A five-gallon bucket is crucial for collecting residual water from the old toilet. Also, have a utility knife for trimming bolt caps, rags for cleanup, and consider purchasing a new braided stainless steel supply line for optimal reliability and leak prevention.

The old toilet can be very heavy; always lift with your legs or ask for help to prevent back injury. Be extremely careful not to overtighten the mounting bolts or the tank bolts, as this can easily crack the porcelain fixture. Ensure the water supply is completely off before disconnecting anything to avoid water damage.

While 3 hours is a good estimate for ideal conditions, beginners should allocate more time, perhaps 4-6 hours, to avoid rushing. Rusted bolts, a damaged flange requiring repair, or discovering an uneven floor can significantly extend the project. Always be prepared for unforeseen challenges.

Toilet rocking often indicates an uneven floor or bolts tightened unevenly; use shims to stabilize if the floor is uneven. Leaks typically stem from an improperly seated wax ring, loose supply line connections, or an issue with the tank-to-bowl gasket (if applicable). Retighten connections carefully or inspect the wax ring if a leak persists at the base.