Kirkwood, MO, Toilet Repair & Replacement. Deciding between a toilet repair and a toilet replacement is not an easy task. You have to take finances into account, figure out if your current toilet can keep functioning, and perform inspections for other potential problems in your plumbing.

Drain Cleaning STL is here to help. In this article, we've outlined the advantages of repairing versus those of replacing, signs of which one you should go with, and frequent toilet dilemmas and what to do about them.

Keep going for more information, but if your house has a plumbing emergency, don't delay: Call us now and we'll send a technician out as soon as possible to get things under control. You can speak with us at 314-972-2233 or schedule service online. When you need plumbing help, call Drain Cleaning STL.

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When To Repair Versus Replace a Toilet

If you don't have much experience with bathroom and toilet repairs, it's not always obvious if the right choice is to repair or replace. To help you make that decision, here are the pros and cons of each:

Toilet Repair Benefits in Kirkwood, MO

  • Quicker Project: When you decide to go with a repair instead of a total toilet replacement, your Kirkwood plumber will typically be able to take care of it more quickly.
  • Minimal Life Interruptions: Repairs don't require as much planning as replacements – rather than hauling a whole new unit into your home and taking a whole day to get it done, a plumber can usually handle things just in your bathroom.
  • Lower Up-Front Cost: Buying a toilet replacement isn't cheap, and opting for a repair can normally save you some money in the immediate term.

Toilet Repair Drawbacks in Kirkwood, MO

  • Miss Out On Replacement Benefits: We'll discuss replacement benefits next, but if you decide on a toilet repair over a replacement, you'll miss out on increased efficiency, an updated warranty, and more.
  • Situationally Not An Option: Depending on the damage, a toilet repair isn't always practical. In cases of drastic damage such as a crack in the water tank, replacement is probably your only option.

In summary, repairs work well with more isolated problems, and when you're not in need of a brand new toilet. When it's impractical for you to handle a replacement, opt for a toilet repair.

Toilet Replacement Benefits in Kirkwood, MO

  • Better Efficiency: Updated toilets don't require as much water to flush as older toilets. Upgrading can save you on utilities while keeping a powerful, effective flush.
  • Modern Design: A toilet replacement is an opportunity for a cozier seat. If you want to change the look, you can also look for a new style that matches your decor.
  • Updated Warranty: Toilets typically come with a warranty, though some warranties only last for a set number of years. A new toilet is an opportunity for an updated warranty.
  • Do Away With Major Problems: Sometimes, a toilet replacement is outright necessary when repairs aren't enough to get the job done.

Toilet Replacement Drawbacks in Kirkwood, MO

  • Larger Single Expense: 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: While you will end up with a nicer, newer toilet, it will require some coordination. Be ready for a more expansive project for which you'll need to make accommodations.

To summarize, a toilet replacement fits 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 will give you a fair and honest evaluation of your home's toilet. Whether you need a toilet replacement, toilet repair, or any other plumbing assistance, we will make sure you have what you need to make an informed choice on how to move forward.


Toilet Replacement and Repair in Kirkwood | Drain Cleaning STL Toilet Plumbing

5 Common Toilet Problems in Kirkwood, MO, and Their Causes

With the amount of use that toilets get, it's inevitable that some problems will come up on occasion. Toilet repair and replacement usually begins with identifying what's going on and making a plan to address the root cause. In this section, you can read about some typical toilet issues 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. You'll want to be sure that:

  1. That the water supply valve to the toilet is completely open, and
  2. That the fill valve and tube in the toilet's water tank are not obstructed.

It's typically easy to open a valve or clear an obstruction, but if they don't work, there could be an obstruction or leak somewhere farther up your pipes.

Problem 2: Constant Running Water

Solution: Even though this might seem like the opposite problem to a slow-filling toilet, the root problem can actually be closely related. It's typical for this to be caused by debris holding open a valve in the toilet's water tank, and by removing it, everything can return to normal. If that doesn't work, the toilet tank components could be worn out and due for replacement.

Problem 3: Toilet Drain Frequently Clogs

Solution: If there's just a small obstruction in your toilet's drain, you can probably take care of it with a plunger and possibly cleaning the toilet's drain. But the main thing to watch out for is repeated clogs: It this case, you could be facing a sewer line blockage. If you're up against this, a drain camera inspection might be necessary to find the root cause of the problem and come up with a solution.

Problem 4: Toilet Backs Up Water Without a Clog

Solution: If you're seeing water backup from your toilet in the absence of a clog, there's probably another clogged drain further down your home's sewer line. As with frequent clogs, conducting an inspection is probably necessary to find the actual issue. If it's serious, you might want to consider sewer line cleaned as 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. In some cases, the leak will just be a sign of a loose part, and you can resolve it just by tightening something down. If you see water just around the base of the toilet, you might be able to fix it by resealing, but any cracks that are letting water out are unfortunately a sign that a replacement is needed.


Toilet Replacement and Repair in Kirkwood | Drain Cleaning STL Toilet Plumbing

Kirkwood Toilet Repair/Replacement FAQs

In this section, we've answered some of the frequently asked questions we hear regarding toilet replacement and repairs in Kirkwood, 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 due to technological advancements that improve efficiency in modern units.

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

A toilet replacement is necessary if you notice cracks or if it regularly clogs. You might also want to replace it if your current unit is outdated and/or inefficient. Isolated issues can usually be taken care of by 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. 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?

Picking between a repair and a replacement depends on both your needs and the condition of the toilet. 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 complete bathroom remodel, switching out your bathtub and sink all at once. While each situation is unique, a total 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 Kirkwood, MO? Call Drain Cleaning STL.

Drain Cleaning STL are experts in Kirkwood, MO toilet repairs and replacements. We specialize in plumbing emergencies will bet at your door as soon as we can.

Whether your house needs a toilet repair, toilet replacement, or you're not sure and are just looking for guidance, we take pride in providing first-class, friendly service throughout the Kirkwood region. Call us at 314-972-2233 or tell us about your plumbing problem online to plan a service visit.

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