Having a toilet is a must-have facility in every modern home, and its installation has to be done correctly if you want to use it safely and for a long time.
Installing a toilet is not a complicated process, but it requires a certain precision and some plumbing skills.
The toilet flange is the critical component when installing a new toilet or replacing the old one. It represents the fitting that connects the toilet to the drain pipe, which is a critical process. If installed improperly, it will surely cause problems.
A toilet without a secure flange can leak, wobble, or even crack! So, here’s a guide to how to install a toilet flange the right way!
What is a Toilet Flange?
Simply put, the toilet flange is a ring made of metal or plastic that links the toilet to the floor. This pipe fitting that attaches the toilet to the drainage system is a component that you can’t skip if you want your toilet to be securely connected to the floor.
This component is installed above the floor. It must stay stable since it’s supposed to keep the toilet from swaying and water from leaking. In other words, it is a fundamental step in installing a toilet.
Prepare for Installation
Before you begin installing the toilet flange, you’ll need to prepare well for the job to avoid issues during the process. You’ll want all your needed tools to be at hand so that everything goes smoothly.
The tools you’ll need for the toilet flange installation are a bowl wax ring, a pair of latex gloves, a putty knife, a screwdriver, some T bolts, a tape measure, a toilet flange, a trash bag, and a wrench.
Once you’ve gathered all the tools you’ll need, you want to turn off the water supply and are ready for action.
Select the Right Flange and Wax Ring
Selecting the right flange and wax ring is another crucial step you don’t want to mess up. You might get confused due to the many types of flanges and wax rings offered on the market, but you’ll need only one.
The key to preventing leak paths is the proper flange height. You’ll want to take careful notes of the size of the drain pipe.
The flange you’re going to get has to match this pipe. You can take the original flange to the store with you or measure the diameter of the drain pipe if possible.
Position the Flange
The next step is to position the toilet flange in the drain pipe using the T-bolts as reference points. Ensuring both bolts are at equal distances from the back wall is essential. This ensures that the wall will be parallel to the toilet tank.
Also, the bolts have to slip into the flange, pointing up. Next, rotate the flange until you’ve reached the desired position. Ensure that the top of the flange is flat and gives a good seal of the wax ring.
Secure the Flange to the Floor
Using a Tapcon anchor or another sort of masonry screw, fasten the toilet flange to the floor. The four holes need to be at an equal distance around the ring.
Keep in mind that if you’re using a plastic ring, you should pay attention not to crack it by screwing the anchors too deep.
Test the Flange Stability
Once the flange is in place, you can now proceed with the new wax ring to install the toilet. It’s crucial to test the flange’s stability before proceeding to this step, though.
You should ensure the top of the flange is flat to ensure a good seal of the wax ring.
Install the Wax Ring and Toilet
Wax rings are usually adhesive, which helps with proper sealing that prevents water leakage.
The best practice is to press the wax ring into the bottom of the toilet and then press the toilet onto the flange. The wax ring should sit evenly with the tile around the toilet.
To create a good seal with the wax ring, use pressure in a straight, downward movement when placing the toilet on top.
Secure the Toilet
After you’ve finished with the steps above, don’t move the toilet anymore. You’ll now want to bolt the toilet into place and tighten it but make sure you don’t push too hard to prevent the porcelain from cracking. Securing the toilet is a step you mustn’t forget!
Test for Leaks
Once you’re done with the more difficult jobs, it’s time to test what you’ve accomplished by testing for leaks. You’ll want to reconnect the water line and turn on the water.
If there are any leaks, this most likely means that the wax ring isn’t sealed properly. In this case, you’ll either have to install a new wax ring or contact a professional plumber for help.
Finishing Touches and Cleanup
If everything looks like working seamlessly, you’ve done a great job and successfully installed a toilet flange.
You should definitely be proud of yourself for acquiring some new useful skills. All that’s left to do is to put away your tools, clean up your working area, and you’re done!
Conclusion
While installing a toilet flange is not rocket science, many people prefer using the services of a qualified plumber.
This isn’t surprising because it is a dirty task to do on your own, and you’ll need all the necessary tools and some plumbing skills.
But if you want to learn new skills, there you have it – a complete guide to installing a toilet flange all by yourself.
