The size of a toilet flange bolt can vary depending on the type of toilet flange, but typically they measure between 3/8″ and 1/2″ in diameter. The length of the bolt usually depends on the application, and can range from 1″ to 4″ inches long.
Generally, you will want to secure your flange to the floor with lag bolts that measure 1/4″ diameter, at least 2″ long. More lag bolts may be needed depending on the type of flange being used. It is also important to remember that the number and size of lag bolts should be sufficient to ensure a solid and secure connection between the tank and the floor below.
What bolts do you use for toilet flange?
When installing a toilet flange, you typically use 8 flat bolts. These are specially designed to fit the holes in the flange and the toilet bowl, and should be made from corrosion resistant metal. To fix the bolts in place, you need to take care to not over tighten them.
To secure the bolts, you can use a specialized washer and nut, as well as a rubber sealant to ensure the bolts remain secure and don’t cause any future leakage issues. If you’re replacing a toilet flange, you may need to remove the old bolts, which may require a power drill, ladder, leveller and other tools.
What size wrench do I need to tighten a toilet bolt?
The size of wrench you need to tighten a toilet bolt depends on the type of toilet you are working with. If you have a traditional tank toilet with a pressure-assisted flush, you will need a 1/2-inch open-end wrench to loosen and tighten the nut on the bottom of the tank.
If you have a tankless toilet with a one-piece design, you typically need a socket wrench with a 7/16-inch socket to secure the bolts at the bottom of the toilet bowl. When possible, it is best to take the index card with the mounting hardware to the hardware store to make sure you get the right wrench size.
Additionally, you may need hardware such as plumber’s putty or a wax gasket if the hardware is visibly worn or rusted. You should also make sure to check that the tank is correctly leveled to help prevent leaks when tightening the bolts.
How do you get toilet bolts to stay?
It’s important to ensure that your toilet bolts are properly secured so that your toilet stays in place. To do this, you should begin by applying plumber’s putty to the threads of the bolts prior to attaching them.
After the putty is in place, you should secure the bolts with a wrench to ensure a tight fit. You may also use a washer and nut combination with never-seize lubricant for optimal security. Make sure that the washer is slightly larger than the bolt, so that it can’t back out of the toilet.
If you have access to the underside of your toilet, you can also add nuts and washers onto the bolts from below for extra support. Lastly, once the bolts are securely in place, fix them in position with a dollop of adhesive caulk or acrylic sealant to complete the job.
How do I keep my toilet flange from moving?
To keep a toilet flange from moving, it’s important to ensure it is bolted securely to the floor. No matter what type of toilet flange you are using, be it PVC, steel, or brass, start by inspecting the flange to ensure it is flush against the floor.
If not, use a hammer to gently tap it into place before proceeding.
Once the flange is properly positioned, use a screwdriver or drill to attach 3-4 screws, evenly spaced, into the flange. For harder materials, such as steel or brass, use a more powerful drill and a specialized bit designed for the particular material.
When drilling the screws, use care to ensure they do not penetrate into the flange hole, which can cause damage if it is too deep.
Once the screws are in place, they should be able to hold the flange in place. To reinforce the hold, tight sealant around the edge of the flange can be applied. For PVC, pipe cement works well, while steel and brass may require specialized metallic sealants.
This will further bond the flange with the floor and keep it from shifting.
Does a toilet flange have to be bolted to the floor?
Yes, a toilet flange must be bolted to the floor in order to ensure a secure connection to the toilet and waste system. It typically requires four lag bolts that are locked into the floor joist or sub-floor.
If the flange is not securely bolted to the floor, it can lead to seal failure, leakage, unpleasant odors, and other issues. Therefore, proper installation of a toilet flange is important.
To install a toilet flange, it is important to first make sure the flange’s lip lies level with the finished floor. To heighten the flange, a wax ring underneath the flange is recommended. Then the flange should be secured to the floor using lag bolts.
After the lag bolts are installed, the toilet can then be set in place and the bolts tightened up. It is important to leave the toilet slightly elevated before tightening in order to make sure a good seal is created with the wax ring.
Once the toilet is secured, the waste line can be connected to the flange and the bathroom is ready for use.
Do you need to screw toilet flange to concrete?
Yes, a toilet flange needs to be securely fastened to the concrete floor. To do this, you’ll need to use specialized screws, such as concrete screws or powder-actuated fasteners and secure the flange to the subfloor.
Before screwing the flange to the concrete, it’s important to ensure that the concrete is clean and level. Concrete screws should be installed perpendicular to the toilet flange and be deep enough to ensure the flange is firmly seated.
If there are no pre-drilled holes in the toilet flange, you’ll need to drill holes yourself before attaching. Once all screws are securely anchored, you can then install the toilet. After installation, you may want to caulk the flange to ensure a tight seal.