How Much Does A Standard Toilet Weigh?

Like everything else in our homes, the toilet will likely require a replacement at some point. So, when it comes time to replace it, there are a few things you’ll need to consider. While it’s easy to get caught up in other aspects of replacing a toilet (how long it’ll take, what type you need for replacement, etc.), it’s essential to consider how you’ll maneuver it in and out of the bathroom.

Since moving toilets into a new home or an older home to replace a broken model isn’t something most folks do regularly, many people have little to no idea how much a toilet weighs. So, if you’re replacing an old toilet (or bringing a new one into a full-blown bathroom remodel), here’s what you need to know about the toilet’s weight and who you’ll need to move it. 

How Much Does A Standard Porcelain Toilet Weigh?

On average, a standard porcelain toilet can weigh anywhere from 50 to 120 pounds. The exact weight hinges on the particular toilet, as there are a few different kinds. For example, a two-piece toilet weighs anywhere from 50 to 100 pounds, whereas a standard one-piece toilet weighs anywhere from 60 to 120 pounds.

It’s important to note that these weights are based on a dry model. This means there aren’t any additional parts, and the toilet’s tank doesn’t contain any water. Once you add the water, lid, and seat, the toilet weighs about 20 pounds heavier, as these components add a significant amount of weight to the unit. 

Of course, when you remove a toilet from a bathroom, there shouldn’t be any water in the tank, which takes this component out of the equation. On top of that, removing the lid and seat can make things somewhat more manageable as you work through the removal process, which will eliminate this factor affecting the weight as well. 

Types Of Toilets

There are two primary types of toilets: one-piece and two-piece. While things can get more complicated if you start considering the weights of different flushing mechanisms, we’ll keep our focus on these two main types. 

There isn’t much difference in sizing between these two types, but pricing can vary quite a bit. 

One-Piece Toilets

As the name implies, single-piece toilets come as one continuous unit. Unlike their two-piece counterpart, these toilets feature the tank and bowl as one fused-together unit. In this particular toilet, there aren’t any joints.

One-piece toilets are usually slightly heavier than two-piece toilets, as they use more porcelain than the latter. In the grand scheme of things, the weight difference is usually relatively minor, but it can be drastic in specific model comparisons (such as a compact vs. comfort height model). 

Since these toilets come as one continuous piece, installation, and removal are much more straightforward. You don’t need to connect the tank to the bowl, so the installation process usually goes much faster than with a two-piece toilet. 

However, these toilets tend to be somewhat pricier than the two-part option, so expect to pay more for the unit if you decide to go with a one-piece model. 

Two-Piece Toilets

On the other hand, a two-piece toilet features two separate components. These toilets are standard in the U.S., considerably more so than their one-piece comrade. With this type of toilet, you’ll find a joint fitting that secures the tank and toilet while keeping them separate from one another. 

While single-piece toilets are easy to install, two-piece toilets are a bit more complex. The complexity during installation comes from the extra step of connecting the tank to the bowl. Although it isn’t overly difficult, it might complicate the process for inexperienced installers and DIYers.

Two-piece toilets tend to be cheaper than one-piece toilets, but you might end up paying more for professional installation than you would for a single-piece toilet. 

Other Considerations

Aside from the two-piece and one-piece aspect of the matter, you also need to consider what type of toilet you have. For example, a comfort-height toilet usually weighs more than a compact toilet, as they’re larger than the latter.

In addition, not all porcelain is made from the same clay, so the weight of your toilet might vary based on this factor. Other features, like a hardwood toilet seat or diverse materials (steel or plastic), can affect the weight of your toilet.

Aside from these factors, each brand uses a different manufacturing process to create its toilets. While these processes might not make a significant difference in the total weight of the toilet, they can affect the final weight to some degree. 

Can One Person Lift A Toilet?

The answer to this question varies from person to person. However, since that isn’t a helpful answer, we can offer some general information. On average, most individuals can lift around 150 pounds of dead weight (may be different for men versus women). Of course, this isn’t the same for every individual, but let’s use this for reference. 

Given the weight of a typical toilet (50 to 120 pounds), the answer is yes – one person could hypothetically lift a toilet. However, the weight factor is only part of the picture. Aside from the sheer weight of the toilet, you’ll need to consider the shape. 

Toilets aren’t exactly a convenient shape for easy carrying. Instead, they’re an awkward shape that makes it tricky for one person to carry. So, combine the awkward shape of the toilet with the potential heft, and you get a dicey situation. 

To avoid a potentially shattered toilet or injuries to your vulnerably-located feet, we recommend enlisting the help of a friend. While you might be able to lift the toilet’s weight without an issue, the clunky shape can create a potentially hazardous situation. 

Now, if you decide to install a two-piece toilet, the process is usually much easier, as you can remove the tank from the bowl. If you feel comfortable doing so, you can always handle the entire process, whether you have a single-piece model or a two-piece toilet. 

However, if you have any doubts about whether you can cart it from its current location to your bathroom, it’s best to wait until you have an extra set of hands. Or, pass the process to a professional and skip the stress of installation altogether. It’s up to you!

How Can You Easily Lift A Toilet?

While you can certainly just pick the toilet up with your hands, you might find it easier to use a tool for lifting and transporting your toilet. A hand truck (also referred to as a dolly) or wheelbarrow can simplify this process, as you won’t need to carefully balance its weight in your arms as you haul it to another area.

If you decide to use a wheelbarrow and need to move the toilet over bumpy ground, it doesn’t hurt to lay a towel or blanket in the bottom of the wheelbarrow before moving it. This way, the toilet won’t jostle around and potentially sustain damage if it bumps into the side of the wheelbarrow. 

Using a hand truck or wheelbarrow can relieve the stress on your back of carrying the toilet, so it doesn’t hurt to pass the process to one of these handy tools.