Tips And TricksUpdated June 27, 2026
Many Willowbrook homes were built during the 1960s and 1970s. Over time, original bathrooms can become less comfortable or accessible, especially as families grow or needs change. One easy way to improve bathroom comfort is swapping out an old, standard-height toilet for a comfort-height model. This change can make daily routines easier for anyone with mobility concerns and for taller family members, while also giving your bathroom a more modern feel.
What Makes Comfort-Height Toilets Different
Comfort-height toilets, also called right-height or ADA-compliant toilets, sit about 17 to 19 inches from the floor to the top of the seat. That's a couple of inches higher than older standard models, which often measure around 15 inches. Those few inches mean less strain on knees and hips, making them especially helpful for older adults or anyone with joint trouble.
When we upgrade a toilet in an older Willowbrook home, we always check the surrounding fixture heights and spacing. Sometimes original bathrooms have tight footprints or lower vanities. It's important to make sure a new toilet fits comfortably without crowding other features.
What to Check Before Upgrading an Old Toilet
Installing a new toilet sounds straightforward, but homes in Willowbrook often come with plumbing quirks from age and past remodels. Here are the key checks our team makes before swapping out an old toilet:
- Flange height and condition. The flange is the fitting that connects the toilet to your drain pipe. Over time, these can rust, crack, or sit too high or low for today's taller toilets.
- Supply line type and shutoff valve. We look for aging galvanized or corroded copper supply lines, and test the shutoff valve under the tank. Some older valves leak or won't close fully.
- Flooring material and waterproofing. Many Willowbrook homes have bathroom floors made of older vinyl or tile, sometimes on top of plywood that may have water damage. We check for rot or soft spots around the old toilet.
- Waste pipe material. Cast iron and clay tile are common in older homes. These can have internal buildup or even root intrusion. If we see signs of a stubborn clog, we recommend a drain cleaning first.
How to Choose the Right Comfort-Height Toilet
There are dozens of comfort-height toilets on the market, but some work better in older homes than others. We steer homeowners toward models with universal rough-in distances (12-inch is most standard), powerful flush ratings, and easy-clean features. Pay attention to:
- Elongated vs. round bowl. Elongated bowls offer more comfort, but may stick out more in smaller bathrooms. Measure available space carefully.
- One-piece vs. two-piece. One-piece toilets are easier to clean, but heavier and pricier than two-piece models.
- Flush mechanism. Modern toilets often use 1.28 gallons per flush or less. Pressure-assisted models clear waste better, but can be noisier.
- Finish and color. Most homeowners choose white or off-white, but newer models come in many finishes if you want to match a specific look.
Replacing a Toilet Step-by-Step
Our plumbers follow a clear process for toilet upgrades. If you're considering this as a DIY, these are the basic steps, but keep in mind some jobs require specialized tools or knowledge, especially if you run into rusted closet bolts or a crumbling flange.
- Turn off the water at the shutoff valve.
- Flush and remove as much water from the old tank and bowl as possible.
- Disconnect the supply line and unbolt the old toilet from the floor. Remove and set aside.
- Inspect the flange and waste pipe for cracks, rot, or wax build-up. Repair or replace as needed (sometimes old pipes need pipe repair or repiping).
- Install a new wax ring and set the new toilet carefully over the flange.
- Bolt down, reconnect the supply, and check for leaks by slowly turning the water back on.
- Test flush and adjust the fill valve and flapper if needed.
If you notice leaks at the base, stubborn rocking, or gurgling from other drains, it could point to a deeper sewer issue. Our team can check for blockages or recommend sewer line services for extra peace of mind.
Hidden Plumbing Issues During Bathroom Remodeling
Bathroom remodels tend to reveal hidden problems, especially in older houses in Willowbrook. Homes in this area sometimes have soft subfloors, water-damaged joists, or evidence of slow leaks. We often see low water pressure tied to old galvanized pipes, or slow drains that might point to partial clogs or tree roots in clay tile sewer lines.
Whenever we spot signs of a previous slow leak near the old toilet, we check the condition of surrounding pipes and may recommend a leak detection and repair service. Upgrading a toilet is also a great time to swap in a new shutoff valve or add a supply line with a braided stainless flex hose for added durability. For a complete bathroom update, we can help with faucet and fixture installation as well.
Other Ways to Modernize Your Bathroom
While a comfort-height toilet improves convenience, consider pairing this upgrade with other practical changes. Replacing an old shutoff valve or adding a water-efficient faucet extends the impact. Some homeowners also use this opportunity to swap in new drain assemblies if the existing ones show signs of rust or slow draining. If you have concerns about recurring backups or slow drainage, ask us about drain cleaning for a fresh start.
Our plumbers are familiar with the quirks of Willowbrook's older housing stock. From uneven floors to aging clay-tile waste lines, we know what to watch for to keep your upgrade running smoothly long after installation.
If you're ready to modernize your Willowbrook bathroom with a comfort-height toilet or want expert advice before you start, give our crew a call at 708-726-0102. We handle everything from fixture upgrades to full plumbing repairs, and we're always happy to talk through options or set up a visit.