Shrewsbury, MO, Toilet Repair & Replacement. Toilet repairs and toilet replacements each have their pros and cons. You have to weigh up-front versus long-term costs, figure out if your current toilet can keep functioning, and perform inspections for other possible problems in your pipes.

Drain Cleaning STL can help you evaluate your options. On this page, we go over the advantages of repairing versus those of replacing, factors to consider when deciding between the two, and everyday toilet issues you might see in your home.

Continue reading to learn more, but if you're experiencing a plumbing emergency, don't hesitate: Call our team now and we'll send a technician out right away to diagnose and fix the problem. You can get in touch 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 frequently have to worry about bathroom and toilet repairs, it can be unclear when the right choice is to repair or replace. Before you make your decision, be sure to consider the following:

Toilet Repair Benefits in Shrewsbury, MO

  • Shorter Project: When you decide to go with a repair over a full toilet replacement, your Shrewsbury plumber will normally be able to complete the job more quickly.
  • Smoother Process: Repairs don't need as much work on your end as replacements – instead of ordering, loading, transporting, and installing the new toilet and planning your whole day for it, a plumber can usually handle things just in your bathroom.
  • Lower 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 Shrewsbury, MO

  • Miss Out On Replacement Advantages: You can read about replacement benefits below, but should you decide on a toilet repair in place of a replacement, you won't get improved efficiency, a new warranty, and more.
  • Not Always An Option: In some cases, a toilet repair isn't always practical. In cases of critical damage like a cracked bowl, replacement is typically your only real choice.

Generally, repairs work well with more isolated issues, and when you're fine with passing on the benefits of 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 Shrewsbury, MO

  • Modern Efficiency: Today's toilets don't require as much water to flush as older toilets. This saves you on utilities without compromising on effectiveness.
  • Modern Design: A toilet replacement gives you a chance to get something more comfortable. If you want to change the look, you can also look for a new style with an updated aesthetic.
  • Updated Warranty: Toilets generally come with a warranty, though some warranties only last for a set number of years. A new toilet gives you a chance for a new warranty.
  • Defeat Major Problems: In some cases, a toilet replacement is your only option when repairs aren't enough to get the job done.

Toilet Replacement Drawbacks in Shrewsbury, MO

  • 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: Even though it's typically worth it in the end, it's not an easy task. Be ready for a more expansive 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 you're prepared to spend on a newer, more efficient, updated toilet.

When you work with 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 make sure you have what you need to make an informed choice on how to move forward.

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

5 Common Toilet Problems in Shrewsbury, 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 identifying what's going on and coming up with a plan to fix the underlying issue. Below, we've listed some frequent toilet issues and what reasons might be behind them:

Problem 1: Slow-Filling Toilet Bowl

Solution: In most cases, a slow-filling toilet bowl is an easy fix. Most of the time, the issue will be located in the water supply or the water tank. You'll want to check:

  1. That the water supply line to the toilet is completely open, and
  2. That the fill valve and tube in the toilet's water tank aren't being blocked.

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: Even though this might seem like the opposite problem to a slow-filling toilet, they can have similar causes. In many cases, you'll find some 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: 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, the real issue might be in your sewer. If this is the case, a drain camera inspection might be necessary to figure out 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 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 elsewhere in your home's sewer line. Similar to frequent clogs, conducting an inspection is probably necessary to find the actual issue. In extreme cases, you might want to consider 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. 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 signal that a replacement is needed.

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

Shrewsbury Toilet Repair/Replacement Common Questions

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

What is the average lifespan of a toilet?

Your typical toilet will be good for about 20-25 years, but many people opt for an earlier toilet replacement. This is usually motivated by 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. Smaller issues can typically 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. If something is wrong with the valve or there's a loose fitting in the water supply line, that will cause a leak. 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?

Whether a repair or replacement is best depends on the situation. Repairs are best for newer toilets with fewer, more isolated problems. If your toilet is older and/or the damage is severe, look to replace.

Should I replace all my bathroom appliances at once?

If you're replacing your toilet, you might be thinking about a complete bathroom remodel, and getting a new bathtub and sink at the same time. While each bathroom's needs are unique, a total remodel is sometimes easier to do all at once.

If you have other questions 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 Shrewsbury, MO? Call Drain Cleaning STL.

Drain Cleaning STL is prepared for your toilet replacement or repair in Shrewsbury, MO. We are ready for plumbing emergencies, and will get out to your house right away.

If you're looking for a toilet repair, toilet replacement, or help making that decision, we take pride in providing top-notch, friendly service throughout the Shrewsbury region. Speak with us at 314-972-2233 or reach out online to set up your repair/replacement.

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