Clarkson Valley, MO, Toilet Repair & Replacement. Toilet repair versus toilet replacement is never an easy decision. You have to weigh up-front versus long-term costs, consider if repairs are even feasible, and look out for other possible problems in your pipes and drains.

Drain Cleaning STL is ready to assist you. Below, we go over the reasons you might decide to replace versus repair, factors to consider when deciding between the two, and everyday toilet dilemmas you might be experiencing.

Continue on for more information, but if you think you're in a plumbing emergency, don't delay: Call our team now and we'll be out ASAP to diagnose and fix the problem. You can reach us at 314-972-2233 or by filling out our online contact form. We look forward to serving you.

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When To Repair Versus Replace a Toilet

If you're not well versed in bathroom and toilet repairs, it's not always obvious when the right choice is to repair versus replace. To help you make that decision, here are the pros and cons of each:

Toilet Repair Benefits in Clarkson Valley, MO

  • Faster Process: When you decide to go with a repair in place of a total toilet replacement, your Clarkson Valley plumbing contractor will generally be able to perform the service more quickly.
  • Smaller Project: Repairs are normally easier to perform than replacements – rather than ordering, loading, transporting, and installing the new toilet and arranging your schedule around it, it's normal for repairs just to take place in your bathroom.
  • Lesser Up-Front Cost: Buying a toilet replacement can be expensive, and going with a repair will often save you some money in the immediate term.

Toilet Repair Drawbacks in Clarkson Valley, MO

  • Miss Out On Replacement Advantages: We'll discuss replacement benefits in the next section, but when you opt for a toilet repair in place of a replacement, you won't have increased efficiency, a new warranty, and more.
  • Not Always An Option: depending on what's wrong, a toilet repair may not be practical. In cases of drastic damage such as a cracked bowl, replacement is often your only real choice.

Overall, repairs are best for more isolated issues, and when you're fine with passing on the benefits of a brand new toilet. When it's impractical for you to handle a replacement, ask about a toilet repair.

Toilet Replacement Benefits in Clarkson Valley, MO

  • Increased Efficiency: Today's toilets use less water per flush than outdated toilets. This saves you on water bills without compromising flush quality.
  • Updated Design: A toilet replacement is an opportunity for something more comfortable. You will also have the chance to pick a new style that matches your decor.
  • Updated Warranty: Toilets generally come with a warranty, though some warranties only last for a set number of years. A new toilet will likely come with a new warranty.
  • Resolve Major Problems: Sometimes, a toilet replacement is outright necessary when repairs aren't enough to get the job done.

Toilet Replacement Drawbacks in Clarkson Valley, MO

  • Higher Up-Front Cost: A new toilet is an investment. When you add it all up, the new unit, transport, and installation fees included, it can easily be hundreds of dollars.
  • Larger Project: Even though it's typically worth it in the end, it will require some coordination. Be prepared for a larger-scale project for which you'll need to make accommodations.

To summarize, a toilet replacement is best when your current toilet has a massive problem that would be impractical to repair. It also makes sense when your current toilet is outdated and you're looking for an upgrade.


When you hire Drain Cleaning STL, we'll bring an expert eye to your current toilet when we make recommendations. If you need a toilet replacement, toilet repair, or any other plumbing assistance, we will enable you to make that decision and guide you through it.


Toilet Replacement and Repair in Clarkson Valley | Drain Cleaning STL Toilet Plumbing

5 Common Toilet Problems in Clarkson Valley, MO, and Their Causes

As with any appliance, toilets will run into problems as a part of regular use. And most of the time it's nothing major. Toilet repair and replacement usually begins with diagnosing the problem and creating a plan to address the root cause. Here are some typical toilet issues and what reasons might be 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. Often, this is an issue with the water supply or the water tank. You'll want to be sure that:

  1. That the water supply line behind the toilet is completely open, and
  2. 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, you might have a plumbing issue somewhere else in your home's water supply.

Problem 2: Constant Running Water

Solution: Constantly running toilets are the flip side of slow-filling toilets, but they can have similar causes. It's typical for this to be caused by debris holding open a valve in the toilet's water tank, and clearing it away will restore full functionality. If the problem remains after that, 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, it can probably be resolved using a plunger and possibly cleaning the toilet's drain. But the main thing to watch out for is repeated clogs: It this case, you might actually have an issue with your sewer line instead. If this is the case, a drain camera inspection could be needed to identify the root cause of the problem and figure out a way to fix it.

Problem 4: Toilet Backs Up Water Without a Clog

Solution: If the toilet is backing up water, but isn't clogged itself, you're probably seeing the results of another clogged drain deeper in your home's plumbing. Just like with frequent clogs, a drain camera might be needed to find the leak or blockage. If it's serious, you might even need to have your sewer line cleaned for a long-term fix.

Problem 5: Leaks

Solution: Some leaks can be handled via repair, while others require a full toilet replacement – this is mostly a matter of the placement and size of the leak. In some cases, the leak will just be a sign of a loose part, and fixing it is as easy as tightening a screw. Other common leaks include those around the toilet's base, which can be resealed, but leaks coming from cracks (anywhere) are unfortunately a sign that your toilet needs to be replaced.


Toilet Replacement and Repair in Clarkson Valley | Drain Cleaning STL Toilet Plumbing

Clarkson Valley Toilet Repair/Replacement FAQs

In this section, you can read answers to some of the frequently asked questions we hear related to toilet replacement and repairs in Clarkson Valley, MO:

What is the average lifespan of a toilet?

Your typical toilet will have a lifespan of approximately 20-25 years, but it's common for people to replace it sooner than that. This is usually motivated by technological advancements that improve efficiency in modern units.

How can I tell if I need to replace my toilet?

The main things to watch out for are cracks, persistent clogs, and rising water bills. Smaller problems can normally be handled through toilet repairs.

Where are the most common places that toilets leak?

There are three areas where toilets typically get leaks: The base, the water supply line, and the rear water tank. If you see a leak in the base, check for broken or worn-away sealant. If something is wrong with the valve or there's a loose fitting in the water supply line, that will cause a leak. Water tank leaks are usually the result of either broken internals (normally easy to repair) or a crack in the wall of the tank (a sign that you need a toilet replacement).

Are toilet repairs better than toilet replacements?

Repairs and replacements each have their place. If you have a modern toilet with a small, non-recurring issue, normally a repair is appropriate. A toilet replacement works best when you have an older model you're looking to upgrade from, or when the damage is so severe that you can't practically repair it.

Should I replace all my bathroom appliances at once?

If you're already replacing your toilet, it could be worth considering a a full bathroom remodel, and replacing your bathtub and sink at the same time. While each bathroom's needs are unique, a full remodel can provide both aesthetic and functional improvements.


If you have something going on with your toilet that we didn't cover here 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 Clarkson Valley, MO? Call Drain Cleaning STL.

Drain Cleaning STL is prepared for your toilet replacement or repair in Clarkson Valley, MO. We specialize in plumbing emergencies will get out to your house as soon as we can.

Whether you're looking for 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 Clarkson Valley region. Talk to one of our team members at 314-972-2233 or send us a note online to get started.

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