How to Install a New Toilet Flange

Installing a new toilet flange is a fairly simple process that should take no more than 15 to 20 minutes. A properly installed toilet flange will ensure years of dependable use. If the old flange needs to be removed, this will increase the installation time. These instructions assume you are starting with a waste pipe that does not have a toilet flanged installed. If the old toilet flange is still installed on the waste pipe, begin by removing it, then following these procedures.

The following items are needed to complete this procedure:

• New toilet flange
• Adjustable wrench
• Screwdriver (Phillips or straight head)
• Hacksaw (if modification to waste pipe is needed)
• Purple primer and solvent cement (if PVC flange is installed)
• New wax seal or waxless toilet seal

1. Place the new flange on the waste pipe and ensure the pipe height is proper for the flange to be affixed to the subfloor. If modifications need to be made to the waste pipe, use a hacksaw to cut the pipe to the proper height.
2. Ensure the new flange is sitting level to the floor. The flange must sit level and flush to the floor for the toilet to properly seal to the new flange.
3. Install the new flange on the waste pipe with the bolts positioned so they will fit into the toilet mounts. If a PVC flange is used, apply purple primer to the outside of the waste pipe and solvent cement to the inside of the flange, then press the flange firmly on the waste pipe. Be aware, once these item are attach using primer and solvent, they cannot be removed or adjusted. Be sure the flange is positioned and inserted properly on the waste pipe.
4. Secure the new flange to the subfloor by screwing the flange directly into the floor.
5. Apply the new wax seal to the flange or affix a new waxless toilet seal directly to the underside of the toilet.
A waxless seal is commonly overlooked by consumers. Ask your retailer about a waxless seal. Waxless seals are cleaner to install and uninstall and can be reused even if the toilet is removed later.
6. Mount the toilet back onto the new flange and secure it using a washer and nut on the flange bolts. Tighten each bolt with an adjustable wrench. Be very careful not to over tighten the bolts. If the bolts are over tightened, the porcelain toilet will crack.

Your new toilet flange is installed and ready to use.

The flange must sit level and flush to the floor for it to properly seal

by Paul Remington, Home & Garden writer