance between the center of the toilet flange and the finished wall. To measure it, follow these steps:
- Locate the center of the flange – the pipe that connects the toilet to the drain.
- Measure from the wall to the center of the flange – this is your rough-in measurement.
Step 2: Measure the Bowl Length
Next, you’ll want to measure the bowl length, which is the distance from the back of the tank to the front of the bowl. Here’s how:
- Place the tape measure at the center of the flange.
- Extend the tape measure towards the front of the bowl until you reach the outer edge – this is your bowl length measurement.
Step 3: Measure the Tank Width
The tank width is the measurement of the widest part of the toilet tank. To measure it, follow these steps:
- Position the tape measure at the top edge of the tank.
- Stretch the tape measure across the tank to the opposite edge – this is your tank width measurement.
Step 4: Measure the Seat Bolt Spread
The seat bolt spread is the distance between the center of the two seat bolt holes on the toilet bowl. Here’s how to measure it:
- Find the two seat bolt holes at the back of the bowl.
- Measure the distance between the center of each hole – this is your seat bolt spread measurement.
Step 5: Document Your Measurements
Once you have gathered all the measurements, it’s important to document them for reference. Write down the rough-in, bowl length, tank width, and seat bolt spread measurements on a piece of paper.
Final Thoughts
Measuring a toilet accurately is crucial for a successful installation or replacement. By following this step-by-step guide, you can confidently measure your toilet and make informed decisions when purchasing a new one. Remember, measurements may vary slightly, so it’s always a good idea to double-check before making a final purchase. Happy measuring!