HandyMangum, Residential & Commercial Services

Aging in place · Toilet replacement

Comfort-height toilet replacement

Quick answer

A comfort-height toilet (also sold as chair-height, right-height or ADA-height) has a taller bowl, so the seat sits about 17 to 19 inches off the floor instead of about 15. That small difference makes sitting and standing much easier on knees, hips and backs. HandyMangum removes the old toilet and installs the new one with a new wax ring, bolts and supply line, then hauls the old one away.

What changes with a taller toilet

A standard toilet is roughly the height of a child's chair. A comfort-height toilet is closer to a dining chair. For most adults that means less strain every time, and for many it is the difference between needing help and not.

It is a like-for-like swap on the same drain, so the job usually fits in a single visit. We also check the flange and the floor around it, since a rocking toilet or soft floor should be fixed before the new one goes in.

Who it helps

  • Anyone with knee, hip or back pain
  • Taller adults
  • People who use a raised seat today and want a permanent fix
  • Homes being updated for aging in place
  • Bathroom refreshes and remodels
  • Rentals and offices that want an easier toilet for everyone

What the job involves

  1. Check the bathroom

    We measure the rough-in (the distance from wall to drain) and look at the flange, floor and shut-off valve.

  2. Remove the old toilet

    Shut off, drain, unbolt and lift it out. We look for damage under it.

  3. Set the new toilet

    New wax ring or wax-free seal, new closet bolts and supply line, then level and caulk.

  4. Test and haul away

    We flush-test for leaks and take the old toilet with us.

Options to think about

Elongated or round bowl

Elongated bowls are more comfortable for most adults and leave more room for a transfer; round bowls save space in a small bathroom.

One-piece or two-piece

One-piece toilets are easier to clean; two-piece toilets cost less and are easier to carry into tight spaces.

Lever or push-button flush

A large lever on the side the person can reach easily is often easier than a small button.

Add a bidet seat

Many comfort-height toilets take a bidet seat; we can install both at once.

Bidet seats

Add a grab bar

A bar on the side wall makes the new height even easier to use.

Grab bars

Wall-hung toilets

Set at any height, but they need wall framing and plumbing changes, usually as part of a remodel.

Remodeling

Good to know

  • ADA guidelines put the top of the seat at 17 to 19 inches above the floor. Most comfort-height toilets fall in that range.
  • For a shorter person, an extra-tall toilet can leave the feet dangling. We help you pick a height that fits.
  • If the flange is broken or the subfloor is soft, we tell you before we go further and quote the repair.
  • If any part of the job needs a permit or a state-licensed trade, such as new plumbing lines or new wiring, we tell you during the quote and that part is handled by properly licensed professionals.

Comfort-Height Toilets FAQs

What is a comfort-height toilet?

A toilet with a taller bowl, so the seat is about 17 to 19 inches from the floor instead of about 15. Brands call it comfort height, chair height, right height or ADA height.

Is an ADA-height toilet the same as comfort height?

Usually yes. "ADA height" is a sales term for toilets whose seat height falls within ADA guidelines of 17 to 19 inches. We install them following ADA guidelines.

How long does a toilet replacement take?

A straight swap is usually a couple of hours. A broken flange or damaged floor adds time, and we tell you before we start that part.

Can I supply my own toilet?

Yes. Buy it and we will install it, or we can recommend models. Check the rough-in first; most homes are 12 inches.

Do you take the old toilet away?

Yes. Haul-away and cleanup are part of the job.

How much does a toilet replacement cost?

It depends on the toilet and what we find under the old one. We give a free written quote first. $150 minimum service charge applies to small jobs.

Ready for a toilet that is easier to use?

Call or text (407) 699-1123, or send the online request with a few photos. Estimates are free on every job.