When embarking on a bathroom renovation, one often-overlooked aspect is the removal of the old toilet flange. This unsung hero, concealed beneath the toilet, plays a crucial role in securing the toilet to the floor and preventing leaks. However, over time, corrosion, aging, or improper installation can compromise the flange’s integrity, necessitating its replacement.
Before delving into the removal process, it’s essential to gather the necessary tools. You will require a hacksaw, a flathead screwdriver, a utility knife, a hammer, and a chisel. Additionally, if the flange is made of plastic, a pair of pliers may come in handy. With these tools at your disposal, you can proceed with the removal process, ensuring a smooth transition to the installation of your new toilet.
To begin the removal, carefully disconnect the water supply line and drain the toilet completely. Once drained, remove the nuts securing the toilet to the flange. Gently rock the toilet back and forth to break the seal, then lift it straight up to detach it from the flange. With the toilet removed, you can now focus on the flange itself. If it’s a metal flange, use the hacksaw to cut through the bolts that secure it to the floor. For a plastic flange, use the utility knife to score and snap the bolts. Once the bolts are severed, use a chisel and hammer to carefully pry the flange loose from the floor. Finally, clean the area thoroughly before installing the new flange and toilet, ensuring a secure and leak-free connection.
Identifying and Locating the Old Toilet Flange
Before you embark on replacing or repairing your toilet, it’s crucial to locate and identify the old toilet flange. This inconspicuous yet essential component forms the base for the toilet and ensures a secure seal against leaks. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you identify and locate the old toilet flange:
Start by shutting off the water supply to your toilet. Locate the water valve, typically found behind the toilet near the floor, and turn it clockwise to close it.
Remove the toilet tank by disconnecting it from the toilet bowl. Carefully lift the tank straight up and off the bowl. Be cautious not to damage the tank or bowl.
Disconnect the water supply line from the fill valve at the bottom of the tank. Use a wrench to loosen the nut connecting the line to the fill valve and pull the line off. Remove the fill valve from the tank.
Unbolt the toilet bowl from the floor by removing the nuts holding it down. You’ll typically find two or more nuts located at the base of the toilet bowl. Use a wrench to loosen and remove the nuts.
Gently lift the toilet bowl straight up and off the flange. Be cautious not to damage the bowl or the floor. The flange will be visible once the toilet bowl is removed, usually affixed to the floor or subfloor.
| Tools Required: |
|---|
| – Wrench |
| – Adjustable wrench |
Selecting the Appropriate Tools and Materials
Essential Tools:
- Adjustable or basin wrench
- Hack/utility saw or reciprocating saw
- Flange puller or crowbar
- Toilet flange replacement kit with bolts
- Plumber’s putty
- Putty knife or flathead screwdriver
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
Appropriate Materials:
It’s important to select the correct toilet flange type for your particular toilet and flooring material. Common types include:
| Floor Type | Flange Type |
|---|---|
| Concrete | Cast iron, plastic, or brass |
| Wood | PVC or plastic |
| Tile | Wax or brass |
Shutting Off Water Supply to the Toilet
To prevent any accidental flooding, it is essential to turn off the water supply to the toilet before proceeding with the flange removal. Here’s a detailed guide on how to do it:
- Locate the water supply valve: It is typically located behind the toilet, close to the floor. It may have a lever or a round handle.
- Turn the valve clockwise: If it has a lever, turn it a quarter turn to the right. If it has a handle, turn it clockwise until it stops or until you feel significant resistance.
- Check if the water is turned off: Flush the toilet. If no water comes out, the water supply is successfully shut off. If water continues to flow, repeat step 2 and ensure the valve is fully closed.
|
Safety Tip: Wear rubber gloves for protection and always double-check that the water supply is completely turned off before proceeding with the flange removal. |
Additional Tip: If you cannot locate the water supply valve behind the toilet, it may be located in a nearby utility room or basement. |
Removing the Toilet Tank and Bowl
Once you’ve removed the bolts and washers, it’s time to separate the tank from the bowl. Here’s how:
1. Disconnect the water supply line
Use pliers to loosen the nut that connects the water supply line to the tank. Gently pull the line off the tank. If the line is old or corroded, you may need to replace it.
2. Remove the nuts from the tank bolts
Using a wrench, carefully remove the nuts from the two tank bolts. Be careful not to drop the bolts into the toilet bowl.
3. Lift off the tank
Gently lift the tank up and off the bowl. Avoid twisting or bending the bolts.
4. Remove the flange bolts
The flange bolts are located on the bottom of the bowl, where it meets the floor. They are usually made of brass or stainless steel and have a square or hex head. To remove them, you will need a wrench or pliers.
Here’s a more detailed step-by-step guide to removing the flange bolts:
a. Place a cloth or towel around the base of the toilet bowl
This will help to prevent scratches or damage to the floor.
b. Locate the flange bolts
The flange bolts are typically located about 2 inches from the edge of the bowl, on either side of the drain hole.
c. Insert a wrench or pliers onto the bolt head
Use a wrench or pliers to grip the bolt head and turn it counterclockwise.
d. Remove the bolt
Once the bolt is loose, remove it completely by hand.
e. Repeat for the other flange bolt
Once you have removed one flange bolt, repeat the process for the other one.
Chiseling or Sawing the Old Flange Loose
If the previous methods didn’t work for you, you’ll need to take a more drastic approach to removing the old flange. Be aware that, depending on the method you choose, you risk damaging the floor or the drain pipe.
Chiseling the Flange Loose
To chisel the flange loose, you will need a chisel and a hammer. Wear safety glasses and gloves for this step.
- Place the chisel against the edge of the flange and tap it with the hammer. Tap around the perimeter of the flange to loosen it.
- Once the flange is loose, use the chisel to pry it up and remove it from the floor.
Sawing the Flange Loose
To saw the flange loose, you will need a reciprocating saw or a hacksaw. Be aware that this method is more likely to damage the floor or the drain pipe.
- Wear safety glasses and gloves for this step.
- Insert the reciprocating saw blade or the hacksaw blade into the gap between the flange and the floor.
- Cut around the perimeter of the flange to remove it.
Tips for Chiseling or Sawing the Flange Loose
- Be careful not to damage the floor or the drain pipe when using these methods.
- If possible, use a chisel that is the same size as the flange.
- If you are using a reciprocating saw, use a blade that is specifically designed for cutting metal.
- If you are using a hacksaw, use a new blade and apply plenty of pressure.
Cleaning the Flange Surface
Before installing a new toilet, it’s essential to thoroughly clean the flange surface. Follow these steps to ensure a clean and secure installation.
Tools and Materials
| Tool | Description |
|---|---|
| Toilet Flange Remover | Specialized tool for removing old toilet flanges |
| Putty Knife | For scraping away old wax or sealant |
| Wire Brush | For scrubbing away debris and rust |
| Cleaning Solution | Bleach, vinegar, or commercial cleaner |
| Rags or Paper Towels | For wiping up debris and cleaning |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Flush the Toilet and Turn Off the Water Supply: Flush the toilet to empty the bowl. Locate the water supply valve behind the toilet and turn it off to prevent water leakage.
- Disconnect the Toilet: Remove the two nuts securing the toilet to the flange with a wrench. Lift the toilet up and move it aside.
- Remove the Old Wax Ring: Using a putty knife, carefully remove the old wax ring around the flange.
- Scrape Off Old Sealant: If there’s any old sealant around the flange, scrape it off using a putty knife.
- Scrub the Flange: Use a wire brush to scrub away any debris, rust, or corrosion from the flange surface. This will ensure a clean surface for the new wax ring and toilet.
- Clean with a Solution: Apply a cleaning solution, such as bleach or vinegar, to the flange surface. Let it sit for a few minutes to disinfect and remove any remaining residue.
- Wipe Down the Flange: Use rags or paper towels to wipe down the flange and remove any remaining debris or cleaning solution.
- Dry the Flange: Allow the flange to dry completely before installing the new toilet. This will prevent any moisture from interfering with the wax ring seal.
Applying a New Wax Ring Seal
Step 1: Clean the Toilet Flange
Use a scraper to remove any old wax, dirt, or debris from the toilet flange. It’s crucial to ensure a secure seal.
Step 2: Position the Wax Ring
Center the wax ring over the toilet flange. The tapered side should face the base of the toilet.
Step 3: Press Down the Wax Ring
Use a hammer and a block of wood to gently tap down the wax ring onto the flange. Ensure it makes good contact without tearing.
Step 4: Check for Gaps
Inspect the perimeter of the wax ring for any gaps or unevenness. Use your finger or a small tool to gently smooth out the surface.
Step 5: Align the Toilet
Lift the toilet carefully and position it over the flange. Ensure the bottom of the toilet is fully seated on the wax ring.
Step 6: Secure with Bolts
Tighten the bolts that secure the toilet to the floor. Do not overtighten, as this can crack the porcelain.
Step 7: Caulk Around the Base
Apply a bead of silicone caulk around the base of the toilet, where it meets the floor. This will prevent water from seeping and protect the floor from damage.
| Additional Tips |
|---|
| Apply Vaseline or petroleum jelly to the rim of the flange before installing the wax ring to create a smoother surface. |
| If the wax ring becomes damaged during installation, replace it with a new one to ensure a watertight seal. |
Preparing the Area
Before you remove the old toilet flange, you need to prepare the area. This involves turning off the water supply to the toilet and disconnecting the water supply line. You will also need to remove the toilet from the flange.
Removing the Old Toilet Flange
Once the area is prepared, you can start removing the old toilet flange. To do this, you will need to use a chisel and hammer to break apart the flange. Once the flange is broken apart, you can remove it from the floor.
Installing the New Toilet Flange
Once the old toilet flange is removed, you can install the new toilet flange. To do this, you will need to:
- Clean the floor where the new flange will be installed.
- Apply a bead of silicone caulk around the perimeter of the new flange.
- Place the new flange over the hole in the floor.
- Secure the flange to the floor with screws.
- Allow the caulk to dry completely before reattaching the toilet.
Tips for Installing the New Toilet Flange
- Make sure that the new flange is properly aligned with the toilet drain pipe.
- Use a level to ensure that the flange is level.
- Apply a generous amount of caulk around the perimeter of the flange.
- Tighten the screws securely, but do not overtighten them.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you encounter any problems while installing the new toilet flange, here are a few troubleshooting tips:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| The flange is not level. | Use a level to adjust the flange until it is level. |
| The flange is not securely attached to the floor. | Tighten the screws securely, but do not overtighten them. |
| The caulk is not applied properly. | Apply a generous amount of caulk around the perimeter of the flange. |
Removing the Old Toilet Flange
Replacing an old toilet flange is a relatively straightforward plumbing project that can be completed in a few hours. Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials, including a new toilet flange, a hacksaw, a putty knife, and a drill.
Removing the Toilet Bowl
1. Turn off the water supply to the toilet and flush to empty the tank.
2. Disconnect the water supply line from the fill valve.
3. Unbolt the toilet bowl from the flange using a wrench.
4. Carefully lift the toilet bowl straight up and off the flange.
Removing the Old Flange
5. Use a hacksaw to cut the old flange flush with the floor.
6. Pry up the remaining flange using a putty knife.
7. Clean the area where the new flange will be installed using a wire brush or sandpaper.
Installing the New Flange
8. Apply a bead of silicone caulk around the base of the new flange.
9. Center the new flange over the drain hole and press it firmly into place. Use a level to ensure that the flange is level. Secure the flange to the floor using the provided screws.
Reattaching the Toilet Bowl and Tank
10. Place the toilet bowl on the new flange and bolt it down using a wrench.
11. Reconnect the water supply line to the fill valve.
12. Turn on the water supply and check for leaks.
| Tools and Materials |
|---|
| New toilet flange |
| Hacksaw |
| Putty knife |
| Drill |
| Silicone caulk |
| Level |
| Screws |
| Wrench |
Removing the Old Toilet Flange
To replace an old or damaged toilet flange, follow these detailed instructions:
1. Turn Off Water Supply and Flush Toilet
Locate the water supply valve behind the toilet and turn it off. Flush the toilet to drain the tank and bowl.
2. Disconnect Water Supply Line
Use a wrench or pliers to disconnect the water supply line from the toilet fill valve.
3. Unbolt Toilet from Flange
Use a wrench to remove the nuts holding the toilet to the flange. Carefully lift the toilet straight up to avoid damaging the floor.
4. Remove Old Wax Ring
Peel away the old wax ring from the flange using a utility knife or chisel.
5. Clean Flange Surface
Thoroughly clean the surface of the flange using a scrub brush and cleaning solution to remove any debris or old sealant.
6. Measure and Cut Flange Bolts
Measure the distance from the bottom of the toilet to the floor and cut the flange bolts accordingly.
7. Align and Tighten Flange
Place the new flange over the drainpipe and align the bolt holes. Tighten the flange bolts evenly using a wrench.
8. Apply New Wax Ring
Apply a thin bead of fresh wax ring around the perimeter of the flange.
9. Set Toilet on Flange
Carefully lower the toilet onto the flange, aligning the bolts. Firmly press down to create a seal.
10. Ensuring Proper Alignment and Tightness
Check the alignment of the toilet bowl:
- Verify that the bowl is level front to back and side to side.
- Tighten the flange bolts further if necessary, but avoid overtightening.
- Use a level to ensure that the toilet is level when installed.
- Reconnect the water supply line and turn on the water supply.
- Flush the toilet to test for leaks.
Table: Recommended Bolt Tightening Torque
| Bolt Size | Tightening Torque |
|---|---|
| 1/2″ | 15-20 ft-lbs |
| 5/8″ | 20-25 ft-lbs |
How to Remove an Old Toilet Flange
Removing an old toilet flange can be a necessary task when replacing a broken or outdated toilet. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
- Turn off the water supply: Locate the shut-off valve behind the toilet and turn it clockwise to close it.
- Flush the toilet: Flush the toilet to empty the tank and bowl.
- Disconnect the water supply line: Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the nuts that connect the water supply line to the fill valve and the toilet tank.
- Unbolt the toilet: Using a socket wrench or adjustable wrench, remove the bolts that hold the toilet to the flange.
- Rock the toilet back and forth: Gently rock the toilet back and forth to break the seal between the wax ring and the flange.
- Lift the toilet off the flange: Carefully lift the toilet straight up and off the flange.
- Remove the old flange: Use a pry bar or screwdriver to carefully pry the old flange away from the floor.
People Also Ask
How do I know if my toilet flange needs to be replaced?
There are several signs that indicate your toilet flange needs to be replaced, including a loose or cracked flange, leaks around the base of the toilet, or a toilet that wobbles or shifts.
How do I install a new toilet flange?
Installing a new toilet flange involves cleaning the area where the old flange was, applying wax ring, setting the new flange, and securing it with bolts.
What is a wax ring and why is it used?
A wax ring is a pliable seal that is placed between the toilet flange and the base of the toilet. It creates a watertight seal to prevent leaks.
