If you’re renovating or repairing a bathroom, you may find that you need to remove the toilet flange. This can be a daunting task, especially if you’ve never done it before. However, with the right tools and a bit of knowledge, you can remove a toilet flange with ease. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to remove a toilet flange.
What is a toilet flange?
Before we dive into the steps for removing a toilet flange, let’s briefly discuss what it is. A toilet flange is a circular fitting that connects the toilet to the waste pipe. It is typically made of PVC or cast iron and is secured to the floor with screws or bolts. The toilet flange is an important component of the toilet installation, as it provides a secure and watertight seal between the toilet and the waste pipe.
Tools needed to remove a toilet flange
Before you start the process of removing a toilet flange, you’ll need to gather the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Adjustable wrench
- Screwdriver
- Hacksaw
- Putty knife
- Pry bar
- Safety goggles
- Work gloves
Steps for removing a toilet flange
Now that you have your tools ready, let’s walk through the steps for removing a toilet flange.
Step 1: Turn off the water supply
Before you do anything else, turn off the water supply to the toilet. You can do this by turning the shut-off valve located behind the toilet. Then, flush the toilet to drain the water from the tank and bowl.
Step 2: Disconnect the water supply line
Using your adjustable wrench, disconnect the water supply line from the bottom of the toilet tank. You may need to use a pair of pliers to hold the nut in place while you unscrew the supply line.
Step 3: Remove the toilet
Using your screwdriver, remove the bolts that secure the toilet to the floor. Once the bolts are removed, carefully lift the toilet off the flange and set it aside. Be careful not to damage the wax ring that seals the toilet to the flange.
Step 4: Remove the flange
If the flange is secured to the floor with screws, use your screwdriver to remove them. If the flange is secured with bolts, use your adjustable wrench to remove them.
If the flange is stuck or difficult to remove, you may need to use a hacksaw to cut it off. To do this, use your hacksaw to cut through the flange as close to the floor as possible. Be careful not to damage the floor.
Step 5: Clean up
Once the flange is removed, use your putty knife to scrape away any old wax from the toilet flange and the floor. Be sure to wear work gloves to protect your hands.
Step 6: Install a new flange
If you’re installing a new flange, place it over the waste pipe and secure it to the floor with screws or bolts. If the flange is not level with the floor, use shims to level it.
Step 7: Reinstall the toilet
Place a new wax ring over the flange and carefully lower the toilet onto the flange. Align the bolts with the holes in the base of the toilet and tighten them with your screwdriver. Then, reconnect the water supply line and turn on the water supply.
In conclusion, removing a toilet flange may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and a bit of know-how, it can be done quickly and easily. Remember to take your time and follow these steps carefully to ensure a successful removal.