Level Up Your Toilet: How to Fix a Toilet Flange That’s Too Low for Tile
What To Know
- Use a tape measure to determine the distance from the subfloor to the top of the flange.
- If the drain hole in the toilet does not align with the flange, you may need to adjust the flange extender.
- The height of your toilet flange should be equal to the thickness of your tile plus the height of the subfloor.
When embarking on a bathroom renovation, it’s crucial to ensure that your toilet flange is at the appropriate height for your new tile flooring. An improperly positioned flange can lead to leaks, wobbly toilets, and a compromised aesthetic. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of raising your toilet flange for tile, empowering you with the knowledge and skills to achieve a flawless installation.
Measuring and Assessing the Situation
Before raising the flange, it’s essential to measure the height of your existing flange and the thickness of your new tile. Use a tape measure to determine the distance from the subfloor to the top of the flange. Then, add the thickness of the tile to this measurement to calculate the desired flange height.
Removing the Toilet
To access the flange, you’ll need to remove the toilet. Turn off the water supply and flush the toilet to drain the tank. Disconnect the water supply line and unbolt the toilet from the flange using a wrench or socket set. Carefully lift the toilet straight up and set it aside.
Removing the Old Flange
With the toilet removed, you can now remove the old flange. Use a utility knife or hacksaw to cut through the old wax ring and pry the flange loose from the subfloor. If the flange is glued down, you may need to use a heat gun to soften the adhesive before removing it.
Installing a Flange Extender
In most cases, raising the flange requires the installation of a flange extender. These extenders are available in various heights and are designed to fit over the existing flange. Choose an extender that will raise the flange to the desired height and slide it over the old flange. Secure the extender in place using the provided bolts or screws.
Installing a New Wax Ring
Before reinstalling the toilet, you’ll need to install a new wax ring. Apply a bead of silicone sealant around the base of the toilet flange to create a watertight seal. Place the wax ring on the flange, centering it over the drain hole.
Reinstalling the Toilet
Carefully lower the toilet back onto the flange, aligning the bolts with the holes in the toilet base. Hand-tighten the bolts until the toilet is secure. Use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts further, following the manufacturer’s recommended specifications.
Reconnecting the Water Supply
Reconnect the water supply line to the toilet and turn on the water supply. Flush the toilet to check for any leaks. If there are no leaks, you’re all set!
Final Checks and Adjustments
Once the toilet is reinstalled, perform a final check to ensure everything is functioning properly. Check for any leaks around the base of the toilet and make sure the toilet is stable and not wobbly. If necessary, make any minor adjustments to the flange height or tighten the bolts further.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Toilet Rocks or Wobbles
If your toilet rocks or wobbles after installation, it may indicate that the flange is not properly secured to the subfloor. Tighten the bolts that connect the flange to the subfloor and check if the problem persists.
Leaks Around the Base of the Toilet
Leaks around the base of the toilet can be caused by several factors. Ensure that the wax ring is properly installed and that the toilet is securely bolted to the flange. If the leaks persist, you may need to replace the wax ring or tighten the bolts further.
Toilet Drain Hole Not Aligned with Flange
If the drain hole in the toilet does not align with the flange, you may need to adjust the flange extender. Loosen the bolts that secure the extender and rotate it slightly until the drain hole is centered over the flange. Tighten the bolts to secure the extender in place.
Questions You May Have
Q: How high should my toilet flange be for tile?
A: The height of your toilet flange should be equal to the thickness of your tile plus the height of the subfloor.
Q: What type of flange extender should I use?
A: Choose a flange extender that is compatible with your existing flange and will raise it to the desired height.
Q: Can I install a toilet on a flange that is too low?
A: Installing a toilet on a flange that is too low can lead to leaks and other problems. It is recommended to raise the flange to the appropriate height before installing the toilet.
