Is Your Toilet Flange Too High? Here’s How To Fix It!

When installing a new toilet, it’s crucial to ensure that the toilet flange is at the correct height. If the toilet flange is too high, it can cause several problems, including leaks, rocking, and difficulty sealing the toilet to the floor. In this blog post, we will explore the signs of a toilet flange that is too high and provide step-by-step instructions on how to fix it.

Signs of a Toilet Flange That Is Too High

• Leaks: A toilet flange that is too high can cause leaks around the base of the toilet. This is because the wax ring that seals the toilet to the floor will not be able to compress properly, creating a gap where water can escape.
• Rocking: A toilet that is not properly sealed to the floor can rock back and forth when you sit on it. This can be a nuisance and can also damage the floor.
• Difficulty Sealing: If the toilet flange is too high, it can be difficult to get a good seal between the toilet and the floor. This can lead to leaks and other problems.

How to Fix a Toilet Flange That Is Too High

If you have determined that your toilet flange is too high, there are a few steps you can take to fix it:

1. Remove the Toilet: The first step is to remove the toilet from the flange. To do this, turn off the water supply to the toilet and flush the toilet to empty the tank. Then, disconnect the water supply line from the toilet. Next, use a wrench to loosen the nuts that hold the toilet to the floor. Once the nuts are loose, carefully lift the toilet off the flange.
2. Remove the Old Wax Ring: Once the toilet is removed, you will need to remove the old wax ring from the flange. To do this, use a putty knife or a screwdriver to carefully pry the wax ring off the flange.
3. Clean the Flange: Once the old wax ring is removed, you will need to clean the flange. Use a wire brush or a scouring pad to remove any dirt or debris from the flange.
4. Apply a New Wax Ring: Apply a new wax ring to the flange. Make sure that the wax ring is centered on the flange and that it is pressed down firmly.
5. Reinstall the Toilet: Carefully lift the toilet back onto the flange. Make sure that the toilet is centered on the flange and that the wax ring is not pinched.
6. Tighten the Nuts: Tighten the nuts that hold the toilet to the floor. Do not overtighten the nuts, as this can damage the toilet or the flange.
7. Turn on the Water Supply: Once the toilet is installed, turn on the water supply and check for leaks. If there are no leaks, your toilet flange is now at the correct height.

Other Causes of Toilet Leaks

In some cases, a toilet leak may not be caused by a toilet flange that is too high. Other potential causes of toilet leaks include:

• A worn-out wax ring: The wax ring that seals the toilet to the floor can wear out over time, causing leaks.
• A cracked toilet bowl: A cracked toilet bowl can also cause leaks.
• A loose water supply line: A loose water supply line can cause leaks at the connection to the toilet.
• A faulty flapper valve: A faulty flapper valve in the toilet tank can cause leaks.

If you have a toilet leak, it is important to identify the cause of the leak and fix it promptly. Ignoring a toilet leak can lead to water damage and other problems.

Summary

If you are experiencing problems with your toilet, such as leaks, rocking, or difficulty sealing, it is important to check the height of the toilet flange. If the toilet flange is too high, it can be fixed by following the steps outlined in this blog post. By ensuring that the toilet flange is at the correct height, you can prevent leaks and other problems and keep your toilet functioning properly.

Top Questions Asked

Q: How high should a toilet flange be?
A: The top of the toilet flange should be flush with the finished floor.

Q: What is the best way to remove a toilet flange?
A: The best way to remove a toilet flange is to use a flange puller.

Q: Can I install a new toilet flange myself?
A: Yes, you can install a new toilet flange yourself. However, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.