So now that you’ve removed the old toilet, you’re ready to prep the area for the new commode.  The biggest potential problem you’re faced with is the mess the old wax ring left behind when you lifted up the old toilet.  This isn’t a problem — just grab a putty knife or five-in-one tool and get to work!  Make sure to scrape the area clean so the new wax ring seats properly on the new toilet.

Yes, that’s our waste stack. And yes, it’s very old. And rusty. But it’s clean!

I know I’ve been saying this the whole time, but you’re really close to wrapping this procedure up - you’ll just have to trust me!

With your toilet’s waste stack clean as a whistle, it’s time to turn the new toilet bowl upside-down on a towel or bathmat (so you don’t scrape/scratch/ding the porcelain) and seat the new wax ring.  Push firmly - but not too firmly - and you’re set.  Now head back over to the waste stack and make sure your bolts are still standing tall.  If not, your toilet kit should have come with new bolts, so install ‘em.

Fitting the wax ring

You’re now ready to lift the bowl back to an upright position (but careful not to get the wax seal all over the floor!) and set it down gently over the bolts and waste stack.  Since you’re now positioned over the waste stack, you can start tightening the nuts and bolt the toilet to the floor.