New toilet seat options can enhance your bathroom

Q. Your column has taught me a lot about plumbing. My new project is to change out my very old toilet seat that is falling apart. As per your advice in past columns, I’m doing my research before I start the job. Since my current toilet seat is old and basic, what new features and options should I look for in a toilet seat?

A. The first thing — even before I go into my recommendations for a new toilet seat — is to make sure you purchase the correct seat for your present toilet. Get the make and model, and take a few photos of your toilet to take with you when you go to the supply house.

This can help you match the correct bowl style and color you will need for the new seat. Once you determine the color and style, here are three toilet seat options you can look into:

타 Upgrade to a “solid plastic” impact-resistant seat with built in curves for extra comfort.

타 New “slow close” technology can prevent the seat from slamming down on the bowl. Many of these quiet-closing seats come with a “quick hinge release” feature for easy cleaning.

타 On the underside of the seat look for “grip tight rubber bumpers” that can help stop the toilet seat from sliding on the bowl.

Bottom line: A good toilet seat with a few options can be a great asset for your bathroom.

타 Master plumber Ed Del Grande is the author of “Ed Del Grande’s House Call” and hosts TV and Internet shows. Visit eddelgrande.com or write eddelgrande@cs.com. Always consult local contractors and codes.

Scripps Howard News Service