Omar Khalid
Installing a plastic toilet flange is a manageable DIY project that can help stabilize a wobbly toilet and prevent water damage to your bathroom floor. The flange, also known as a closet flange, is the part of the toilet that secures the unit to the floor and connects to the drain pipe. It is important to install the flange at the correct height to prevent leaks. The correct height for a toilet flange is about 1/4 inch above a finished floor. If the flange is too low, you can use a flange extension kit or spacers to raise it to the proper height. If the flange is too high, you can cut it down using a hacksaw. Once the flange is at the correct height, you can secure it in place with bolts and washers.
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What You'll Learn
The correct height for a toilet flange is about 1/4 inch above the floor
Installing a toilet properly is critical to prevent leaks. The toilet flange, also known as a closet flange, is the part of the toilet that secures the unit to the floor and connects to the drain pipe. The correct height for a toilet flange is about a quarter of an inch above the floor, which should be finished. The flange should not be level with the floor or sit below it, as this can cause leaks.
To achieve the correct height, you can use a flange extension kit to raise the flange to the proper height. Another option is to stack multiple wax rings to achieve the right height and then set the flange into the lowest ring. Wax rings can accommodate a range of height differentials, so this method can be effective.
If the flange is too high, you can cut it down, possibly with a hacksaw. After cutting it to the proper height, ensure there is a secure seal between the flange and the toilet. If the flange is simply misaligned, remove the toilet flange and install a new one with proper alignment. If you have never done this before, or the flange height is too high or too low, it is best to call a professional to ensure everything is installed properly.
The choice of toilet flange depends on the material of the DWV pipe it is connected to. If you have a PVC pipe connection, you should install a PVC closet flange. A cast-iron connection will require a cast-iron toilet flange. When installing a PVC flange, you will not need to use an adhesive. However, if you are installing or repairing a toilet flange, use rust-proof screws.
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Turn off the water supply to the toilet
Before installing a plastic toilet flange, you must turn off the water supply to the toilet. Here is a step-by-step guide:
Locate the Shutoff Valve
The first step is to find the shutoff valve behind your toilet. It is usually an oval or football-shaped valve connected to a pipe or hose attached to the bottom of the tank. It could also be on the wall behind the unit, closer to the floor.
Turn the Valve Clockwise
Once you have located the valve, turn it clockwise as far as it will go. This will shut off the water supply to the toilet. If the valve is difficult to turn, try applying some WD-40 and let it sit for about 10 minutes. If the valve is frozen or broken, you may need to cut off the main water supply to your home.
Test the Water Supply
After turning the valve, test if the water supply is indeed turned off by flushing your toilet. If the water supply is off, the water in the back tank will empty into the bowl and will not refill. You can also lift the float lever in the tank to check. If the water is still on, quickly push the lever back up to prevent the tank from overflowing.
Turn the Water Back On
When you are done with your work, simply turn the valve counterclockwise to turn the water supply back on.
Remember, if you have an older toilet without a shutoff valve, you may need to cut off the main water supply to your home or use the wooden board method.
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Use a flange repair ring to reinstall the toilet
If your toilet is rocking, it could be because your toilet flange is broken or deteriorating. A broken flange will cause the toilet to move because it is no longer secured to the flange, which is anchored to the subfloor. The constant rocking will likely break the wax seal, allowing water to leak onto the substrate and the ceiling below when the toilet is flushed.
If only the flange is broken, you can use a flange repair ring, like Oatey's Fix-It Flange Repair Ring, to securely reinstall the toilet. The ring can be installed above the broken toilet flange with four screws and silicone sealant. This is a quicker method than replacing the flange, as you don't need to remove the existing flange and plumbing connection. However, if the flange is cracked beyond repair, you will need to remove and replace it.
To use a flange repair ring, first, inspect the toilet flange for any cracks or decay. If the drain section of the flange is damaged, a licensed plumber will be needed to completely replace the old flange. Flange selection depends on the type and size of pipe it is being connected to, as well as other variables. For example, if you have a PVC pipe connection, you should install a PVC closet flange.
Next, follow the manufacturer's instructions for installing the repair ring. Place the repair ring down into the desired location for correct bolt alignment and secure the repair ring to the subfloor using appropriate screws and anchors. Wipe off any excess silicone and allow time to cure.
Then, place a new wax ring seal on top of the repair ring, ensuring it is centred. Reinstall the toilet by using the bolts that connect the toilet to the floor as a guide. Make sure you hold the toilet as level as possible when placing it onto the new wax seal. The toilet tank should be parallel to the wall behind it.
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Choose the right type of flange for your situation
When installing a toilet flange, it's important to select the right type for your specific situation. The type of flange you need depends on the material of the drain, waste, and vent (DWV) pipe it is connected to.
If you have a PVC pipe connection, you should install a PVC closet flange. PVC flanges are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, easy to install, and affordable, making them a popular choice for modern homes. They are usually gasket-sealed and do not require adhesive.
For a cast-iron connection, you will need a durable and long-lasting cast iron flange. Some older homes may have a lead bend, requiring a brass closet flange and a more traditional connection method. Brass flanges are sturdy and corrosion-resistant, making them ideal for areas with high moisture.
If you are installing the flange onto a concrete or wooden subfloor, you will need to screw the flange into the subfloor through the drain pipe. The flange should be installed on top of the finished floor to prevent leaks. The ideal height for a toilet flange is about 1/4 inch above the floor.
If your flange is damaged but does not need to be completely replaced, you can use a flange repair kit or ring. These are installed above the broken flange to provide a stable base for the toilet.
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Use rust-proof screws to install or repair a toilet flange
The toilet flange, also known as a closet flange, is the part of the toilet that secures the unit to the floor and connects to the drain pipe. It is usually made of PVC, rubber, or metal and is circular in shape.
When installing or repairing a toilet flange, it is important to use rust-proof screws. This is because the flange is anchored to the subfloor with these screws, keeping it stable and free from movement. Using drywall screws is not recommended as they will deteriorate over time if they come into contact with water. This can cause movement, damage to the flange, and compromise the pipe connection.
If you are installing spacers on top of a PVC toilet flange, you will need to solvent weld it together. Alternatively, you can use 100% silicone sealant to ensure a watertight seal between the two layers.
To repair a broken toilet flange, you can use a flange repair ring. This can be installed above the broken flange with four screws and silicone sealant. This method is faster than a complete replacement as you do not need to remove the existing flange and plumbing connection. However, if the flange is cracked beyond repair, it will need to be replaced.
The correct height for a toilet flange is about 1/4 inch above the finished floor. Installing it level with or below the floor can lead to leaks.
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Frequently asked questions
The correct height for a toilet flange is about 1/4 inch above a finished floor. The flange should not be level with or below the floor, as this can cause leaks.
The type of toilet flange you use depends on the material of the pipe it is connected to. If you have a PVC pipe connection, you should install a PVC closet flange. A cast-iron connection will require a cast-iron toilet flange, and a brass closet flange is needed for a lead bend.
First, turn off the water supply to the toilet and drain the remaining water from the tank. Remove the old flange by gently rocking the toilet bowl side to side to break the wax seal, then lift the bowl and lay it on its side. Scrape away the old wax from the bottom of the toilet and base of the flange, then remove the mounting bolts and screws. Place the new flange in the drain pipe and insert the mounting bolts. If required, carefully apply glue to the bottom of the flange and the inside of the pipe. Set the toilet straight down on top of the flange, lining up the holes in the toilet base with the bolts.
![Danco 88904 Toilet Flange Repair Ring, Steel, [Finish]<, For Use With 1/4 in or 5/16 in Closet Bolts](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61pR-8dbmkS._AC_UL320_.jpg)
