How To Measure An Elongated Toilet: A Simple Guide For Homeowners
What To Know
- The length of an elongated toilet is measured from the front of the bowl to the center of the mounting bolts that secure it to the floor.
- The rough-in distance refers to the distance from the center of the waste pipe to the center of the mounting bolts.
- Place the measuring tape at the back of the toilet and extend it to the center of the trapway opening.
Elongated toilets, with their extra length compared to round toilets, offer enhanced comfort and support. To ensure a perfect fit during installation or replacement, accurate measurement is crucial. This guide will provide you with a step-by-step process on how to measure an elongated toilet, covering all the essential dimensions you need.
Measuring the Length
The length of an elongated toilet is measured from the front of the bowl to the center of the mounting bolts that secure it to the floor.
1. Front to Mounting Bolts: Using a measuring tape, extend it from the front edge of the bowl to the center of the front mounting bolt. Record the measurement in inches.
2. Mounting Bolts to Back: Continue the measurement from the center of the front mounting bolt to the center of the back mounting bolt. Add this measurement to the previous one.
Measuring the Width
The width of an elongated toilet is measured at its widest point, typically at the base of the bowl.
1. Left to Right: Place the measuring tape at the left edge of the bowl and extend it to the right edge. Note the measurement in inches.
Measuring the Height
The height of an elongated toilet is measured from the floor to the top of the tank lid.
1. Floor to Tank Lid: Extend the measuring tape from the floor to the highest point of the tank lid, which is usually the handle. Record the measurement in inches.
Measuring the Rough-In Distance
The rough-in distance refers to the distance from the center of the waste pipe to the center of the mounting bolts. This measurement is important for determining the compatibility of the toilet with your existing plumbing.
1. Waste Pipe to Mounting Bolts: Measure the distance from the center of the waste pipe to the center of the front mounting bolt. Record the measurement in inches.
Measuring the Trapway Location
The trapway is the curved channel at the base of the toilet bowl that carries waste to the drain. Its location is measured from the back of the toilet.
1. Back of Toilet to Trapway: Place the measuring tape at the back of the toilet and extend it to the center of the trapway opening. Note the measurement in inches.
Measuring the Seat Height
The seat height is measured from the floor to the top of the toilet seat. This measurement is important for ensuring a comfortable sitting position.
1. Floor to Seat: Extend the measuring tape from the floor to the top of the toilet seat. Record the measurement in inches.
Summary
By following these steps, you can accurately measure an elongated toilet, ensuring a perfect fit for your bathroom. Remember to double-check your measurements before purchasing or installing a new toilet to avoid any costly mistakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the standard length of an elongated toilet?
A: Most elongated toilets range from 28 to 31 inches in length.
Q: How far should the toilet be from the wall?
A: The recommended distance between the back of the toilet and the wall is 12 inches.
Q: What is the difference between a round and an elongated toilet?
A: Elongated toilets are longer and more oval-shaped than round toilets, providing additional comfort and support.
Q: Can I install an elongated toilet on a round toilet rough-in?
A: Yes, but you will need to use an offset flange to adjust the distance between the waste pipe and the mounting bolts.
Q: How high should a toilet seat be?
A: The ideal toilet seat height for most adults is between 17 and 19 inches.
