Installing a urinal seems intimidating, but with proper instructions and a little DIY go-get-em, most homeowners and business owners can tackle it easily. While urinals add a touch of convenience, they can also significantly reduce water usage, making them eco-friendly.
In this guide, you’ll get a easy-to-follow breakdown of the installation process, so you can get the job done and have an optimally performing urinal ASAP. Let’s go ahead and dive in.
Tools and Materials Needed
Before your begin, avoid unnecessary delays and ensure a smooth installation by gathering all the necessary materials. Here’s what you’ll need:
Urinal
Your choice of urinal is the key to your entire project. You’ll find everything fro,m sleek wall-hung models to durable floor-mounted versions available.
When making your choice, it’s important to factor in water efficiency, material, size, and flush mechanism to ensure you find the perfect fit for your space. The right urinal will properly balance functionality and your aesthetic tastes.
Mounting Hardware
Urinal mounting kits typically include the necessary brackets, bolts, and screws to secure the urinal to the wall or floor. Before you get ahead of yourself, make sure that the kit is compatible with your chosen urinal model. If not, you might need to buy some additional hardware.
Wrenches
There are three useful wrenches for urinal installation:
- An adjustable wrench is essential for tightening and loosening nuts and bolts.
- A basin wrench can be helpful for accessing tight spaces, particularly when connecting the water supply line.
- A socket wrench set might also be necessary if the bolts are difficult to reach.
Pipe Sealant or Teflon Tape
These materials are crucial for creating watertight seals on threaded connections. Choose a high-quality sealant specifically designed for plumbing applications to avoid any leaks.
Level
You want to be absolutely certain that your urinal is perfectly straight, both horizontally and vertically. This is crucial for both the urinal’s function and appearance. This is where a level becomes indispensable.
Measuring Tape
Measuring tape will help you figure out the correct placement and height for your urinal, as well as to measure pipe lengths if needed. Accurate measurements will help you avoid installation errors.
Water Supply Line and Shut-Off Valve
You’ll need a water supply line to connect the urinal to your plumbing system. If there isn’t an existing shut-off valve, install one to control the water flow to the urinal. This will also make any future maintenance much easier.
Drill
Depending on what your wall’s made of, you might need a drill to create holes for mounting the urinal and securing the water supply line. Take a look at your drill bits and ensure you have the right ones for your specific wall type.
Optional Tools
A screwdriver, pliers, and a bucket (to catch any remaining water in the pipes) can be useful for additional tasks during installation. Having these tools on hand can help you address any unexpected issues that may arise quickly.
Choosing the Right Urinal
The urinal you choose will have a significant impact on the look, functionality, and efficiency of your bathroom. Making the right choice can also affect the ease of installation and maintenance. Consider the following types and factors:
Types of Urinals
- Wall-hung: These urinals are mounted directly to the wall, creating a modern, minimalist look. They are space-saving and easy to clean around, making them a popular choice for both commercial and residential settings.
- Stall urinals: Ideal for commercial restrooms, stall urinals offer privacy and are often equipped with partitions. They are designed for high-traffic areas and can accommodate multiple users in a single restroom.
- Floor-mounted: These urinals are supported by a base on the floor, offering stability and a classic look. They are less common in modern installations but can be ideal for certain architectural styles or specific user needs.
- Waterless urinals: Eco-friednly waterless urinals eliminate the need for flushing water, reducing water consumption dramatically. They do require special cleaning solutions and their installation can be slightly different due to the lack of a flush system.
Factors to Consider
- Water efficiency: Prioritize urinals with low-flow flush systems to conserve water. Look for models that are certified by WaterSense or similar programs, as these will help reduce water usage without sacrificing performance.
- Material: Porcelain is a popular choice for its durability and easy maintenance. Stainless steel is also a durable option, offering a modern aesthetic and resistance to stains. Each material has its pros and cons, so choose based on your priorities.
- Size and shape: Measure your available space carefully and choose a urinal that fits comfortably. Consider the height and depth of the urinal bowl, as well as the overall dimensions. A urinal that is too large or small can disrupt the flow of the bathroom design.
- Flush mechanism: Manual flush mechanisms are the most common, but automatic and sensor-activated options offer added convenience and hygiene benefits. Sensor-activated flush systems are beneficial in high-traffic areas where frequent use is expected.
Pre-Installation Steps
Careful planning before installation will save you time and headaches later on. Follow these essential steps:
Location
Determine the optimal placement for your urinal. Consider factors such as user traffic flow, proximity to other fixtures, and compliance with local plumbing codes. Mark the location on the wall or floor with a pencil. Consult a plumber if you’re unsure about the best placement.
Height
The standard urinal rim height is 24 inches from the floor, but this can be adjusted depending on the intended users (e.g., children, adults). Measure and mark the desired height on the wall. For public restrooms, consider ADA compliance, which dictates different height requirements.
Water Supply
Locate the nearest cold water supply line. If there isn’t an existing shut-off valve dedicated to the urinal, install one. This will allow you to turn off the water supply to the urinal without affecting other fixtures. Additionally, ensure the water pressure is adequate for the urinal’s flush system.
Installation Process
Now that you’ve completed the pre-installation steps, it’s time to install the urinal:
Mounting
Wall-hung:
- Align the mounting bracket with the marked location on the wall. Ensure it’s level before marking the drill holes.(Tip: Use a level to ensure the bracket is perfectly horizontal before marking the drill holes.)
- Drill pilot holes into the wall using a masonry bit (if necessary) and insert wall anchors.
- Secure the mounting bracket to the wall using screws or bolts.
- Carefully hang the urinal on the mounting bracket, ensuring it’s level and secure. Double-check the alignment before tightening the bolts.
Floor-mounted:
- Position the urinal base at the marked location on the floor. (Tip: If your floor is uneven, use shims to level the urinal base before securing it.)
- Mark the drill holes for the floor anchors.
- Drill pilot holes and insert floor anchors (if required).
- Secure the urinal to the floor using the provided hardware, ensuring it’s level and stable. Make any final adjustments before tightening all bolts.
Plumbing
If there isn’t an existing water supply line for the urinal, install one using PEX or copper piping. Secure the pipe to the wall using pipe clamps. Connect the water supply line to the urinal inlet using the appropriate fitting and a wrench.
Wrap the threads of the fitting with Teflon tape or apply pipe sealant to create a watertight seal. Tighten the connection securely, but avoid overtightening to prevent damage to the fittings.
Sealing
For wall-hung urinals, apply a bead of silicone sealant around the back of the urinal where it meets the wall. This will prevent water from seeping behind the urinal and causing damage to the wall.
For floor-mounted urinals, apply sealant around the base where it meets the floor to create a watertight seal. This step is essential to prevent water damage to the flooring material.
Flushing Mechanism
If your urinal has a separate flush mechanism, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation. This typically involves connecting the flush valve to the water supply line and adjusting the flush volume.
Test the flush mechanism several times to ensure it operates smoothly and provides adequate water flow. Make any necessary adjustments to the flush volume or timing.
Testing
- Slowly turn on the water supply at the shut-off valve.
- Check all connections for leaks. Tighten any loose connections or reapply sealant if necessary.
- Flush the urinal several times to ensure the flush mechanism is working properly and the bowl is draining completely. Watch for any signs of leaks or improper drainage.
Post-Installation Tips
Proper maintenance will keep your urinal functioning efficiently and looking its best. Regular upkeep can also extend the lifespan of the fixture and prevent costly repairs.
Regular Cleaning
Clean the urinal bowl and exterior regularly with a mild disinfectant cleaner. This will help prevent the buildup of bacteria and calcium deposits. Pay special attention to areas where water and waste are most likely to accumulate.
Inspect for Leaks
Periodically check for leaks around the base, connections, and flush mechanism. Address any leaks promptly to avoid water damage and mold growth. Regular inspections can help you catch small issues before they become major problems.
Flush Valve Maintenance
Clean the flush valve strainer and adjust the flush volume as needed to ensure optimal water flow and prevent clogs. If you notice any issues with the flush mechanism, such as slow refilling or inconsistent water flow, address them immediately.
Waterless Urinals
If you have a waterless urinal, follow the manufacturer’s recommended cleaning and maintenance procedures to ensure proper sanitation and odor control. Replace the cartridges or seals as recommended to maintain efficiency and hygiene.
Conclusion
Installing a urinal is a project that can be completed with careful planning and attention to detail. By following the step-by-step instructions and post-installation tips here, you can enjoy the convenience, water savings, and hygiene benefits a properly installed urinal offers.
If you have any questions or run into any challenges during the installation process, don’t hesitate to consult a professional plumber. They can provide expert advice and assistance to ensure a successful installation.
We hope this comprehensive guide has empowered you to tackle your urinal installation with confidence! If you have any additional tips or experiences to share, feel free to leave a comment below. Let’s continue to learn and improve together.
