Toilet Seat Screw Sizes: One Size Fits All?

Toilet seats come in different sizes and shapes, and it is important to measure your toilet bowl before buying a new seat to ensure a proper fit. The standard distance between the fixing holes where the screws go is 155mm or 5.5 inches, but it is always worth checking. The width of the toilet bowl at its widest point and the length from the front of the bowl to the seat-fixing holes are also important measurements to take into account.

Toilet seats also come in different shapes, with oval being the most common, but square and D-shaped seats are also available. The shape of the toilet bowl will determine the shape of the seat, with round bowls requiring a round seat and elongated bowls needing an elongated seat.

Toilet seat screws are usually included with the seat and are designed to fit standard-sized fixing holes. However, if you need to replace the screws, universal toilet seat hinge bolts are available that should fit most toilet seats.

What is the standard bolt spread for toilet seats?

The standard bolt spread for toilet seats is 5.5 inches, measured from the centre of one bolt hole to the other. This is the same for both round and elongated toilet seats. Round toilet seats are typically 16 to 16.5 inches long, while elongated toilet seats are 18 to 18.5 inches long.

To measure the bolt spread, find the bolts at the back of the seat that secure it to the bowl. Then, using a measuring tape, measure the distance between the bolts. It's important to hold the measuring tape in line with the centres of the bolts for an accurate measurement.

In addition to the bolt spread, you may also want to measure the width of the toilet bowl and the length of the bowl from the bolts to the outer edge of the front of the bowl. The width of the bowl is usually standard, but there may be slight variations among brands. The length of the bowl will help determine whether you need a round or elongated seat.

If you're buying a specialty seat, such as a raised or heated toilet seat, you'll also need to measure the distance between the bolt holes and the tank to ensure proper clearance.

It's worth noting that while most toilet seats have standard sizes, there are some non-standard toilet seats on the market. These may have different bolt spreads, so it's always a good idea to measure before purchasing a new toilet seat.

What are toilet seat hinges?

Toilet seat hinges are the mechanical parts that raise and lower the rim and cover of the toilet seat. They are attached to the toilet bowl via bolts, screws, and nuts. Hinges are constructed of plastic or metal, with the latter including stainless steel, zinc, brass, and chrome. Hinges can be purchased in a variety of colours, including white, black, silver, and gold.

Toilet seat hinges come in two varieties: top mount and vertical mount. Top mount hinges are the most common type, and they attach to the top of the toilet bowl. Vertical mount hinges, on the other hand, attach to the back of the bowl.

When replacing a toilet seat, it is important to measure the distance between the bolts where the seat attaches to the bowl, as this can vary. The standard measurement is 5 1/2 inches. Additionally, the width and length of the bowl should be measured to ensure the new seat is the correct size.

Toilet seat hinges can be purchased as part of a new toilet seat or separately as replacement parts. Replacement hinges are available in universal sizes that fit most toilet seats. When choosing a replacement hinge, it is important to select one that matches the material and colour of the existing toilet seat.

How do you measure a toilet seat?

To measure a toilet seat, you will need to take three key measurements.

Firstly, find the bolts where the seat attaches to the bowl and measure the distance between them. The standard measurement for this is 5 1/2 inches, but it's worth checking as older toilets may differ.

Next, measure the width of the bowl at its widest point. Place your measuring tape on the outside of the brim for an accurate dimension.

Finally, measure the length of the bowl from between the seat bolts to the outer edge of the front of the bowl. A round bowl should measure about 16 1/2 inches, and an elongated bowl should be 18 to 18 1/2 inches.

With these measurements, you can determine whether your toilet is round or elongated, and purchase the corresponding seat shape.

How do you remove an old toilet seat?

How to Remove an Old Toilet Seat

Step 1: Prepare the Workspace

Before starting, put on protective gloves. Toilet seats can be dirty, and gloves will protect your hands from germs. Next, clean the old seat, as well as the toilet bowl and rim. This will make the workspace more pleasant and help to prevent the spread of germs.

Step 2: Gather Your Tools

You will need a standard wrench, a screwdriver, and some rust penetrant. You may also need pliers, a small hacksaw, and a flathead or star screwdriver. Have some duct tape and a plastic bag ready, too.

Step 3: Loosen the Nuts and Bolts

At the back of the bowl, locate the seat bolts and the nuts that attach to them. Pop off any bolt covers, using a screwdriver if necessary. If the bolts are rusty or badly calcified, spray them with rust penetrant and let it sit for five to ten minutes. Try loosening the bolts again. If they are still stubborn, you may need to use a small hacksaw to cut them off.

Step 4: Remove the Bolts and Lift the Seat

Loosen the nuts from the bolts by hand or with an adjustable wrench, turning counterclockwise. Remove the nuts from the bolts and washers, if they’re also attached. Then, remove the bolts and lift the old seat and its hinges from the toilet.

Step 5: Dispose of the Old Seat

Place the old toilet seat in a plastic bag and dispose of it properly.

How do you attach a new toilet seat?

Attaching a new toilet seat is a simple DIY task that can be completed in a few minutes. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to attach a new toilet seat:

Step 1: Identify your toilet type

The two common toilet types are round and extended. Round toilet seats are standard-sized and have a curved shape, while extended seats are more oval-shaped and elongated. Identify the type of toilet you have to purchase the correct size and shape of the new seat.

Step 2: Choose a matching lid

It is essential to choose a lid that matches the colour and style of your toilet. Ensure that the colour of the new seat complements the toilet bowl, usually white, for a classic look or choose a contrasting colour like blue or wooden for a bolder statement.

Step 3: Purchase the new toilet seat

Once you have identified the type and colour of the toilet seat you need, purchase it from a home supply store or online. The new seat should include all the necessary mounting hardware, such as bolts, nuts, and washers.

Step 4: Remove the old toilet seat

Before removing the old toilet seat, clean the toilet bowl and rim. Locate the seat bolts and nuts that secure the seat to the bowl. Pop off the bolt covers, if necessary, using a screwdriver. Loosen the nuts from the bolts by turning them counterclockwise with your hand or an adjustable wrench. Remove the nuts, washers, and bolts, and lift off the old seat and its hinges.

Step 5: Position the new toilet seat

Place the new toilet seat lid on the rim, aligning the new seat hinges over the holes for the bolts. Use a level to confirm that the seat is even.

Step 6: Attach the new toilet seat

Feed the bolts through the holes in each hinge and the toilet bowl, with the head of the bolt on top. Attach the nuts to the other end of the bolts and tighten them clockwise by hand, and then with a wrench to ensure a firm connection. If your hardware includes washers, place them on the bolts before attaching the nuts. If the hinges have plastic covers, snap them into place.

Step 7: Test the new toilet seat

Open and close the lid and jiggle the seat to confirm that it is securely attached.

Frequently asked questions