How To Replace A Toilet Flange In 5 Easy Steps!
What To Know
- Before you begin, be sure to turn off the water supply to the toilet and flush the toilet to empty the tank and bowl.
- Remove the flange and measure the distance from the center of the flange to the wall.
- A gurgling sound when flushing the toilet can be a sign of a clogged or damaged flange.
Toilet flange replacement is a common plumbing repair that can be easily tackled by DIYers. A damaged or worn-out flange can lead to a leaky toilet, which can waste water and cause significant damage to your flooring. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to replace a toilet flange, ensuring a secure and leak-free toilet installation.
Materials You’ll Need
- New toilet flange
- Wax ring
- Toilet bowl
- Adjustable wrench
- Hacksaw or reciprocating saw
- Measuring tape
- Pencil
- Utility knife
- Caulk gun
- Silicone caulk
Safety Precautions
Before you begin, be sure to turn off the water supply to the toilet and flush the toilet to empty the tank and bowl. Wear gloves and eye protection to prevent contact with sewage.
Step 1: Remove the Toilet
- Loosen the nuts that secure the toilet to the flange using an adjustable wrench.
- Carefully lift the toilet straight up and set it aside in a safe location.
- Clean the floor around the flange to remove any debris or old wax ring residue.
Step 2: Cut the Old Flange
- Using a hacksaw or reciprocating saw, carefully cut the old flange around its perimeter.
- Be cautious not to damage the subfloor or any nearby pipes.
- Remove the old flange and any remaining debris from the floor.
Step 3: Measure and Mark the New Flange
- Place the new flange on the floor and align it with the existing hole.
- Use a pencil to mark the outline of the flange on the floor.
- Remove the flange and measure the distance from the center of the flange to the wall.
- Transfer this measurement to the floor and mark the center point of the flange.
Step 4: Apply Wax Ring
- Remove the backing from the wax ring and place it on the bottom of the flange.
- Align the wax ring with the center point you marked on the floor.
Step 5: Install the New Flange
- Place the new flange over the wax ring and align it with the holes in the floor.
- Secure the flange to the floor using the bolts and nuts provided.
- Tighten the bolts until the flange is firmly in place.
Step 6: Reinstall the Toilet
- Carefully lift the toilet bowl and place it on the new flange.
- Align the holes in the toilet base with the bolts on the flange.
- Secure the toilet to the flange using the nuts and tighten them until the toilet is stable.
Step 7: Seal the Toilet Base
- Apply a bead of silicone caulk around the base of the toilet where it meets the floor.
- Smooth the caulk with your finger or a caulk tool.
Troubleshooting Common Flange Problems
- Leaking toilet: If you notice water leaking from the base of the toilet, it could indicate a damaged or improperly installed flange.
- Loose toilet: A loose toilet can be caused by a worn-out or broken flange.
- Gurgling sounds: A gurgling sound when flushing the toilet can be a sign of a clogged or damaged flange.
Top Questions Asked
Q1: How often should I replace my toilet flange?
A: It’s generally recommended to replace the toilet flange every 20-25 years or when it shows signs of damage.
Q2: Can I use a flange extender instead of replacing the entire flange?
A: Flange extenders can be used in some cases, but they are not a permanent solution. It’s generally better to replace the entire flange for a secure and leak-free installation.
Q3: What type of caulk should I use to seal the toilet base?
A: Use a high-quality silicone caulk specifically designed for plumbing applications.
