St. Louis, Missouri, Toilet Repair & Replacement. Deciding between a toilet repair and a toilet replacement is not an easy task. You have to weigh up-front versus long-term costs, consider if repairs are even feasible, and be aware of other potential issues in your home's plumbing.
Drain Cleaning STL is here to help. On this page, we've outlined the advantages of repairing versus those of replacing, signs of which one you should go with, and common toilet problems you might be experiencing.
Continue reading to learn more, but if you're experiencing a plumbing emergency, don't hesitate: Call us and we'll send someone out right away to help you out. You can reach us at 314-972-2233 or by filling out our online contact form. We look forward to serving you.
You can jump ahead to a specific section of the page here:
- When To Repair Versus Replace a Toilet
- 5 Common Toilet Problems and Solutions
- St. Louis Toilet Repair/Replacement FAQs
- Contact Drain Cleaning STL
When To Repair Versus Replace a Toilet
Unless you are experienced with bathroom and toilet repairs, it can be hard to tell when you should repair versus replace. Here are some criteria you can use when making the decision:
Toilet Repair Benefits in St. Louis, Missouri
- Faster Process: When you opt for a repair over a full toilet replacement, your St. Louis plumbing contractor will generally be able to complete the job more quickly.
- Less Intrusive: Repairs are more contained than replacements – rather than hauling a whole new unit into your home and arranging your schedule around it, a plumber can usually handle things just in your bathroom.
- Lower Up-Front Cost: Getting a toilet replacement isn't cheap, and opting for a repair can normally save you some money in the short term.
Toilet Repair Drawbacks in St. Louis, Missouri
- Miss Out On Replacement Benefits: We'll discuss replacement benefits below, but if you opt for a toilet repair over a replacement, you'll miss out on improved efficiency, an updated warranty, and more.
- Not Always An Option: In some cases, a toilet repair is not practical. For extreme damage like a crack in the water tank, replacement may be your only option.
Overall, repairs are best for smaller issues, and when you're comfortable without a brand new toilet. When you don't have the budget or flexibility for a replacement, opt for a toilet repair.
Toilet Replacement Benefits in St. Louis, Missouri
- Better Efficiency: Modern toilets don't require as much water to flush as older toilets. This saves you on utilities while keeping a powerful, effective flush.
- Updated Design: A toilet replacement is a chance for you to get something more comfortable. You will also have the chance to pick a new style with an updated aesthetic.
- Updated Warranty: Most toilets come with a warranty, though these can expire after a certain period of time. A new toilet will likely come with a new warranty.
- Defeat Major Problems: In some cases, a toilet replacement is outright necessary when problems are too much for repairs to handle.
Toilet Replacement Drawbacks in St. Louis, Missouri
- Higher Up-Front Cost: A new toilet is an investment. The total cost for an installation can be hundreds of dollars, including materials and labor.
- Larger Project: While the end result can be excellent, it can take more work to get there. Be prepared for a longer project with more life adjustments.
To summarize, a toilet replacement makes the most sense when you are facing larger plumbing problems with your unit. It is also a good choice when you are looking to upgrade to a more modern toilet and are comfortable with the extra cost.
When you work with Drain Cleaning STL, we will give you a fair and honest evaluation of your home's toilet. If you need a toilet replacement, toilet repair, or something else entirely, we will enable you to make that decision and guide you through it.
5 Common Toilet Problems in St. Louis, Missouri, and Their Causes
With the amount of use that toilets get, it's inevitable that some problems will come up on occasion. Toilet repair & replacement typically starts with identifying what's going on and coming up with a plan to address the root cause. Here are some common toilet problems and potential causes behind them:
Problem 1: Slow-Filling Toilet Bowl
Solution: The good news is that it's rare for a slow-filling toilet bowl to need extensive repairs or replacement. Most of the time, this is an issue with the water supply or the water tank. The key things to check are:
- That the water supply valve behind the toilet is completely open, and
- That the fill valve and tube in the toilet's water tank are not obstructed.
These are normally quick to fix, but if they don't work, it's possible that the problem is deeper in your home's pipes.
Problem 2: Constant Running Water
Solution: Constantly running toilets are the flip side of slow-filling toilets, but they can have similar causes. The main thing you'll want to watch out for is debris holding open a valve in the toilet's water tank, which can be cleaned out to allow it to shut. If that doesn't work, the toilet tank components might need to be repaired or replaced.
Problem 3: Toilet Drain Frequently Clogs
Solution: When your toilet clog is an isolated incident, you can typically get away with using a plunger and possibly cleaning the toilet's drain. But when the clogs are frequent, you might actually have an issue with your sewer line instead. In this case, a drain camera inspection might be needed to identify the root cause of the problem and come up with a solution.
Problem 4: Toilet Backs Up Water Without a Clog
Solution: If the toilet is backing up water, but isn't clogged itself, there's probably another clogged drain further down your home's sewer line. Similar to frequent clogs, an inspection can help identify the actual problem. In extreme cases, you might even need to have your sewer line cleaned for a long-term fix.
Problem 5: Leaks
Solution: Depending on where the leak is and how much water is coming out, a toilet repair or replacement may be necessary. If you're lucky, the leak will just be a sign of a loose part, and you can tighten the valve or fitting to stop it. Leaks around the base can often be solved with new sealant, but leaks coming from cracks (anywhere) are unfortunately a sign that a replacement is needed.
St. Louis Toilet Repair/Replacement FAQs
Below, we've answered some of the most common questions we hear about toilet replacement and repairs in St. Louis, Missouri:
What is the average lifespan of a toilet?
Most toilets can last around 20-25 years, but it's not uncommon to replace the toilet earlier. This is due to technological advancements that improve efficiency in modern units.
How can I tell if I need to replace my toilet?
Cracks, repeated clogs, and inefficiency are all signs that it's time for a toilet replacement. Smaller or isolated issues can normally be handled through toilet repairs.
Where are the most common places that toilets leak?
Toilets commonly leak at the base, the water supply line, and from the water tank. Base leaks are usually caused by broken sealant. Water supply line leaks are usually caused by loose valves. And water tank leaks can either come from malfunctioning internals or cracks in the wall.
Are toilet repairs better than toilet replacements?
Repairs and replacements each have their place. Repairs are best for newer toilets with fewer, more isolated problems. Replacements are best for older, inefficient, and/or heavily damaged toilets.
Should I replace all my bathroom appliances at once?
If you're replacing your toilet, you might be thinking about a full bathroom remodel, switching out your bathtub and sink at the same time. While each scenario is unique, a full remodel can keep your bathroom looking cohesive.
If you have another toilet question and need help, call us at 314-972-2233, and we'll do our best to give you an answer.
Got a Toilet Problem in St. Louis, Missouri? Call Drain Cleaning STL.
Drain Cleaning STL has been offering toilet repair and replacement services to the St. Louis, Missouri, area since 2011. We specialize in plumbing emergencies, and will get out to your house as soon as we can after you call.
Whether you need a toilet repair, toilet replacement, or you're not sure and are just looking for guidance, we take pride in providing top-notch, friendly service throughout the St. Louis region. Call us at 314-972-2233 or get in touch online to get started.