Is Your Toilet Flange Not Level? (We Have A Fix!)

If your toilet is wobbly or loose, this may indicate that your toilet flange is not level. Toilets should be flush against the floor. If you notice that your toilet is rocking back and forth, replace the toilet flange to prevent future damage.

If the toilet flange is not level, you should replace it. First, empty the toilet, remove the toilet tank and bowl, then remove the existing flange. Next, install the new flange and place a wax ring around it to keep it level.

Using a towel, plug the drain pipe. This will prevent unpleasant odors and prevent you from losing bolts or small parts down the drain.

Clean the wax ring from the bottom of the toilet and the base of the flange. To do this, use a putty knife or paint scraper. Remove the mounting bolts and screws and set them aside if they are in good condition to reuse them again.

If you have a PVC flange, you can lift it from the outflow pipe. If the flange is metal or glued to the drainpipe, a plumber may need to remove it.

After you install the toilet flange, install the new wax ring. The thickness of your floor will indicate the required thickness of the wax ring. You have two options for installing the wax ring.

Option one is to rest the toilet bowl on its side on a towel to protect the floor. Then, attach the replacement wax ring to the bottom of the toilet bowl. This will ensure the wax ring is in the correct position when placing the toilet over the flange.

Option two is to center the wax ring over the flange, then lower the toilet bowl into place.

Place the toilet bowl over the new flange and align the bolt holes in the base with the flange bolts. If you hold the bowl by the inside rim, you may have a better grip. Lower the bowl and apply pressure to set the seal.

Make sure not to move the toilet after placing it on the wax ring. Replace the washers and nuts on each bolt and tighten the nuts onto the bolts. Make sure not to over-tighten the nuts to prevent cracking the toilet bowl, then replace the bolt caps.

Replace the toilet tank on the toilet bowl and align the bolts with the holes in the bowl. Secure the tank by tightening each tank bolt until the tank meets the bowl. Reattach the water supply line and test the toilet for leaks by turning the water shut-off valve.

Complete the installation by flushing the toilet and making sure there are no leaks.

Apply a thin, even bead of caulk around the base of the toilet. The caulk will cover the gap along the floor and hide the shims. Smooth the caulk with your finger, then wipe clean with a rag.

Caulk can create a finished look and keep any water from getting under the toilet base. However, caulking the entire base can trap water if there is a leak. To prevent this, leave the backside of the base without caulk so you will be aware if there are leaks.

Allow the caulk to dry before using the toilet.

Related Questions

What is the average cost to replace a toilet?

The average cost to replace a toilet depends on several factors. The cost will depend on the type of toilet you have. The cost will also vary based on your location and the difficulty of the installation. Most plumbers charge between $275 to $480 to replace a toilet. The average cost, however, is $375 to replace the toilet. When a plumber replaces the toilet, the cost includes removing and disposing of your old toilet.

Are some toilets more expensive than others?

There are three different toilet designs: a one-piece toilet, a two-piece toilet, and a wall-mount toilet. One-piece toilets are typically more expensive, but they are a sleeker look. Because there are few crevices, they are easier to clean.Two-piece toilets are the most common type of toilet and most competitive in price. When purchasing a toilet, you have the most options with the two-piece type. Wall-mount toilets are not common because they require a specific installation. They are also more expensive, but they have the benefit of being able to sweep or mop under them.

Can plunging a toilet damage the wax ring?

If you are trying to dislodge a clog in the toilet, you may thrust too hard down into the toilet. This can break the wax seal between the toilet and the floor and cause a leak. A hard thrust can also crack the toilet bowl, so follow the steps below to properly plunge the toilet. First, place the plunger in the toilet bowl so that water is covering the lips of the plunger. Next,  push down gently to get all the air out of the plunger, then quickly pull the plunger up. Repeat the process until the toilet drains.