If your toilet flange is too high, it can cause poor sealing and instability for the toilet. The flange should be level with the finished floor. If it's too high, the toilet may not sit flat, leading to leaks and movement.
To fix this, you can use a thicker wax ring, add a flange spacer, or adjust the flange's height. Each method should be done carefully to ensure a secure and leak-proof fit.
Assessing Flange Height
When installing a toilet, it's important to check the flange height above the finished floor to ensure proper seating and function. The flange should be at or just above floor level. An incorrect flange height can cause leaks, a rocking toilet, or removal difficulties.
If the flange is too high, it may be due to new flooring not accommodating the original flange height or changes in floor height after renovations. A high flange can prevent the toilet from sitting flush, affecting the seal and stability. To fix this, you might need to remove the toilet and cut the pipe with a mini hacksaw or raise the floor with plywood to match the flange height. Raising the floor should be considered carefully in relation to the bathroom's aesthetics and functionality.
Proper flange height assessment is essential for a stable and leak-free toilet installation.
Understanding Flange Function
A toilet flange connects the toilet to the drainage system and should be level with or slightly above the floor to ensure a tight seal with the wax ring, which prevents leaks. If the flange is too high, the toilet may rock and the seal could fail, causing water damage and unsanitary conditions.
During installation, the flange's top should align correctly with the floor level. It has an outer part that attaches to the toilet and an inner part that fits inside or over the drainage pipe. If necessary, the flange height can be adjusted by cutting it down or removing parts.
If the floor level has changed and the flange is low, options like using grout to elevate the toilet or rubber shims for height may be used, but they require careful consideration to avoid complications.
Proper installation of the toilet flange is critical for a functional, clean bathroom.
Preparing Necessary Tools
Before starting the toilet flange adjustment, collect the required tools:
- PVC pipe cable saw
- Mini hacksaw
- Pull saw
- Concrete screws
- Twist N Set Closet Flange
Use the PVC pipe cable saw to cut the top of an existing flange that is too high. It ensures a clean cut without damage to nearby areas.
The mini hacksaw is useful for precise cuts in confined spaces when removing the old flange or adjusting the new pipe's height.
For making the pipe flush with the floor, use the pull saw, which has a fine-toothed blade for smooth cuts.
To install the Twist N Set Closet Flange, use a variable speed drill to make pilot holes for the concrete screws, which secure the flange.
Have closet bolts ready for attaching the toilet to the flange, ensuring a stable and leak-free connection.
With these tools, you can properly adjust or install a toilet flange in your bathroom.
Leveling the Bathroom Floor
A level bathroom floor is essential for properly installing a toilet flange and avoiding leaks. If the floor is not flat, this can cause problems with the toilet installation.
For small uneven areas, you can apply grout mixed to a thick consistency to level the floor. Place rubber shims under the toilet for stability and fill the gaps with grout. Allow the grout to dry for at least 24 hours before removing the shims and finishing the installation.
For larger issues with the floor level, install thicker flooring materials to raise the floor to the desired height. This ensures the toilet and flange are level.
It is important to level the floor before installing a new flange or toilet to prevent future problems, such as leaks or instability, which can damage the toilet's seal and the surrounding area.
Adjusting the Flange Level
If a toilet flange is too high, it can cause leaks by affecting the seal. It's important to adjust the flange so it's level with the floor, which is essential for maintaining the toilet's stability and the integrity of the wax seal.
To lower a high flange, you can use a PVC pipe cable saw to trim the top of the flange to the correct height. This needs to be done with care to ensure the cut is even and the flange isn't damaged. For cast iron flanges, a mini hacksaw can make vertical cuts, allowing for the removal of the extra height; however, this requires careful handling.
If the flange is slightly too high, raising the floor might be a simpler solution. This involves adding a layer of plywood, tile, or backer board in the toilet area. For small discrepancies, placing four rubber shims under the toilet base during installation can help level it. Once the toilet is in place, grout can be applied to any gaps around the base, and then the shims can be removed to ensure the toilet is stable and level.
Should these options be unsuitable, replacing the flange might be necessary. This involves removing the old flange, cutting the pipe beneath to the correct height, and installing a new flange that is flush with the floor.
Installing a Flange Spacer
To install a flange spacer to correct a high toilet flange, follow these steps:
- Begin by cleaning the area around the flange.
- For concrete floors, level with grout or shims if needed.
- Place the flange spacer over the flange, aligning it properly.
- If required, drill holes into the concrete to secure the spacer.
- Use screws to fasten the spacer in place.
After the spacer is installed, continue with the following steps:
- Position the toilet over the spacer and flange to ensure a tight fit.
- Use shims to prevent any movement of the toilet.
- Seal the toilet base to prevent leaks.
- Reconnect the water supply to the toilet.
- Finish the installation by testing for any leaks or issues.
This method allows you to address a high toilet flange without changing existing plumbing.
Replacing the Entire Flange
To replace a toilet flange, first shut off the water supply and remove the toilet. Inspect the old flange for damage or incorrect positioning. Cut it out using a PVC pipe cable saw or mini hacksaw, ensuring a clean cut for ease of new flange installation.
For a flange that was mounted on concrete, drill new holes for the screws. The new flange should be level with or slightly above the floor, but not so high that it hinders the toilet's seal.
Install the new flange, aligning it with the waste pipe and securing it with screws. Reinstall the toilet, making sure it aligns with the flange for a proper seal. If unsure, seek a professional plumber to avoid mistakes.
Sealing and Finishing Up
After aligning the toilet flange properly, the next step is to seal the connection between the flange and the toilet base to prevent leaks. A waxless sealing ring can be used instead of a traditional wax ring, which might not fit a high toilet flange. This alternative requires careful installation to ensure a proper seal.
If the toilet needs to be raised to align with a high flange, grout can be used to elevate the toilet from the concrete floor. Spread the grout evenly around the toilet base to create a stable and level base. This secures the toilet and enhances the finished look. To help the grout adhere and fill any voids, lightly moisten the concrete floor with a spray bottle before applying the grout.
After the grout has hardened, which takes a few hours, remove any rubber shims from the installation. Then, place the toilet over the flange, aligning it with the closet bolts, and lower it carefully. Press the toilet down to make sure it contacts the grout. Next, slowly tighten the closet bolt nuts, being careful not to over-tighten as this could crack the toilet base. To prevent excessive force, use a tool like a yogurt container to tighten the nuts gradually.
Once the toilet is securely installed, check to ensure the seal is solid and the toilet does not move when pressure is applied.
