Toilets are a basic necessity of all modern homes. As such, they must be appropriately installed to function as expected. Your toilet drains to your sewer system and is connected by the toilet flange. This essential component is what keeps the water in your toilet and releases it when you flush. It’s one of the crucial parts of the inner workings of your toilet.
If you don’t install this small and often low-cost plumbing part correctly, it can do a lot of damage. Improperly installed flanges can leak and cause significant water waste. Let’s discuss the essential steps to install a toilet flange properly.
Tips to Install a Toilet Flange Properly
Toilet flanges can be installed in two ways:
- Flush with the floor
- Above the floor
One way may be more suitable for some jobs than others. Let’s discuss the advantages and disadvantages of installing a toilet flange in both ways.
Toilet Flange Installation Above the Floor
Most often, people prefer installing the toilet flanges up higher than the bathroom floor. It is recommended to fit the toilet flange a quarter-inch above your floor with this method. This will help the flange stay sealed in place and prevent water from leaking out. Closet bolts hold the flange tightly to the floor and prevent leaks.
To attach a toilet securely and produce a tight seal, you’ll also need a wax ring. Most people choose to install a toilet flange above ground level to prevent the toilet from leaking in the future. However, the disadvantage to this method is that there is space between the flange and the floor, which increases the risk of a problem if the flooring isn’t installed correctly. If a flange is too high or the seal isn’t tight, you may also have a toilet that wobbles and sways. That’s why it’s recommended to have a professional plumber do your installation.
Toilet Flange Installation Flush with the Floor
Installing a toilet flange flush with the floor is also an option. Using this method is relatively similar to setting it up above the floor. The difference may be between the closet bolts and the wax ring. The critical difference between this procedure and the other method is that the finished floor is the same level as the toilet flange.
If the toilet flange is flush with the floor, the wax ring will be farther away from the toilet, making a leak-free seal more challenging to obtain. Setting a toilet flange flush with the floor has the advantage of preventing a shaky toilet due to an incorrectly installed flange. In addition to saving time by not cutting or working around the flooring, choosing this method also looks nicer. This is the most common and convenient option for replacing or installing a new toilet.
Understanding the benefits and drawbacks of each approach will help you decide which option is best for your needs. Since toilet flanges need to be installed correctly, it’s always best to contact a professional plumber to do the job!
Hire a Professional and Licensed Plumbing Company for Your Residential Needs
It’s crucial to hire a professional if you need work done on your residential plumbing system. Contact your local Riverside plumber to schedule an appointment for fast and affordable service.