Flush Your Plumbing Woes Away: How to Extend Toilet Bolts in No Time

Toilet bolts are essential components that secure your toilet to the floor. However, if you’re installing a new toilet or replacing a damaged one, you may find that the existing bolts are too short. Don’t worry! Extending toilet bolts is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few easy steps.

Materials You’ll Need:

• Toilet bolt extensions
• Wrench
• Screwdriver
• Measuring tape
• Wax ring

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Measure the Distance:

Use a measuring tape to determine the distance between the bottom of the toilet bowl and the floor. Subtract 1/2 inch to account for the thickness of the wax ring. This measurement will give you the length of the bolts you need.

2. Choose the Right Extensions:

Select toilet bolt extensions that are long enough to extend the bolts to the desired length. They are typically available in various sizes, so choose the ones that match your measurement.

3. Remove the Old Bolts:

Use a wrench to loosen the nuts on the old toilet bolts. Once the nuts are loose, remove the bolts from the toilet flange.

4. Install the Extensions:

Insert the toilet bolt extensions into the toilet flange. Make sure that the extensions are facing the correct direction.

5. Tighten the Extensions:

Use a wrench to tighten the extensions into the flange. Do not overtighten, as this can damage the flange.

6. Install the Toilet:

Place the toilet bowl over the flange and align the bolts with the holes in the bowl.

7. Install the Nuts and Washers:

Place a washer on each bolt and then tighten the nuts onto the bolts. Again, do not overtighten.

8. Caulk Around the Base:

Apply a bead of silicone caulk around the base of the toilet where it meets the floor. This will help to prevent leaks.

Additional Tips:

• If you’re having trouble tightening the nuts, try using a pair of pliers.
• If the toilet is rocking after it’s installed, it may be necessary to shim under the base.
• If you’re not comfortable performing these steps yourself, call a licensed plumber for assistance.

Troubleshooting Common Issues:

Bolt Length: If the bolts are too long, they can damage the toilet bowl or the floor. If they are too short, the toilet will not be secure.

Loose Bolts: If the bolts are loose, the toilet can rock or wobble. Tighten the nuts until the toilet is secure.

Leaking: If the toilet is leaking around the base, the wax ring may not be properly installed or the bolts may be loose. Check the wax ring and tighten the bolts as needed.

FAQ:

1. Can I use any type of bolt extension?

No, you should only use toilet bolt extensions that are specifically designed for this purpose.

2. How do I know if I need to extend the toilet bolts?

If the existing bolts are too short to reach the holes in the toilet bowl, you will need to extend them.

3. What is the best way to tighten the bolts?

Use a wrench to tighten the bolts until they are snug. Do not overtighten, as this can damage the flange.

4. How long should the bolts be?

The bolts should be long enough to extend through the toilet flange and into the toilet bowl. Subtract 1/2 inch from the distance between the bottom of the toilet bowl and the floor to determine the length of the bolts.

5. Can I extend toilet bolts myself?

Yes, extending toilet bolts is a relatively simple task that can be completed by most DIYers. However, if you are not comfortable performing these steps, call a licensed plumber for assistance.