A closet flange is an important plumbing component that connects the toilet to the drain pipe in the wall. If the flange is damaged or broken, it must be replaced as soon as possible. This guide will walk you through the steps of replacing a closet flange.
Tools and Materials Needed
Before you begin, make sure you have the following tools and materials on hand:
- New closet flange
- Plumber’s putty
- PVC primer and cement
- Towels
- Screwdriver
- Pliers
- Adjustable wrench
- Hammer
- Pipe wrench
- Caulk
Step 1: Shut off the Water and Disconnect the Toilet
The first step is to shut off the water supply to the toilet. Then, remove the lid of the toilet tank, and flush the toilet to empty the tank. Then, remove the water supply line, and use a wrench to unscrew the bolts that hold the toilet to the floor. Carefully lift the toilet off the floor and set it aside.
Step 2: Remove the Old Flange and Clean the Area
Once the toilet is removed, you can see the old flange. Use a hammer and chisel to remove the old flange, then clean the area around the flange with a towel. Make sure the area is clean and dry before you proceed to the next step.
Step 3: Installing the New Flange
Now you are ready to install the new flange. Start by applying plumber’s putty to the underside of the flange. Then, place the flange over the drainpipe and press down firmly. Use a screwdriver to secure the flange in place.
Step 4: Connect the Toilet to the Flange
Once the flange is in place, you can connect the toilet to the flange. Start by applying PVC primer and cement to the ends of the drainpipe. Then, place the toilet over the flange and press down firmly. Use a wrench to secure the bolts to the floor.
Step 5: Caulk Around the Toilet
Once the toilet is firmly in place, use a caulk gun to apply caulk around the base of the toilet. This will help to seal the toilet and prevent water from leaking.
Step 6: Turn on the Water Supply
The last step is to turn on the water supply. Turn the water on slowly and check for any leaks. If there are any leaks, tighten the bolts and apply more caulk as needed.
Conclusion
Replacing a closet flange is a simple job that anyone can do. Just make sure you follow the steps outlined above and use the right tools and materials. With a little bit of patience and diligence, you can easily replace a closet flange and make sure your toilet is working properly.