Removing an existing toilet flange can be a tricky and messy project. The good news is that it’s not an overly complicated process, it just takes a bit of time, patience and the right tools.
First, turn off the water supply to the toilet and disconnect the water supply line. This will prevent any water leaking onto your floor. Then flush the toilet and holding down the handle to empty the tank.
Next, you will want to remove the bolts that secure the toilet to the floor. Depending on the size and shape of your toilet, you may need either a flathead screwdriver or an adjustable wrench. Once the bolts are removed, you may be able to lift the toilet off the flange.
If not, use a pry bar the loosen the toilet and lift it away.
Now, you can work on removing the toilet flange. It is likely attached to the floor with screws or nails. Use a power drill or a hammer and screwdriver to remove the nails or screws. Be careful you don’t accidentally damage the flooring.
Once the flange is off the floor, you will also have to remove the wax ring from the toilet drain.
Now, you’re ready to install the new toilet flange. Make sure it fits snugly into the drain hole and is level with the floor. Secure the flange with screws or nails and add a new wax ring to the toilet.
Then, you can put the toilet back on the flange and secure it using the bolts. Finally, turn back on the water supply and flush the toilet to check for any leaks.
Is the toilet flange glued to the pipe?
No, the toilet flange is not normally glued to the pipe. In most cases, the toilet flange is simply placed over the pipe and secured with toilet bolts. The toilet flange is designed to fit tightly against the pipe and create a seal when the toilet is bolted down, so that water from the toilet bowl does not leak out and cause damage.
In rare cases, the toilet flange can be glued to the pipe using PVC cement, if necessary. If the flange does not fit tightly enough against the pipe, caulk or putty can also be used to seal the connection and prevent water from leaking out.
Can you put a new toilet flange over an old one?
Yes, in most cases, you can put a new toilet flange over an old one. The new flange should be the same size and type as the old one and the old one should be in good condition. Before doing so, you need to go through the following steps:
1. Shut off the water supply – Make sure the water supply is completely shut off before removing the old flange.
2. Remove the old flange – To remove the old flange, use a screwdriver to unscrew it from the floor, then pull it off.
3. Clean the area – Once the old flange is removed, clean the area around the drain pipe with a wire brush and water.
4. Install the new flange -Position the new flange over the drain pipe and attach it with screws. Make sure to use the right screws and a screwdriver that is the correct size for the material of the flange.
5. Check for a tight seal – Finally, check to make sure the new flange is securely fixed and there is a tight seal around it.
After completing these steps, you can install the toilet onto the flange.
Do you need a plumber to replace a toilet flange?
Yes, you need a plumber to replace a toilet flange. This repair requires specific knowledge and tools; you may be able to do the repairs by yourself if you have the skills, tools and supplies, but it is not recommended unless you have experience in plumbing repairs.
First, you’ll need to inspect the flange to identify any damage or wear. You may need to replace the flange or make additional repairs. Next, you’ll need to make sure the area around the toilet is clear and free of debris.
This includes removing the flooring and possibly the water closet as well. You will then need to assemble your supplies, including the replacement flange and associated bolts, nuts and washers. Once the area is cleared and the supplies are ready, you may need to use an auger to unclog the drain if necessary.
Finally, the toilet will need to be disconnected and the flange removed. The new flange will then need to be installed in accordance with the manufacturer guidelines, and the toilet re-installed. This can be a challenging job, and if you are not sure of your abilities, it is best to hire a professional plumber.
Do all toilets fit the same flange?
No, not all toilets fit the same flange. Toilets are usually made with a specific type of flange that must match the flange type in the floor for an exact fit. The most common types of flanges are 3-inch or 4-inch closet flanges and both types can be used for residential bathrooms.
If a toilet is to fit properly, the size and shape of the flange must match the flange on the bottom of the toilet. The flanges on the floor typically come in either ABS or PVC, so the toilet must have a compatible flange to fit that material.
Additionally, some older homes may have mortar-style flanges, which must use a special toilet made with an appropriate flange.
Will toilet leak if flange is broken?
Yes, a broken flange can cause a toilet to leak. A toilet flange is a metal or plastic ring that is attached to the bathroom floor and connects the toilet to the drain pipe in the floor. If the flange is broken, the toilet may not seal against the floor, allowing water to seep from the bowl and onto the floor.
Additionally, if a broken flange allows the toilet to rock back and forth, it can cause the wax ring seal to become displaced, leading to an even bigger leak. To prevent this issue, it’s best to inspect the flange and wax ring regularly to ensure they are in good condition.
If it is discovered that the flange is broken or worn out, it should be replaced as soon as possible.
Does a toilet flange sit on the subfloor?
Yes, a toilet flange sits on the subfloor. The flange is attached to the drainpipe below the toilet and connects it to the waste line. The flange is usually made of metal, plastic, or PVC and bolts to the floor.
It is important to properly install the flange since it keeps the toilet secure, prevents leaks, and stops odors from entering the home. The flange should be installed on a solid and level surface, making it important that it is placed on the subfloor.
Proper installation of the flange will ensure a secure and stable fit for the toilet bowl.
How is toilet secured to flange?
Toilets are typically secured to the flange with mounting bolts and washers. The first step is to place the wax seal in the floor flange and then lower the toilet onto the seal. Once the toilet is in position, the tank is secured to the bowl with a number of mounting bolts, typically three or four, using a wrench or socket set.
A plastic or rubber washer should be placed between the tank and the bowl to act as a cushion, and then attached with a nut. Once the nuts are tightened, the toilet is securely mounted to the flange.
Which type of fitting is used to connect a toilet to a waste pipe?
The type of fitting typically used to connect a toilet to a waste pipe is a closet flange. A closet flange is a metal fitting that joins the toilet to a drainage pipe. It has a collar with two or three holes and a channel that is flush with the finished floor.
The collar holds long screws that affix the flange to the floor. The flange then slides over the waste pipe, which is usually made of ABS plastic, cast iron, or PVC. To secure the toilet to the flange, the bolts are passed up through the base of the toilet and nut and washer are added to secure the toilet firmly in place.
Where should a flange fitting be loosened first?
When loosening a flange fitting, it is important to make sure that you loosen it from the outside edges inward. Start loosening the bolts or screws on the outer edges of the flange first, and then loosen the bolts or screws at the center.
Make sure not to loosen them all at once as this can damage the flange or cause it to come loose from the pipe it is connected to. It is also important to make sure that the bolts or screws in the center of the flange are not tightened too much, as this will prevent the flange from being loosened properly.
After loosening all the bolts or screws, use a flathead screwdriver to loosen the flange further.
What is loose flanges?
Loose flanges are components used in piping systems. They are most commonly used at the ends of pipes or valves and create a connection between them. A loose flange consists of a flat plate, typically made from metal such as carbon steel, stainless steel, or aluminum, which has a hole patterned on the surface.
The holes in the flange are used to attach bolts, gaskets, and other necessary pieces. When two pipes or valves are joined using loose flanges, the gasket placed between them creates a tight seal. This seal prevents potential leaks and also creates a secure connection between the two components.
Loose flanges are used in a variety of piping applications, including construction, automotive, petrochemical, and general plumbing. Different types of loose flanges exist to accommodate varying types of piping and connecting materials.
How do you loosen the bolts on a water pump?
In order to loosen the bolts on a water pump, you will need an adjustable wrench. Start by making sure the water pump and the area around it is free of any dirt or debris. Before you get started, you will also want to be sure that the engine is cool, otherwise you could really hurt yourself.
If the bolts are really tight, you may need to use a bit of penetrating oil to help them loosen up. Once you have the adjustable wrench in place, slowly turn it counter clockwise to loosen the bolts.
It is also important to remember to turn them all the same amount, so that the pump is evenly secured. Once all the bolts have been sufficiently loosened, use your hand to remove them gently.
Why is my toilet so tight?
There could be several reasons why your toilet is so tight.
One possibility is that the wax seal was not installed properly when the toilet was first installed. A proper wax seal ensures a tight fit between the toilet and the flange or the floor, depending on the type of toilet being used.
If the seal was not properly installed or was not made of quality materials, the gap between the toilet and the flange or the floor will be larger, leading to a less than secure fit.
Another reason is that the toilet flange may have become damaged or blocked due to corrosion or age. If the flange is not level with the floor or rises out of alignment due to a mineral buildup, this can cause instability between the toilet bowl and the flange.
It is a good idea to check the flange for any damage or blockages before installing a new wax seal.
Finally, if the flange and seal are properly installed and there is no issue with the flange, then it could be that the toilet is too large. If a toilet is too large for the space available, it will be much tighter and more prone to leaks.
How do you unblock a choked toilet?
To unblock a choked toilet, you must first ensure that the water level is low in the toilet bowl. You may have to flush the toilet multiple times to reduce the water level. Once the water level is low enough, you can use a plunger to try unblocking the toilet.
Ensure that you place the plunger firmly over the choked outlet and generate suction by repeatedly pushing and pulling the plunger in a pumping motion. Keep repeating this procedure to create pressure on the outlet and release any item which was clogging the toilet.
If the plunger method doesn’t work, you may need to use a steel toilet snake or auger. This tool is a long wire-like material, which can be pushed into the choked outlet to physically remove the blockage.
You can rent or purchase such tools from a hardware store or online. Once the snake has dislodged the obstruction, flush the toilet to ensure that it is unblocked.
What is the most common cause of flanges bowing?
The most common cause of flanges bowing is improper installation or instability of the flanges. If the flanges are not properly supported, they can become unstable and bow, leading to a leak in the system.
Also, if the flanges are overtightened, it can cause the flanges to bow, resulting in a leak. Lastly, if the area around the flanges is subjected to vibration or heavy loads, these can cause the flanges to bow, resulting in a leak.
In general, it is best to properly support the flanges, ensure they are not overtightened, and keep the area around them free from vibration or heavy loads in order to avoid bowing.