Proper installation of a toilet flange
A toilet flange, also called a cabinet flange, is located under the toilet. It fixes the toilet to the floor and connects the drain to the pipe. If there is water on the floor around the toilet or the toilet can rock back and forth, the flange is likely broken. The toilet will need to be removed, so a new flange can be installed. Follow these steps to complete the task properly.
Turn off the water
It may seem obvious, but if you’re installing a flange for the first time, you may forget. Flush the toilet and then turn off the water supply. Disconnect the hose that carries water to the toilet.
Know what parts are needed
Make sure you have everything you need. Measure the width of the pipe in the floor so you can buy the right size. Take out the toilet to see how it was installed. Older flanges may be cast iron or steel. They used a wax ring to create a watertight seal. A new wax ring can be purchased, but newer plastic flanges use a rubber ring that expands on the sides of the pipe when adjusted with an Allen wrench.
It is also possible to repair an older flange rather than replace it. To do this, a wrench flange is needed. It bridges the break in the flange. Screws are used to tighten it. If a new floor has been installed and is higher than before, there are extensions to bring the flange to the proper height.
Correct positioning of the flange
Do not tighten the flange until it is properly positioned. The bolts will slide into the flange and protrude upward. They must be in the correct position to fit into the toilet. They protrude through the holes on each side of the toilet. Once the toilet is in place, tighten the washers to finish the job. Tighten them enough so that the toilet does not move, but not too tight. If they are tightened too much, the porcelain may crack.
With the proper knowledge and parts, installing a toilet flange should not be difficult. You can do this job on your own, but toilets are heavy. It can’t hurt to have someone to help. Be prepared for surprises: There could be mold under the toilet, and scraping off the old wax ring can be messy.
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