What is a Toilet Flange?
Wondering what a toilet flange is? It’s a pipe fitting that secures a toilet unit to the drain pipe in the bathroom floor. A flange for a toilet is important because it keeps everything secure, so water doesn’t leak. Keep reading to learn more about how a toilet bowl flange works and how you can replace one if you’re experiencing leaks.
What Is a Flange on a Toilet For?
A toilet flange has two main jobs: keeping the toilet firmly in place with bolts and creating a watertight seal with a wax ring to prevent leaks and sewer smells. Essentially, it’s the seal that makes your toilet function safely.
What Is a Toilet Flange Made Of?
Taking after the name “water closet,” the traditional name for a toilet, closet flanges are typically made of:
- PVC
- Rubber
- Copper
- Brass
- Stainless steel
- Metal
Why Is It Called a Flange?
The term “flange” comes from the Old French word “flanchir,” which means “to bend”. Flanges have long been used to connect pipes and cylinder-shaped fixtures. While primarily used in plumbing, flanges can also be found in train wheels and camera lenses. These extremely useful but understated objects are essential in securing an object in place and connecting it to another unit.
How Do You Replace a Toilet Flange?
Experiencing leaks or rotting wood around your toilet? Here’s how to replace a toilet flange:
- Turn off the water supply and flush the toilet. Sponge out any remaining water.
- Disconnect the water line and remove the nuts holding the toilet to the floor. Lift the toilet off and set it aside.
- Scrape away the old wax ring and clean the flange area.
- Position the new flange on the floor, align the closet bolts, and secure it to the floor and pipe.
- Place a new wax ring on the flange (or toilet outlet) and lower the toilet straight down onto the bolts.
- Tighten the nuts evenly, reconnect the water line, turn on the water, and flush to check for leaks.
If you’re still experiencing problems after replacing the flange, then it may be time to replace the toilet itself.
Can a Toilet be Installed Without a Closet Flange?
Without a closet flange, a toilet will not sit securely in line with the drain pipe. Yes, in theory, the toilet could be attached directly to a floor or subfloor, but this would only last so long before leaks and water-soaked, rotting wood would need to be repaired or replaced. You’ll also want to make sure your flange is tightly connected to prevent any leaks. In other words, the toilet flange is essential!
Get Peace of Mind That Your Toilet Bowl Flange Is Installed Correctly
Yes, you can replace a toilet flange yourself. But if you don’t feel confident, the pros at Roto-Rooter are here to help. If your flange is damaged, corroded, or hard to reach, calling our plumbers ensures the job is done safely. Ready to get started? Call us today to schedule your appointment.
FAQS About Toilet Flanges
Are toilet flanges universal?
No, toilet flanges aren’t universal. Most are designed for standard toilets, but sizes and styles can vary. The key is matching the flange to your toilet and drain pipe.
What does a toilet flange look like?
A toilet flange is a round fitting that sits at the base of the toilet. It has slots for bolts to secure the toilet and connects the toilet to the drainpipe.
Are all toilet flanges the same size?
Most toilet flanges are made to fit a standard 4-inch drain pipe, but some are 3 inches. There are also offset flanges for tight spaces. Always check the pipe size before buying.
Do I need a plumber to replace a toilet flange?
Not always. Handy homeowners can sometimes replace a flange themselves, but if the pipe is damaged, corroded, or hard to reach, calling a plumber saves time and hassle.