Webster Groves, 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 watch out for other potential issues in your home's plumbing.
Drain Cleaning STL is ready to assist you. In this article, we go over the advantages of repairing versus those of replacing, factors to consider when deciding between the two, and everyday toilet problems and their causes.
Continue reading to learn more, but if you're experiencing a plumbing emergency, don't delay: Call us and we'll send a plumber out right away to help you out. You can talk to us at 314-972-2233 or tell us about the issue online. When you need plumbing help, call Drain Cleaning STL.
You can skip ahead to a specific topic below:
- When To Repair Versus Replace a Toilet
- 5 Frequent Toilet Problems and Fixes
- Webster Groves Toilet Repair/Replacement FAQs
- Start Planning Your Toilet Repair or Replacement
When To Repair Versus Replace a Toilet
If you don't regularly perform bathroom and toilet repairs, it can be unclear when the right choice is to repair or replace. Weighing the benefits and drawbacks of each option is important:
Toilet Repair Benefits in Webster Groves, MO
- Shorter Project: When you opt for a repair in place of a total toilet replacement, your Webster Groves plumbing contractor will often be able to complete the job faster.
- Less Intrusive: Repairs don't require as much planning as replacements – rather than ordering, loading, transporting, and installing the new toilet and planning your whole day for it, most of the time, all you have to do for repairs is let the plumber into your bathroom.
- Lower Up-Front Cost: Purchasing a toilet replacement can be expensive, and opting for a repair will often save you some money in the short term.
Toilet Repair Drawbacks in Webster Groves, MO
- Miss Out On Replacement Advantages: You can read about replacement benefits in the next section, but should you opt for a toilet repair over a replacement, you'll miss out on improved efficiency, an updated warranty, and more.
- Situationally Not An Option: depending on what's wrong, a toilet repair could be impractical. If there is serious damage such as a cracked bowl, replacement is probably your only real choice.
Generally, repairs are good choices for smaller problems, and when you're not in need of a brand new toilet. When it's impractical for you to handle a replacement, go with a toilet repair.
Toilet Replacement Benefits in Webster Groves, MO
- Better Efficiency: Updated toilets don't require as much water to flush as older toilets. This saves you on water bills without compromising flush quality.
- Updated Design: A toilet replacement gives you a chance for a cozier seat. You will also have the chance to pick a new style with an updated aesthetic.
- Updated Warranty: Most toilets come with a warranty, though some warranties only last for a set number of years. A new toilet is an opportunity for a new warranty.
- Defeat Major Problems: Like it or not, sometimes a toilet replacement is the only choice when problems are too much for repairs to handle.
Toilet Replacement Drawbacks in Webster Groves, MO
- Larger Single Expense: A toilet replacement is an investment. You'll need to be prepared to pay a bill of over a hundred dollars for the full installation.
- Larger Project: Even though it's typically worth it in the end, it's not an easy task. Be prepared for a more expansive project and all that entails.
In short, a toilet replacement makes the most sense when your current toilet has a massive problem that would be impractical to repair. It also makes sense 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, our plumbers will be upfront with you about what we think is the best option for your situation. If 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.
5 Common Toilet Problems in Webster Groves, 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 starts with diagnosing the problem and creating a plan to address the root cause. Below, we've listed 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, the issue will be located in the water supply or the water tank. You'll want to check:
- That the water supply line 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 the issue remains after checking both of those, 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 they can have similar causes. In many cases, you'll find some debris stopping a valve in the water tank from closing, and by removing it, everything can return to normal. If the problem remains after that, the toilet tank components might need to be repaired or replaced.
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, the root cause might be somewhere deeper, in your sewer line. In this case, a drain camera inspection could 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 you're seeing water backup from your toilet in the absence of a clog, there's a good chance that there's another clogged drain deeper in your home's plumbing. Just like with frequent clogs, an inspection can help identify the actual problem. For widespread wastewater backups, you might want to consider sewer line cleaned as a long-term fix.
Problem 5: Leaks
Solution: Whether you need a toilet repair or a toilet replacement for a leak mostly comes down to its location and size. In some cases, the leak will just be a sign of a loose part, and fixing it is as easy as tightening a screw. 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.
Webster Groves Toilet Repair/Replacement FAQs
In this section, we've answered some of the most frequent questions we hear regarding toilet replacement and repairs in Webster Groves, MO:
What is the average lifespan of a toilet?
Most toilets can last around 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. Other issues can typically be taken care of by 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. 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. And water tank leaks can either come from malfunctioning internals or cracks in the wall.
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 already replacing your toilet, it could be worth considering a a total bathroom remodel, switching out your bathtub and sink at the same time. While each situation is unique, a complete remodel can provide both aesthetic and functional improvements.
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 Webster Groves, MO? Call Drain Cleaning STL.
Drain Cleaning STL has over a decade of experience serving Webster Groves, MO, homes, including performing toilet replacements and repairs. For any plumbing emergencies, give use a call and we will bet at your door as soon as we can.
Whether you need a toilet repair, toilet replacement, or help making that decision, we are ready to provide first-class, quality service throughout the Webster Groves region. Call us at 314-972-2233 or tell us about your toilet issue online to set up your repair/replacement.
We also offer these services in Webster Groves, MO:
- Drain Repair
- Sewer Line Repair
- Clogged Drain
- Drain Cleaning Contractors
- Unclog Drain
- Drain Cleaning Services
- Drain Cleaning