Lemay, 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 take into account other possible issues in your home's plumbing.

Drain Cleaning STL is ready to assist you. On this page, you can read about the advantages of repairing versus those of replacing, factors to consider when deciding between the two, and typical toilet difficulties and what to do about them.

Keep reading for more information, but if you're experiencing a plumbing emergency, don't delay: Call us and we'll be out fast to find a solution. You can reach us at 314-972-2233 or tell us about the issue online. We want to give your Lemay home the care and attention it deserves.

You can skip ahead to a specific topic below:


When To Repair Versus Replace a Toilet

If you don't regularly perform bathroom and toilet repairs, it can be unclear whether you should repair or replace. When deciding between the two, keep the following things in mind:

Toilet Repair Benefits in Lemay, MO

  • Shorter Project: When you decide on a repair over a full toilet replacement, your Lemay plumber will generally be able to take care of it more quickly.
  • Minimal Life Interruptions: Repairs are normally easier to perform than replacements – instead of 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 isn't cheap, and deciding to repair will often save you some money in the short term.

Toilet Repair Drawbacks in Lemay, MO

  • Miss Out On Replacement Advantages: You can read about replacement advantages next, but when you opt for a toilet repair over a replacement, you'll miss out on increased efficiency, an updated warranty, and more.
  • Might Be Impractical: depending on what's wrong, a toilet repair may not be practical. If there is drastic damage like a cracked bowl, replacement may be your only real choice.

Generally, 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 Lemay, MO

  • Better Efficiency: Today's toilets use less water per flush than outdated toilets. Upgrading can save you on water bills while keeping a powerful, effective flush.
  • Modern Design: A toilet replacement is an opportunity to get something more comfortable. You can also take the opportunity to go with 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 gives you a chance for an updated warranty.
  • Do Away With Major Problems: Like it or not, sometimes a toilet replacement is the only choice when repairs aren't enough to get the job done.

Toilet Replacement Drawbacks in Lemay, MO

  • Bigger Immediate Expense: A toilet replacement 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 ready for a longer project with more life adjustments.

To summarize, a toilet replacement fits best 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'll bring an expert eye to your current toilet when we make recommendations. Whether you need a toilet replacement, toilet repair, or another plumbing service, we will be by your side and help you find the right answer for your home.


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

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

If you're a homeowner, you'll run into a toilet clog at some point or another. Toilet repair and replacement typically begins with examining the symptoms and coming up with a plan to fix the root cause. In this section, you can read about some common toilet problems 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. 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 line coming in from the wall 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: Constantly running toilets are the flip side of slow-filling toilets, but the root problem can actually be closely related. The main thing you'll want to watch out for is debris keeping a valve in the water tank from shutting, and clearing it away will restore full functionality. If that doesn't work, the toilet tank components could be worn out and due for replacement.

Problem 3: Toilet Drain Frequently Clogs

Solution: For the occasional toilet clog, it can probably be resolved using a plunger and possibly cleaning the toilet's drain. If clogs are a regular thing with your toilet, though, you might actually have an issue with your sewer line instead. In this case, a drain camera inspection could be necessary to locate the root cause of the problem and provide a solution.

Problem 4: Toilet Backs Up Water Without a Clog

Solution: If water is coming up the drain of your toilet even though it's not clogged, there's a good chance that there's another clogged drain further down your home's plumbing. Just like with frequent clogs, an inspection can help identify the actual problem. In extreme cases, you might want to look at getting 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. In some cases, it just means that something wasn't screwed into place properly, and you can tighten the valve or fitting to stop it. 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 your toilet needs to be replaced.


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

Lemay Toilet Repair/Replacement Common Questions

In this section, we've answered some of the regular questions we hear related to toilet replacement and repairs in Lemay, MO:

What is the average lifespan of a toilet?

Most toilets will have a lifespan of approximately 20-25 years, but it's common for people to replace it sooner than that. Normally, this is because of 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 problems can usually be handled through toilet repairs.

Where are the most common places that toilets leak?

The major areas you'll want to watch out for toilet leaks are the base, the water supply line, and the water tank. If you see a leak in the base, check for broken or worn-away sealant. Water supply line leaks are usually caused by loose valves. Lastly, if there's a leak coming from the water tank, you'll want to check for cracks and damaged internal mechanisms.

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. 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 replacing your toilet, you might be thinking about a full bathroom remodel, and getting a new bathtub and sink all together. While each scenario is different, a full remodel is sometimes easier to do all at once.


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 Lemay, MO? Call Drain Cleaning STL.

Drain Cleaning STL has over a decade of experience serving Lemay, MO, homes, including performing toilet replacements and repairs. We're ready if you're facing a plumbing emergency, and will be there to help right away.

Whether you're looking for a toilet repair, toilet replacement, or any other plumbing help, with Drain Cleaning STL you'll get high quality, friendly service throughout the Lemay region. Call us at 314-972-2233 or describe your toilet issue online to plan a service visit.

We also offer these services in Lemay, MO: