Renovation: Can Move Toilet Position

During renovation, the toilet position can be moved, but appropriate methods must be selected according to specific circumstances and relevant precautions must be taken.

I. Selecting Methods Based on Relocation Distance

• Short relocation distance (1 to 30 centimeters): A relocation device can be used to connect the original sewage outlet and the new position. However, when the distance exceeds 15 centimeters, the risk of blockage increases. In this case, proper pipe sealing must be carried out to prevent sewage leakage.
• Relocation distance exceeding 30 centimeters: There are two common methods. One is to raise the floor, that is, to lay new pipes on top of the original floor. However, this method will reduce the height of the bathroom floor and affect the sense of space. The other is to re-lay pipes, which is suitable for long-distance relocation or sunken bathrooms. Re-laying pipes requires chiseling the floor or wall to lay new sewage pipes, which is a large amount of work. Moreover, it is necessary to discuss with the neighbors downstairs as it may affect them. At the same time, re-doing waterproofing is also an essential step to avoid leakage problems.

II. Differences in Relocation Methods for Different Drainage Systems

• Same-floor drainage (sunken bathroom): The floor is about 40 cm lower than the floor above. The drainage pipes are in one's own home, and relocating the toilet is relatively simple as the drainage pipes can be directly changed.
• Inter-floor drainage (drainage pipes pass through the floor slab for drainage): Relocation is more troublesome, and there are four methods. One is wall drainage, which requires being close to the pipes and is troublesome for pipe laying, so it is not highly recommended. The second is to raise the floor, but using a raised floor is uncomfortable and prone to tripping, which may not be worth the effort. The third is to use a relocation device. It is recommended that the maximum distance should not exceed 40 centimeters. The place where the relocation device is embedded should have a slope of more than 3% for drainage, and waterproofing must be done. The fourth is to re-open a hole in the floor slab for relocation, which requires formwork hanging treatment later, but most owners downstairs cannot accept it.

III. Other Precautions If it is not particularly necessary, it is not recommended to move the toilet position, especially in old houses or cases with complex pipes. Be sure to find a professional plumber for construction to ensure construction quality and safety. There are also considerations when choosing a toilet after relocation. If the sewage pipe has a trap, do not choose a siphon toilet or a smart toilet. Only a straight-flush toilet can be used. Otherwise, it may affect the normal use and drainage effect of the toilet.