Household items that are of lower quality and not properly maintained may not last as long as stated by the manufacturer, especially when they are subjected to extreme conditions. A quality toilet can last for a long time with proper care and maintenance. Although toilets do not have expiration dates like consumables, they are made up of parts that eventually wear out over time because of constant use. Some of these parts include flush valve assembly, toilet seat, or the seal connecting the base to the floor. There are many other factors to consider if you want to know when to replace your toilet. This article discusses for how long a quality toilet should last.
The Average Lifespan of a Quality Toilet
How long a quality toilet can last will depend on a variety of factors such as the durability of its components and frequency of use. Although a good toilet can serve you for an extended period, it cannot last forever regardless of how long it is maintained. A toilet bowl can last for many decades without the need for replacement. Professional plumbers suggest that high -end quality toilets can last for 20 to 50 years or more with proper care and maintenance. However, this does not mean that other parts of the toilet will not require a replacement. Its longevity may be shortened by the frequency and method of use, level of maintenance, and quality of the brand.
Some of the parts of a toilet that may be replaced often include the flushing system, closing lid, toilet seat, and bolts that hold it firmly in place. A wobbling toilet may require tightening the bolts properly while a good flushing system makes the bowl clean and saves water with every use. It is not necessary to purchase a new toilet when few repairs are enough. The key is to know when to repair your toilet instead of replacing it. However, there are still a few instances when it is a good idea to replace your toilet.
How Often Should You Replace Your Toilet?
Since a quality toilet is expected to last for many decades, there is no particular period for replacing it especially when everything seems to be functioning properly. However, many people are always conscious of using very old items because mineral buildup caused by hard water reduces the level of hygiene. Other people choose to replace their toilets because they want to keep up with the latest models and current designs that blend well with their new décor. It is essential to have a quality toilet as it not only lasts for a long time but also provides you with a safe and comfortable toilet experience.
Reasons to Replace Your Toilet
- Visual Stains and Scratches
The surface of the porcelain toilet may become difficult to keep clean once it is worn out or scratched. This is usually caused by excess mineral buildup from hard water and different chemical products used when cleaning. If you find yourself cleaning your toilet more often then you need to rid yourself of extra maintenance by purchasing a new toilet.
- Porcelain Cracks
When cleaning the toilet, it is important to check for any signs of cracks, as it could be the source of an active leak. Small cracks can develop in the toilet bowl or tank and may get worse over time if nothing is done to mitigate the problem. It is always a good idea to replace your toilet if you notice several cracks inside the bowl or water leaking when you flush.
- Excessive Repairs
If you find yourself spending extra money on unnecessary repairs, then you might consider replacing your toilet with a new one. Rebuilding a toilet may require purchasing a few items such as the fill valve, the flapper, flush handle or the toilet seat. Although some of these repairs can be done easily, they can cost a significant amount of time and money, which accumulates over time with each repair.
- Frequent Clogging
A toilet that requires plunging more often is a nuisance and may consume a lot of water. If your toilet is plagued with random stoppages then you should consider replacing it with a new model to save water and increase the ease of use.
Quality toilets can last for many decades but some of its parts may require a replacement after repeated use. If you are finding it difficult to keep your toilet clean or you spend more money on frequent repairs, then purchasing a new toilet can be the best solution to your problems. A good quality toilet can last for a long time as long as it is properly maintained and all its components operate normally.