How to Remove Old Toilet Flange Like a Pro
How to Remove Old Toilet Flange?
To remove an old toilet flange, first turn off the water supply to prevent leaks.
Then, drain the water from the toilet bowl and tank and close the supply line.
Disconnect the hose running from the tank to the shutoff valve.
Remove the nuts from the mounting bolts and lift the tank.
Loosen the caps on the bolts securing the toilet’s base to the floor, and lift and remove the toilet bowl from the floor.
Unscrew and remove the old toilet flange from the drainpipe, and scrape away any remaining pieces of the wax ring.
Inspect the subfloor for any damaged areas that need to be replaced.
Measure the diameter of the old flange to ensure purchasing the correct size.
Install the new flange by placing it over the drainpipe and securing it with screws.
Finally, attach the toilet bowl to the new flange using mounting bolts, reattach the tank, and turn on the water supply.
Key Points:
- Turn off the water supply to prevent leaks
- Drain the water from the toilet bowl and tank
- Disconnect the hose running from the tank to the shutoff valve
- Remove the nuts from the mounting bolts and lift the tank
- Loosen the caps on the bolts securing the toilet’s base to the floor and lift and remove the toilet bowl
- Unscrew and remove the old toilet flange from the drainpipe, inspect the subfloor, measure the diameter of the old flange, and install the new flange
Did You Know?
1. The toilet flange, also known as the closet flange, is an essential component that connects the toilet bowl to the drainpipe in your bathroom floor.
2. Did you know that the modern toilet flange was patented by inventor Howard Dawson in 1957? His design revolutionized the installation process for toilets, making it more efficient and secure.
3. In some older homes, you may encounter cast-iron toilet flanges. These were commonly used in the mid-20th century and can be challenging to remove due to their durability and rusting properties over time.
4. One little-known fact about removing an old toilet flange is that heating the pipe with a hairdryer or heat gun can make it easier to loosen and remove. The gentle heat expands the metal, allowing for easier removal without causing damage to surrounding components.
5. When replacing an old toilet flange, it’s highly recommended to use PVC flanges instead of metal ones. PVC flanges are more resistant to rust and corrosion, providing a longer-lasting and trouble-free solution for your bathroom plumbing.
Turn Off The Water Supply
Before attempting to remove an old toilet flange, it’s important to turn off the water supply to avoid any potential leaks. Locate the valve near the base of the toilet and turn it clockwise until it is fully closed. Additionally, you should drain any remaining water in the toilet bowl and tank by closing the supply line and flushing the toilet. Disconnect the hose running from the tank to the shutoff valve to ensure all water is properly drained.
Remove The Toilet Bowl And Tank
To remove a toilet bowl and tank from the floor, follow these steps:
- Start by turning off the water supply and draining the toilet.
- Begin by removing the nuts from the mounting bolts that hold the tank to the bowl.
- Carefully lift the tank and set it aside.
- Next, loosen the caps on the bolts that secure the toilet’s base to the floor.
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Lift and remove the toilet bowl from the floor, making sure to keep it upright to avoid any spills or mess.
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Make sure to turn off the water supply and drain the toilet before starting.
- Remove the nuts from the mounting bolts of the tank.
- Lift and set the tank aside.
- Loosen the caps on the bolts holding the toilet base to the floor.
- Lift and remove the toilet bowl, keeping it upright to prevent spills.
Note: Take care to avoid any spills or mess during the removal process.
Remove The Old Toilet Flange
Now that the toilet bowl is removed, it’s time to remove the old toilet flange from the drainpipe. Start by unscrewing and removing the old flange from the drainpipe. If there are any remaining wax ring pieces stuck to the flange, scrape them away using a scraper or putty knife. It’s important to ensure the area is clean and free of any debris before installing the new flange.
Inspect And Repair The Subfloor
With the old flange removed, take the opportunity to inspect the subfloor for any damaged areas that may need to be replaced. Look for signs of rot, water damage, or deterioration. If any areas are found to be damaged, it’s crucial to replace them before proceeding with the installation of the new flange. This will help ensure the longevity and stability of the new flange.
Install The New Toilet Flange
Before installing the new flange, it’s important to measure the diameter of the old flange to ensure you purchase the correct size. The new flange should match the size, shape, and fitting type of the old flange. Once you have the correct flange, place it over the drainpipe and secure it with screws, ensuring it is tightly in place. This will provide a secure base for the toilet bowl.
Reassemble And Test The Toilet
With the new flange installed, it’s time to reassemble the toilet. Start by attaching the toilet bowl to the new flange using the mounting bolts. Make sure the toilet bowl is properly aligned and seated on the flange before tightening the bolts. Once the bowl is securely in place, reattach the tank to the bowl using the mounting nuts. Finally, turn on the water supply and check for any leaks. If no leaks are found, flush the toilet to ensure it is functioning properly.
It’s important to note that if the old flange is made of metal and is glued in place or attached with a deep-seal fitting, it is recommended to hire a professional plumber to remove it. Attempting to remove a metal flange without the proper knowledge and tools can cause further damage to the plumbing system.
When installing the new flange, it is recommended to use a new wax ring. The wax ring can be secured either to the flange or the base of the toilet. The preferred method is to attach it to the base of the toilet for a more secure and watertight seal. However, if necessary, it can be placed on the flange before installing the toilet.
By following these important facts and steps, you can remove an old toilet flange like a professional. Whether you are replacing a damaged flange, upgrading to a newer model, or performing a bathroom renovation, this process will ensure a smooth and successful removal of the old flange.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are toilet flanges removable?
Yes, toilet flanges are removable. To remove the toilet flange, start by unscrewing it from the floor while ensuring the screws are in good condition and can be saved for future use. In some cases, you may need to use a chisel and hammer to carefully pry out any remnants of the old flange.
Are toilet flanges glued down?
Toilet flanges are typically not glued down. Instead, they are secured using screws or bolts and nuts. Adhesives are not necessary, especially when installing a gasket-sealed PVC flange. The screws or bolts provide sufficient stability to keep the flange in place and prevent any movement or leakage.
Can you put a new toilet flange over an old one?
No, it is not recommended to put a new toilet flange over an old one. A proper installation of a toilet flange requires removing the old flange to ensure a secure seal and stability for the toilet bowl. Simply adding a new flange on top of the old one may lead to an improper fit and potential leaks or loosening of the toilet.
1. What are the steps involved in removing an old toilet flange and installing a new one?
To remove an old toilet flange and install a new one, follow these steps:
1. Remove the toilet: Turn off the water supply to the toilet and flush to empty the tank. Disconnect the water supply hose and unbolt the toilet from the floor. Carefully lift the toilet and set it aside.
2. Remove the old flange: Inspect the existing flange for damage or corrosion. Use a wrench or pliers to unscrew the bolts securing the flange to the floor. Gently pry the flange from the drainpipe using a screwdriver or pry bar.
3. Install the new flange: Clean the area around the drainpipe to remove any debris or old wax seals. Position the new flange over the drainpipe, ensuring it is level with the floor. Secure it in place by screwing bolts through the flange into the floor.
4. Reinstall the toilet: Place a new wax ring onto the flange, ensuring it is centered over the drain. Lower the toilet onto the flange, lining up the bolt holes with the flange bolts. Press down firmly to create a seal and secure the toilet by tightening the nuts back onto the flange bolts. Reconnect the water supply hose, turn on the water, and test for any leaks.