How To Lower Toilet Flange (Put Down A Toilet Flange) 2024
Are you planning a bathroom remodel and encountered a higher toilet flange after removing the toilet? The issue can lead to leaks and an unstable toilet. Lowering the flange needs specific techniques and tools.
If you’re lowering a toilet flange, you can find valuable guidance from experienced DIY enthusiasts or plumbers who have successfully addressed a non-flush toilet flange, and I am one of them.
Let’s explore some helpful advice and posts to help you overcome this obstacle and ensure a stable and properly functioning toilet in your remodeled bathroom!
Table of Contents
What Is A Toilet Flange?
A toilet flange, also known as a closet flange, is a circular plumbing fitting that connects the toilet to the waste pipe on the floor. It provides a secure connection and seals the area between the toilet and the waste pipe to prevent leaks and provide stability.
How To Lower The Toilet Flange?
Lowering a toilet flange needs a technical approach, but with the right approach, you can easily lower it. Here is a technical guide for lowering your toilet flange.
· Shut off the water supply to the toilet by turning the valve clockwise. Remove the toilet by disconnecting the water supply line and, unscrewing the bolts, and securing it to the floor.
· Determine how much you need to lower the flange to align it with the finished floor. It is crucial for proper installation.
· If the flange is attached with screws, unscrew them. If it’s secured with adhesive, use a putty knife or chisel to pry it off carefully.
· Depending on the material, you have two options.
· For PVC flanges, use a hacksaw to cut it down to the desired height.
· For cast iron flanges, a reciprocating saw with a metal-cutting blade is necessary. Make precise cuts and ensure a level flange.
· Remove any debris or old wax from the flange and surrounding floor. Use a putty knife or scraper to clean the surface thoroughly.
· Place a new wax ring on the flange to ensure it fits securely and is centered.
· Carefully position the toilet over the flange, aligning the bolt holes. Gently press it down to compress the wax ring and create a watertight seal.
· Insert and tighten the bolts evenly, alternating between them. Avoid overtightening, as it may crack the toilet or flange. Use a level to ensure the toilet is properly aligned and stable.
· Reattach the water supply line and turn on the valve. Check for any leaks around the base of the toilet.
How To Lower Cast Iron Toilet Flange?
Lowering a cast iron toilet flange needs a reciprocating saw with a metal-cutting blade. Carefully cut the flange to the desired height, ensuring a level cut.
Clean the area, install a new wax ring, and reinstall the toilet, securing it with even bolt tightening.
· How do you lower a toilet flange in concrete?
If you are looking to lower a toilet flange in concrete, follow these steps.
· Disconnect the toilet and remove it.
· Use a hammer and chisel to carefully chip away the concrete around the flange, exposing it.
· Assess the desired height and use a reciprocating saw with a masonry blade to cut the flange down.
· Clean the area thoroughly and install a new wax ring.
· Reinstall the toilet with proper bolt tightening.
How To Lower A Metal Toilet Flange?
For Lowering a metal toilet flange, here is an easy-to-follow process.
· Disconnect and remove the toilet.
· Locate the screws or bolts securing the flange to the floor and remove them.
· If the flange is adjustable, adjust it to the desired height. If not, you may need to replace the flange with a lower one.
· Install a new wax ring onto the lowered or new flange.
· Reinstall the toilet, ensuring the bolts align with the flange holes, and tighten them evenly.
How to Fix Uneven Toilet Flange?
If you have an uneven toilet flange, here is how you can fix an uneven toilet flange.
· Remove the toilet.
· Check the flange and determine the cause of the unevenness, such as a broken or deteriorated flange.
· If the flange is broken, replace it with a new one at the correct height.
· If it’s intact but uneven, use shims or flange spacers to level it.
· Install a new wax ring on the flange.
· Reinstall the toilet and make sure it sits evenly on the flange. Remember to tighten the bolts evenly.
· What to do if the toilet flange is not level?
If the toilet flange is not level, you can use shims or flange spacers to level it. Place them under the flange until it is even, then reinstall the toilet.
· What should you do if a toilet flange is too high?
If a toilet flange is too high, you have a few options. You can use a flange extender kit to raise the flange to the desired height, or you can carefully trim the flange down using a hacksaw or reciprocating saw.
What If The Toilet Flange Is Lower Than The Floor?
If the toilet flange is lower than the floor, you can use a flange spacer or an adjustable flange extender to raise it to the appropriate height. These devices sit on top of the existing flange and provide the necessary elevation for proper installation.
· Expert Tips
· Consider using a flange extender or spacer kit if the flange height adjustment required is minimal.
· Use a plumber’s putty to create a watertight seal between the flange and the floor, especially if you’re dealing with an uneven surface.
· Apply silicone caulk around the base of the toilet after installation for added stability and to prevent water seepage.
· If you’re unsure about any step, consult a professional plumber to ensure proper installation and avoid potential issues.
Russel Clark is a plumbing specialist who stumbled into the world of pipes and fixtures with a relentless passion for the trade. My journey into plumbing was unexpected, sparked by a deep-seated curiosity and a desire to make a real difference in people’s lives.
I started as a plumbing helper, where I found myself learning the ropes from experienced plumbers who generously shared their knowledge. Here, I discovered my true calling and fell head over heels for the art and science of plumbing.
I vividly recall my early days, armed with a toolbox and eager to soak up every plumbing wisdom I could find. I embraced the challenges that came my way, from learning to decipher the intricate maze of pipes beneath our feet to mastering the inner workings of toilets, sinks, and showers.
Plumbing, I soon realized, is not just about pipes and wrenches; it’s about ensuring the comfort, safety, and well-being of every home and business. It’s about being the unsung hero who swoops in to save the day when leaks and clogs threaten to disrupt daily life.
Throughout my journey, I’ve encountered a myriad of plumbing puzzles – from burst pipes in the dead of winter to toilets that seemed to have a mind of their own. With each challenge, I’ve honed my skills, learning to think on my feet and find creative solutions to even the trickiest of problems.
Now, with years of hands-on experience, I’m thrilled to share my expertise and passion with you through the blog toiletsadviser.com/. Whether you’re a fellow plumbing enthusiast or someone in dire need of plumbing guidance, I’m here to lend a helping hand.
