InstallationUpdated July 16, 2026
Standard toilets can be tough for many people to use, especially as we get older or if mobility is limited. That's why a lot of Lombard homeowners ask about comfort-height toilets. These units sit a bit taller, making it noticeably easier to sit down and stand up, no surprise when you consider the range of housing ages and layouts here in town.
Why Comfort-Height Toilets Work Well in Lombard Homes
Comfort-height toilets are usually about 17 to 19 inches from the floor to the top of the seat. That's a couple of inches taller than most standard models, and those extra inches can make a difference for daily use. We see a mix of mid-century ranches, split-levels, and newer builds across the village, so bathroom configurations vary. Still, most bathrooms can accommodate these taller toilets with no trouble.
Lombard is home to many older residents and multi-generational households. A comfort-height toilet reduces knee and back strain for anyone, but it's especially helpful for seniors or those recovering from injury. These units are also compliant with ADA accessibility guidelines, which means they're a smart choice if you're planning ahead.
Planning for a Smooth Upgrade
Before swapping out your toilet, our team checks a few basics to avoid surprises during installation:
- Measure the rough-in: Most Lombard homes use the standard 12-inch rough-in distance from the wall to the flange bolts, but we measure to be sure.
- Inspect the flange: We check that the toilet flange isn't corroded, cracked, or set too high or low. Older homes, especially those with original cast iron piping, might need a flange repair or rebuild.
- Assess the shutoff valve: Mineral buildup from our moderately hard Lake Michigan water can gum up angle stops over time. We recommend testing the shutoff before starting and replacing if it won't close cleanly.
- Check floor condition: Clay-rich soils contribute to occasional moisture and basement seepage here. If there's subfloor damage from past leaks, we'll talk through the fix before installing a new toilet.
If you're planning a bigger bathroom remodel, it makes sense to do fixture upgrades together. For full replacements, including faucets or even shower valves, our bathroom remodeling team can coordinate all the plumbing details.
How We Install Comfort-Height Toilets
We've swapped out toilets in homes from Madison Meadow Park to the western edge of town. The main steps don't change, but we take care to avoid common pitfalls:
- Shut off water and drain the old tank and bowl completely
- Remove the old unit and inspect for flange or wax ring issues
- Replace or repair the flange if corroded, cracked, or set at the wrong height
- Set a new wax ring or a modern gasket seal, then carefully position the new toilet
- Anchor the toilet, level it, and connect the new, flexible supply line
- Check for leaks at the base and the supply connection
If we spot plumbing concerns, like old galvanized supply lines or corroded shutoffs, we'll recommend replacing those parts. Our pipe repair and repiping team can handle upgrades, especially in homes built before the 1970s. For older fixtures, our fixture installation service covers sinks and faucets, so you can update your bathroom all at once.
Common Issues to Watch for During Toilet Installation
- Wobbly toilets: A rocking toilet suggests subfloor rot or an uneven flange. This needs fixing right away to prevent leaks.
- Persistent leaks at the base: Usually a sign the wax ring didn't seal or the flange sits too low.
- Weak flush: Older supply lines can get clogged with mineral scale from Lombard's moderately hard water. Replacing the supply line can fix flow problems.
- Frequent clogging: For homes with cast iron or older sewer stacks, blockages might be further down the line. Our drain cleaning crew can clear out roots or mineral buildup if needed.
Bathrooms in homes built in the 50s and 60s sometimes have tight spaces. We check door swings and clearances to avoid surprises. If your bathroom backs up to a kitchen or laundry room, we also look for signs of shared wet walls, which can complicate fixture swaps.
Other Plumbing Upgrades to Consider
Comfort-height toilets are a quick way to boost bathroom comfort, but a remodel is a good time to address other issues. If you notice leaks, drips, or low water pressure anywhere in the house, our leak detection and repair team pinpoints hidden problems before water damage grows. For homes with unpredictable water temperature, our water heater experts check that your current setup can handle upgraded fixtures, especially if you're also adding low-flow showerheads or extra bathrooms.
We always recommend regular inspections for outdated supply lines and main shutoff valves, especially before any big fixture swap. The high water table and clay-rich soils in Lombard can also cause basement moisture issues. If you spot water on the floor or stains near your toilet, it's best to check that sump pump and waterproofing are up to par.
If you're considering a comfort-height toilet or a full bathroom upgrade, our licensed team handles the job start to finish. Call 331-225-4014 to schedule an estimate or ask our plumbers what's possible in your Lombard home.