Are you the type of person who likes to fix things yourself? Do you enjoy the satisfaction of tackling plumbing problems in your home? If so, then understanding and installing a toilet flange is important to any do-it-yourself project. A toilet flange is essential to any successful plumbing installation, securely connecting toilets and other fixtures to the floor. With a knowledge of how it functions under your belt, little repair tasks can become much simpler for you! Read on to learn about why you need a toilet flange, what it does, and some installation guidelines.
What is a toilet flange, and why do you need one
A toilet flange is a ring that is bolted to the floor around the drain of a toilet. The purpose of the flange is to provide a surface for the bathroom to sit on and to create a seal between the toilet and the drain pipe.
If building your home before 1978, it likely has a clay or cast iron sewer line that connects your house to the city sewer system. If you have one of these older lines, you will need a “jack-knife” flange to connect your new toilet to the old line. If you are unsure whether you have a jack-knife flange, it is best to consult with a plumbing professional.
How to install a new toilet flange
Installing a new toilet flange can be daunting, but with the right tools and instructions, you can do it relatively easily. The first step is to remove the old toilet flange. You can do this by using a screwdriver to loosen the screws that hold the flange in place. Once the screws are loose, you should be able to pull the old flange off of the pipe.
The next step is to measure and cut the new flange to fit onto the pipe. You can do this by using a tape measure to find the circumference of the pipe and then cutting the new flange to match that size. Once it is cut, you can install it onto the pipe by tightening the screws.
You can install the new toilet onto the flange. This is done by placing a wax ring around the toilet’s base and then pressing it on top of the flange. Once it is in place, you can use a wrench to tighten down the bolts that hold it in place.
What to do if your toilet flange is broken or missing
If the toilet flange is broken or missing, you must replace it. The flange sits on top of the drain pipe and seals the connection between the toilet and the drain pipe. A broken or missing flange can cause leaks and other problems.
- Remove the old flange to replace a broken or missing toilet flange.
- Then measure and cut a new piece of PVC pipe to fit over the drain pipe.
- Slip the latest piece of PVC over the drain pipe and attach it to the tee fitting with PVC cement.
- Install a new toilet flange using screws or bolts.
- Be sure to use the plumber’s putty around the outside of the flange to create a watertight seal.
How to fix a leaky toilet flange
A leaky toilet flange can be fixed by replacing the wax seal or gasket between the toilet bowl and the flange. If the damage to the flange is more severe, you may need to replace the entire flange.
To replace the wax seal or gasket:
- Shut off the water supply to the toilet.
- Flush the toilet and hold down the lever until all the water drains from the tank.
- Disconnect and remove the supply line from the underside of the tank.
- Remove the two bolts that secure the tank to the closet bolts in the rear of the bowl.
- Lift on the manual flush valve assembly and remove it from the tank.
- Remove the old wax seal or gasket from around the toilet’s base.
- Clean off any debris or residue left by the old seal.
- Install a new wax seal or gasket and place the manual flush valve assembly back in place.
- Reattach the manual flush valve assembly and secure it to the tank with the two bolts.
- Reconnect the supply line and turn on the water supply.
Test to see if your toilet is still leaking from the flange. If it is, you may need to replace the entire flange.
Tips for keeping your toilet flange in good condition
Here are a few tips for keeping your toilet flange in good condition:
- Make sure you clean the area around the flange regularly and check for any signs of damage or wear.
- If you notice that the flange is damaged or worn, replace it as soon as possible.
- Inspect the seal around the flange regularly, and replace it if necessary.
- Keep the area around the flange clear of any obstructions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a toilet flange is essential to any bathroom and ensures that your plumbing system works properly. If you’re experiencing any issues with your toilet, it’s important to check the flange first to see if there is any damage or if it needs to be replaced. Consult a professional before repairs to ensure the job is done correctly.
