The answer to this question depends on what type of toilet flange is being used. A traditional screwed in toilet flange should be situated directly on top of the floor tile, as this will provide the most secure seal and create a permanent structure for the toilet.
However, a plastic toilet flange can be installed over the tile for added stability. This is because a plastic flange does not require a screw, so an additional layer of protection is offered by the tile.
Additionally, if the flange is not securely attached to a wooden subfloor, then installing it over the tile can add extra support. Ultimately, it is best to understand how the toilet flange is intended to be used and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation.
Should the toilet flange be above the tile floor?
Generally, the toilet flange should be level with or slightly below the top of the tile floor. It is important that the toilet flange is securely mounted, as any sag in the flange can lead to the toilet experiencing unwanted wobbling and the wax ring seal failing over time.
Additionally, the toilet flange should be placed correctly to accommodate the thickness of the finished flooring, leaving proper clearance for the toilet itself. If the toilet flange is placed too low, it can leave too little room for the toilet and the flange may not properly line up with the pipe.
If the toilet flange is placed too high, it can lead to leakage around the bottom of the toilet.
Does the tile go under the toilet flange?
Generally, the tile should go up to the flange but not necessarily under it. The flange has to mounted onto a solid, level surface to ensure a good seal to the floor and prevent any rocking of the toilet when in use.
If the tile does go under the flange, there needs to be a solid subfloor to mount it to. If the tile is laid directly over the existing subfloor, it should be reinforced. The flange should be mounted to the new subfloor and the tile laid up to the flange.
Any gaps between the edge of the tile and the flange should be filled with a suitable sealant or caulk.
How close should tile be to toilet flange?
When tiling around a toilet flange, the tile should be as close as possible without actually touching the toilet flange. It is important to leave some wiggle room around the flange to allow for the installation of a wax ring seal.
This will help to ensure a watertight seal between the toilet and the flange. For most installations, the tile should be installed approximately 1/8 of an inch away from the flange. Specialty spacers can sometimes be used to help keep the tile at an even distance away from the flange.
Additionally, adding a thin bead of caulk along the edge of the tile will create a waterproof barrier to prevent any water from seeping in and causing damage to the floor or walls.
Is it OK for toilet flange to be lower than floor?
Yes, it is ok for a toilet flange to be lower than the floor. The toilet flange is the pipe connection that goes between the toilet and the plumbing that resides in the wall. The most important thing is for the flange to be level, so if it is lower than the floor, you may need to make some adjustments in order to get it level.
You can use shims or a wax ring extender to bring the flange up to the same height as the floor. If the flange is too low, it may create a leak between the flange and the toilet, so it’s important to make sure the flange is at the same level as the floor.
How do you fix a toilet flange that sits too high?
If your toilet flange is sitting too high, you will need to address the issue in order to ensure your toilet is secure and the seal between the toilet bowl and the flange is watertight. Thankfully, there are a few different methods you can use to effectively fix the toilet flange.
The first method is to use a flange extender and wax ring. This solution is best used if the flange is only slightly too high, as the extender will raise the flange enough to create a good seal. Simply remove the current wax ring and replace it with a wax ring with a flange extender attached.
The second method is to use a flange spacers. A flange spacer can be placed under the current flange in order to raise it and provide the necessary clearance. Once the flange is in the correct position, use a new wax ring between the underside of the flange and the toilet.
The final method is to use a flange support. This is best used when the flange is sitting too high and is causing the wax ring to squish out. A flange support will raise the flange in order to provide the necessary support.
However, this is not a very common solution and it is important to carefully follow all instructions for installing the support.
Regardless of which solution you opt for, make sure to thoroughly clean the existing flange before beginning, as dirt or debris can affect the seal between the toilet bowl and the flange. Additionally, after the flange is adjusted, check to make sure the toilet is properly secured to the flange and that the seal between the toilet bowl and the flange is watertight.
Is it better to tile under or around a toilet?
The answer depends on the installation type of your toilet and the condition of your flooring. Generally, it’s best to tile under a toilet as this offers more support and stability. It also helps keep the toilet in place and reduces everything shifting over time.
Conversely, tiling around the toilet is more aesthetically pleasing but can be more difficult to maintain due to the curved shape of the toilet bowl. You may need to clean and mop around it more regularly, as dirt and grime could build up in the hard to reach places.
Additionally, tiling around the toilet could be more prone to damage if there is a lot of movement. Make sure to select the best method for you, based on your skill level, budget, and desired aesthetic.
What screws to use for toilet flange on tile?
When installing a toilet flange on tile, it is important to use screws that are well-suited for the job. The best screws to use are steel screws with small heads, such as drywall or Phillips-head screws.
Steel screws are ideal because they are strong and unlikely to corrode over time, while small heads make it easier to countersink the screws, which is important to keep the toilet flange level and secure.
Additionally, if your screws are too long, they may stick out and create a tripping hazard or be damaged, so make sure to choose screws that are the right length for your installation. For best results, use stainless steel screws with a weather-resistant plating.
When installing the screws, take care to drill in pre-drilled holes that are slightly deeper and wider than the screws, so the flange will sit flush and not wobble.
Does toilet flange have to be glued in the pipe?
Generally, toilet flanges should be glued into the pipe to provide a water-tight seal. To help ensure that the connection is secure, it is best to use an appropriate adhesive. Depending on the type of pipe you have, the glue you will use will be different.
If you have cast iron or PVC pipes, for example, you will need to use cement. However, if you have ABS or copper pipes, you will need to use caulk. It is important to use the proper glue or cement as others may not adequately seal the connection.
Additionally, allowing time for the adhesive to dry and cure is also important. After the adhesive has dried, any excess glue should be removed to prevent any clogs in the toilet. Finally, remember to always follow the manufacturer’s directions and safety guidelines when working with adhesives.
Can toilet flange be flush with tile?
Yes, toilet flanges can be flush with tile. Installing a toilet flange flush with the tile is similar to installing one on a concrete or wood floor. The key difference is that you will need to drill small pilot holes through the tile in order for the toilet flange bolts to grip the top of the tile.
You also need to make sure that the flange is level and properly aligned before tightening the bolts, as this will ensure that the toilet has a secure and watertight seal with the flange. Once the flange is in place, you will then need to install the wax ring, toilet, and appropriate fixtures, such as a supply line.
Finally, it is important to caulk the toilet to the base of the tile to prevent leaks and give your installation a finished look.
Do you put flooring under toilet flange?
Yes, you should put flooring under the toilet flange. The flange connects the toilet to the drain pipe in the floor, and is the part of the toilet that sits on top of the flooring. In some bathrooms, the flange may be hidden under the finish flooring such as tile, but in most cases, subflooring of some type is installed around the flange.
This provides a level and stable base for the toilet. Ideally, subflooring should be installed up to at least the level of the flange, but many contractor’s prefer to raise the subflooring about 1/4″ above the flange for increased stability.
In addition, it’s important to use a waterproof material around the flange to prevent moisture from seeping into the subflooring and causing mold or other damage. Services such as vinyl, cement board, and others can all be used under the flange, with competent installation techniques.
This will ensure your toilet installation lasts for years.
Is it OK to double up wax rings?
No, it is not advised to double up wax rings. Doing so can cause the wax to melt and create a mess, which can clog the drain pipes and cause serious plumbing issues. It can also lead to an unstable toilet installation, putting it at risk of tipping or shifting.
To ensure a successful installation it is best to use only one wax ring at a time. Additionally, if multiple wax rings are used, it is important to make sure they are securely attached to the soil pipe and not stacked.
This is to prevent uneven pressure that could cause a leak.
Should you caulk around a toilet on tile?
Yes, caulking around the toilet on tile is a recommended thing to do. This is especially true if you have tile around the base of the toilet and in the shower/bathtub area. Caulking is important because, when done properly, it will help prevent water from getting behind your tile, which can cause water damage and/or mold growth.
Additionally, it can help to keep your home’s air quality better by preventing dust, mold spores, and other allergens from being trapped between the tiles and being stirred up when the toilet is used.
When doing the caulking, make sure to use the best grout for the tiles in your space and a high-quality siliconized acrylic caulk; these products are designed to be waterproof and should last for a long time with proper maintenance.
Additionally, pay attention to how much caulk and grout you use; if you use too much it can cause the toilet to be too high, which will make it difficult to properly clean.