Toilet installation and repair
Most Schertz homeowners call about toilets when they're already dealing with a problem—a toilet that won't stop running, a slow leak pooling around the base, or a flush that's gotten weak over time. High water pressure is common in parts of Schertz, especially in lower-elevation areas, and that can wear out fill valves and flappers faster than normal. Hard water from the Edwards Aquifer doesn't help either—it leaves mineral deposits that can clog jets and reduce flushing power.
We handle toilet repairs, replacements, and new installs. If your toilet is running constantly, it's usually the flapper or fill valve. If it's rocking or leaking at the base, the wax ring has likely failed. If the flush is weak, mineral buildup in the rim jets is often the cause. We'll diagnose the issue, explain what's needed, and give you a straightforward quote before starting any work.
When to Repair vs. Replace a Toilet
A running toilet or a leaky flapper is a simple fix. Same with a worn-out fill valve or a cracked tank lid. But if your toilet is old, inefficient, or constantly needing repairs, replacement usually makes more sense. Older toilets use 3.5 to 7 gallons per flush. Newer models use 1.28 gallons or less, which adds up to real savings on your water bill—especially if you're on city water in Schertz.
If the porcelain is cracked, the toilet rocks no matter how many times you tighten the bolts, or you're replacing parts every few months, it's time for a new one. We can walk you through options that fit your budget and bathroom layout. Most installs take a few hours, and we'll haul away the old toilet when we're done.
Common Toilet Problems in Schertz Homes
High water pressure wears out internal components faster. If your home's pressure is above 80 psi—which is common here—you'll go through flappers and fill valves more often than you should. A pressure-reducing valve solves that and protects all your fixtures, not just the toilet.
Hard water clogs the small jets under the toilet rim, which weakens the flush. You'll notice the bowl doesn't clear as well as it used to, or it takes two flushes to get the job done. Cleaning the jets with vinegar can help temporarily, but if the buildup is severe, replacement is usually the better option.
Wax ring failures are another frequent issue, especially in homes with shifting foundations or soil movement—something we see in newer Schertz developments. If there's water pooling around the base after a flush, the seal has failed and needs to be replaced before it damages your subfloor.
Choosing a New Toilet
If you're replacing a toilet, the main decision is between a standard-height model and a comfort-height (ADA) model. Comfort-height toilets are a couple inches taller and easier to use for most adults. They're the standard in new construction now.
For water efficiency, look for WaterSense-labeled toilets that use 1.28 gallons per flush or less. They're required in new builds and they'll cut your water usage significantly compared to older 3.5-gallon models. Dual-flush toilets give you a light flush option for liquid waste, but the single-flush models work just fine and have fewer parts to fail.
Round bowls take up less space. Elongated bowls are more comfortable. Most people go elongated unless the bathroom is tight. We'll measure your rough-in distance (the space from the wall to the center of the drain) before ordering anything, so the new toilet fits correctly the first time.
Toilet Installation Process
We remove the old toilet, inspect the flange and subfloor for damage, replace the wax ring, and set the new toilet. If the flange is cracked or corroded—common in older Schertz homes—we'll replace or repair it before installing the new toilet. If the subfloor is soft or water-damaged, that needs to be addressed too, or the new toilet will have the same rocking and leaking issues as the old one.
Most installs take two to three hours. We test for leaks, make sure the flush is working properly, and clean up before we leave. If you're upgrading multiple bathrooms, we can usually knock them all out in one visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my toilet keep running?
Usually it's a worn flapper or a fill valve that's not shutting off. High water pressure accelerates wear on these parts. We can replace them in one visit. If the problem keeps coming back, a pressure-reducing valve is worth considering.
How much does it cost to replace a toilet in Schertz?
It depends on the toilet you choose and whether there's any flange or subfloor damage. A straightforward replacement with a mid-range toilet typically runs a few hundred dollars. If we need to repair the flange or replace part of the subfloor, that adds to the cost. We'll give you a quote before starting.
Can hard water damage a toilet?
Hard water clogs the rim jets and siphon jet, which weakens the flush. It also leaves stains in the bowl that are tough to clean. A water softener prevents buildup in the toilet and protects your other fixtures and appliances too.
Should I repair or replace my toilet?
If it's a simple fix like a flapper or fill valve, repair makes sense. If the toilet is old, inefficient, constantly breaking, or the porcelain is cracked, replacement is the better option. We'll walk you through what makes sense for your situation.
Do you haul away the old toilet?
Yes. We remove the old toilet and dispose of it properly. You don't have to deal with it.