Is your toilet looking a bit worse for wear? The cost of replacing a toilet can vary widely, typically ranging from R1800 to R5000 or more, depending on the type of toilet and the complexity of the installation. For straightforward replacements, prices generally start at R1800 and can go up to R2500. However, most toilet replacement projects fall between R3000 and R5000. Costs can climb higher if the plumbing needs to be reconfigured.
Types of Toilet
When upgrading your bathroom, you’ll come across several types of toilet suites, each offering different benefits and styles:
- Close-Coupled Toilet: This is a very common design where the cistern is directly mounted above the toilet bowl, creating a compact and streamlined unit.
- Wall-Faced Toilet: This design features a concealed cistern, with the toilet sitting flush against the wall, which helps maximize space and enhances the bathroom’s aesthetic.
- Back to Wall Toilet: In this setup, both the toilet and the cistern are attached directly to the bathroom wall, creating a neat appearance with no visible piping.
- Wall-Hung Toilet: Similar to the wall faced toilet, but this version is mounted directly on the wall and elevated above the floor. It is the most stylish and typically the most expensive option, offering easy cleaning and a modern look.
Each type of toilet has its own set of advantages, depending on your bathroom layout and style preferences. Just remember that you might incur additional costs when changing the type of toilet you have.
Hiring a Plumber
When the time comes to hire a plumber, it’s crucial to ensure they are the right fit for your project. Here are some key questions to ask:
- Are you licensed?
- Are you insured to work in my home?
- How long will my project take?
- Can you provide a written estimate?
- Do you have any references I can follow up on?
- Can I see examples of your work?
Choosing and Costing a New Toilet
Before you replace your toilet, you’ll need to select a new one. The cost of toilets varies widely depending on the type you choose. Prices can range from as low as R1000 to over R10000 for more sophisticated models like floor-mounted toilets with concealed tanks or wall-hung toilets. On average, a good quality floor-mounted vitreous china toilet typically costs between R1800 and R6500.
Here are some current prices to give you an idea:
- R900 for a Coral White Dual Top Flush Toilet Suite
- R2799 for a Betta Dune Dual Top Flush Toilet Suite
- R2999 for a Betta Atlantis White Concealed Pan, including seat and fixations
- R3999 for a Siri White Wall Hung Toilet Pan, including a seat
- R2999 for a Mia White Square Freestanding Rimless Toilet with a Soft Close Toilet Seat
Cost of Toilet Installation
The cost of installing a new toilet can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the installation and the type of toilet you choose. Plumbers typically charge per hour, with rates starting at around R550 per hour. Due to their experience with numerous installations, plumbers can often provide firm quotes for standard replacements.
For a straightforward toilet installation, you might expect to pay between R1800 and R2500. However, the average cost of replacing a toilet generally falls between R2500 and R4000+. If you opt for a more complex system, such as a toilet with a concealed tank or a wall-hung model, the installation costs will be higher due to the increased time and expertise required.
Get a quote from your local toilet expert today!
Getting quotes from plumbers
When seeking quotes for plumbing work, it’s important to consider the experience and qualifications of the professionals you’re evaluating. Experienced plumbers can usually provide a reliable cost estimate upfront. Keep in mind that a certified master plumber, although possibly charging a higher hourly rate, might ultimately be more cost-effective than a less experienced or less well-equipped plumber who offers a lower rate. The initial hourly rate alone should not be the sole criterion for your decision.
To ensure you are getting a fair price, the best approach is to obtain quotes from several local plumbers. This comparison will give you a clear view of the current market rates and help you make an informed choice. By reaching out to a network of professional plumbers, you can find the best plumber for your needs at the most competitive price.
