It depends entirely on how the toilet was installed and when you can start using it. If the toilet floor had just been constructed or restored with new concrete, it would take a few extra days before you could use the toilet. When you don’t use fast-setting cement, this will take time for the cement to set correctly. On the other hand, if your toilet installation project was merely a simple switch, you will be able to use the restroom immediately — as soon as the installer leaves the room.
We recommend considering the following aspects to gain deeper insight into the topic of “how long after installation can a toilet be used.”
How soon after installation should you use a new toilet?
During the toilet installation procedure, several options could present themselves, including one with silicone or caulk, one with putty, and one with neither. Let’s look at each one individually.
When it is done using silicone or caulk
Curing and drying are the last two steps in the two-stage caulking procedure. Caulk must completely dry before you touch it after application. Even once it has dried, it should not come into contact with water since the curing cycle begins immediately. The caulk will hold water once it has thoroughly dried, which is crucial.
Be cautious about reading and abiding by all instructions because drying times differ depending on the product. They typically last between 30 and 60 minutes. Curing takes a great deal longer. The majority of caulks take up to 24 hours to cure. Some treatments cure in just 3 to 6 hours, such as caulk or silicone, which dries quickly.
Occasionally, you can provide further support to the caulk at the base of the toilet using grout. Let it thoroughly dry if you use grout before using the restroom. If water gets inside of it, it won’t be able to dry correctly, and over time, your bathroom’s base won’t have enough support. You should at least wait after installing the toilet.
How long should silicone dry before fitting a toilet?
Since many different kinds of silicone caulk are available today, this varies depending on the product. Although fast-drying silicone caulk dries more quickly than standard caulk, we advise waiting at least 3 to 6 hours to ensure complete drying. You can use it immediately if you don’t want to sit on it, just like with a toilet that is not in use or sealed with grout or caulk. However, take care not to dampen the area.
How long should grout dry before fitting a toilet?
Given that it is a permanent solution, grout dries more slowly than putty. Again, the curing period will differ based on the grout’s makeup, but 6 to 12 hours, in most cases, should be sufficient. If you need clarification on the suggested drying time, consult the manufacturer’s instructions or a plumber.
Instead of spending a lot of money later trying to correct what you can now, investing a little today is preferable.
In conclusion
After the installation materials dry out, the toilet will be immediately functional once you turn on the water supply. However, to make the installation successful, you must consider each material’s drying period. Ceramic tile installation requires complete curing of the joint paste. Before installing a toilet, it is best to wait for at least 48 but ideally 72 hours after putting tiles.
You should install a toilet and let it dry for at least 6 to 12 hours. If you have grouted or caulked the base, it is best to wait a few hours. Grout requires more time to dry than putty as it is a permanent solution.
