Many people are surprised when they find out how easy replacing a toilet can really be and that most people would be comfortable doing it on their own with the right tools. To begin with, you'll need a new toilet and all the hardware necessary to install it. You will also need plumber's putty a wax ring and even a flange extender in some cases. You'll also need some wrenches, a screwdriver, hacksaw, some pliers and a putty knife. It should take about three hours for the average person to remove an old toilet and install a new one.

First you want to shut off the water so that you don't have a big mess when you have removed the toilet. Flush the toilet after the water is off and drain all the water from the bowl and tank. You will need to remove the bolts that hold the toilet to the floor and disconnect the water supply line to the toilet. Sometimes these bolts are rusted and if you cannot loosen them with some oil, it may be necessary to cut them off with a hacksaw.

When you have removed the old toilet, clean where the toilet will sit and make sure that you let things dry thoroughly before installing the new one. Take the new toilet out of the box and carefully place it upside down on the floor. You'll want to be careful because the toilet is likely porcelain and could break if not handled carefully. Put plumbers putty around the edge of the toilet base and attach the wax ring over the toilet opening.

Then put the toilet upright again and put it on the closet flange. You want to make sure that they bolts align with the holes in the toilet so you don't have to shuffle or move the toilet too much. When the bowl is in place, push it down firmly with both hands to set it. Then put a washer on each bolt and begin tightening them. You want to make sure that you don't tighten the bolts too much or you will crack the base of the bowl and have wasted a new toilet and a lot of time. Once the bowl is secure, follow the directions for placing the tank and you will soon be enjoying a new toilet.

Replacing a vanity is also a very important task to undertake when you are remodeling your bathroom. In general the vanity is more difficult to install than a toilet unless you have the right tools and some experience with plumbing. Vanities generally require using more parts and tools and will also require more joints be made in the pipes. Generally, you want the new vanity to be the same size or dimensions of the one you are replacing. This will make it easier to make sure the plumbing fits and that the vanity will look right in the space. If you are making a change in where the vanity is located or how many sinks are in the vanity, which requires moving plumbing, you should probably contact a professional plumber. Choose a vanity or sink that will work well in the bathroom and with your new décor you plan on having in the bathroom.