Installing a toilet flange is very easy. Today I am going to show you (one step at a time) the best way to install a toilet flange in your home. But before that let us find out what a toilet flange really is.
What is a Toilet Flange?
A toilet flange is the main piece of a toilet – usually in pipe like shape that links the toilet bowl to the drain system. It is a customized pipe fitting that sits on the floor and which joins the toilet drain to the drain pipe. A toilet flange is sometimes called a closet flange.
To gain a tight seal on the flange, a wax ring is usually used to seal the gaps. Additionally, the closet base is tightened by closet screws. This is a great way to ensure that your toilet flange remains operational for a very long time and doesn’t spill the waste at the base.
How to Install a Toilet Flange
Like I mentioned when we started, installing a toilet flange is very simple. Many people often install one when they are installing a new toilet or if their initial flange is broken. Without a properly installed flange your toilet will leak.
Leakages at the base of the toilet flange are worse than a leaky toilet tank. It will not only leave you with high water bills, but will also leave you with a damaged and filthy toilet floor. Here is an easy step by step DIY guide to installing a toilet.
Step 1: Choose the Best Flange
You should choose a flange that meets your needs. We have to major types of flanges that you could use; the PVC flange and the Cast Iron flange. Often you should replace the same type of flange.
Choosing a different type of flange may force you to change the type of base that you will be using. You will also find out that the sealing may not be as water tight as it was initially. But of more importance choosing the same type of flange that you had before means you get the same size and same functionality as the previous one.
Step 2: Get the Right Tools Ready
To install a toilet flange you will need the right tools. These tools will make your work easier and faster. This is important for any type of DIY house chore that you choose to indulge in. For installing a toilet flange in your good flush toilet, the tools you need will include the following.
- Toilet Flange
- Wax Bowl
- Hacksaw (Optional)
- Screwdriver
- Adjustable Wrench
- Protective Gears (Helmet, Gloves, Work Boots, Overall)
Note: Protective gears are very important contrary to what others may think. These gears will prevent you from any forms of injuries. They will also prevent you from getting dirty and save your clads from getting the chafe.
Step 3: Remove the Old Toilet
If you are fixing a broken flange you must first remove the old toilet. The old toilet sits on the damaged flange. Use your adjustable wrench to unscrew the main bolts holding the toilet to the flange.
Remove the toilet once unscrewed to expose the old broken flange. Remember the old flange is waxed to the toilet so you might require a bit of rocking before your toilet can actually come out. Rock the toilet seat plus flange gently.
You don’t want to be too vigorous as that might easily damage your flange, leave your toilet seat cracked at the bottom and possibly force you to replace the whole toilet set. This will be so expensive.
Step 4: Remove the Old Flange
Scrap of the wax and any other material that’s holding the flange. Remove the flange to expose the drain. Clean up the drain entry to get rid of any stubborn wax. Make sure the entrance is smooth and easy to work with.
A smooth touch while cleaning will allow you to easily get the right seal. You will find all the dirt removed and it will be very easy if you were to apply a new seal and also get the best waxing finish. So take your time to remove all the wax that was there before.
Step 5: Install New Flange
Smooth installation is awesome. It will prevent you from spending more time and help you in enjoying the work that you are doing. Every handy person loves this. To get this you should do the following.
- Make sure the top of the flange is smooth and leveled – this will provide a great seal.
- Put down your toilet flange into the drain pipe.
- Bolt the new flange in place using an adjustable wrench.
- Fix the flange with wax so that it gains a firm grip and keep leakage at bay.
Note: When buying a new flange – for replacement – you should use your old flange as a sample. It is important in ensuring that you get the right type of flange.
Step 6: Put Back Your Toilet
Once your flange is fixed you can go ahead and fix the toilet on top of it. Make sure the toilet is properly aligned on top of the toilet and that you have tightened the screw. The toilet should remain sturdy. The seal between the toilet and the flange should also be water tight.
Additional Tips
You can always take some time to test your flange before you actually replace the toilet. This will help you to identify any forms of leakages that might exist. It will also prevent you from spending so much time removing the toilet seat and working on the toilet flange once again.
If you are working alone you might find this to be tough. I would suggest getting a pal of yours to help. This will make the job simpler and enjoyable.
Conclusion
So don’t sweat the next your toilet flange is broken. You can always fix it alone. Borrow some awesome tips that will make the work even easier from toilet buying guide and keep your toilet at top performance.
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