How to Install a Toilet Flange

Finding out how to install toilet flange is a very simple project, however it will require physical strength and the right tools. The flange is simply the piece of pipe which connects your toilet to the waste pipe. If you are installing a new toilet then you will need to install a toilet flange. You will also need to install a toilet flange if your current flange is broken or damaged. As long as the right tools and materials are on hand completing this project should only take a couple of hours.

Step 1 - Preparation

In order to do a good job at anything preparation is a must. It's essential that you spend time preparing so that everything lines up. If your toilet is installed without a flange or it isn't fitted correctly then this can cause your toilet to leak.

This will not only be unpleasant, but it will also cause damage to your home if left untreated for a long period of time. Leaking toilets can also be very smelly and are hardly ever something that you will be proud about. Finding out how to fix this problem quickly will save you a lot of embarrassment.

Step 2 - Removing the Toilet

Before you can install a new toilet flange you must first remove the toilet, this is because the toilet will be sealed into it's existing flange. Undo the 2 bolts holding the toilet down to the floor using your adjustable wrench and then move the toilet out of the way.

It might take a bit of rocking before the toilet will come away from the wall. The wax seal is designed to stop gasses coming out of the waste pipe and so it's a very good fit.

Step 3 - Cleaning the Floor

The floor needs to be scraped to get rid of anything which could pose a problem. This helps to get rid of any wax which may remain. Although this step isn't essential it will make it much easier to fit new flooring later on down the line.

Step 4 - Installing the new Flange

The new toilet flange needs to be installed to the toilet. Whether you are using a PVC flange or a cast iron flange they are installed in pretty much the same way.

The flange needs to be put down the drain pipe and it will then be fixed in place. It's essential that the top of the toilet flange is smooth and level so that a good seal can be made.

The new flange is then bolted into place. A wax seal is fixed on the flange to seal the toilet, this prevents water from leaking out and also gasses from causing problems.

Step 5 - Fitting the Toilet

Now it's just time to fit the toilet, the screws will be tightened so that the toilet is sturdy and doesn't rock. The seal should be checked to ensure that this is watertight.