At some point in time, you’ll need to replace your toilets. Whether because of wear and tear issues or because you simply want to renovate a bathroom, you may need to head to a home improvement store to pick out a new toilet, or learn how to unblock a drain outside.

But how do you get the right replacement toilet when the time comes? Your first order of business is to take and to record accurate measurements. The last thing you’ll want to do is buy a new toilet that doesn’t fit the space intended for it in your home.

Here’s a look at 3 measurements you need to get right if you want your new toilet to fit perfectly.

Height of Tank

You’ll need to measure the height of the tank. In order to do so, take a tape measure and measure from the floor in your bathroom to the top of your tank. The top of your tank refers to the top of the lid covering your tank. Once you get the measurement, jot it down on a piece of paper. One thing to keep in mind is that you could get a taller tank if there are no obstructions that would jeopardize this plan. So when you require the measurement for the height of the tank, you could potentially make a note detailing the maximum height your bathroom can accommodate.

Depth of Toilet

Do you currently have an oval toilet bowl or a round toilet bowl? On the one hand, round bowls and toilet seats are more compact and are especially useful in smaller bathrooms. On the other hand, oval bowls and seats have more surface area and are, therefore, more comfortable. Whichever type of bowl and seat you have at present, you will measure them using the same method to find out the toilet depth.

Here’s what to do:

1. Take your tape measure and determine the distance from the back of the toilet tank to the front edge of your toilet bowl. 
2. Depending on how much room you have for a toilet in your bathroom, you could either buy a new toilet that more or less matches the depth of your existing toilet or find one that has a shorter length.

Rough-in Considerations

Take your tape measure and measure the distance from the wall behind your toilet tank to the center of the bolt caps. In instances where there are four bolt caps fastening your toilet to the bathroom floor, measure up to the pair of bolt caps at the rear.

Head to Home Improvement Shop

After you’ve recorded the measurements you’ll need, head to a retailer with measurements in hand. You’ll find it a lot easier to find a new toilet that will fit both the space and the rough-in section in your bathroom.

DIY or Hire a Licensed Plumber?

While some DIY types put in their own toilets, it’s important that you honestly assess your skillset before taking on such a project. Improper installation can lead to leaks that can cause serious problems. It can be well worth your while to hire a licensed plumber who will ensure the job is done the right way the first time around.