Last Updated on January 11, 2023 by acechapman
Toilet flanges are a type of plumbing link that connects your toilet bowl and the sewage line. It is an essential link to the toilet. This connection can cause serious problems if it is not properly installed or damaged. The toilet flange uses a wax ring to seal the toilet and prevent leakages once its installation is correct. Continue reading to find out about toilet flange types.
A toilet flange is generally a circular material with many perforations. These perforations are used to secure the flange to ground level and the sewage drain pipe. The toilet is then securely attached to the flange.
Because the impermeable seal has been created, waste can easily travel from the toilet to the sewer line. Therefore, you don’t need to worry about waste leaking into the environment and causing a mess. It would be very unpleasant to see all the stinky human wastes leak out.
Different Toilet Flange Types
There are many types of toilet flange. Toilet flanges are made from a variety of materials, including PVC, stainless, brass, copper, and so on.
Polyvinyl Chloride
A PVC (polyvinyl chloride) flange is a type of flange that is commonly used in plumbing systems. It is a type of plastic flange that is used to connect PVC pipes and fittings together. PVC flanges are typically used in drainage, waste, and vent systems.
PVC flanges have several advantages over other types of flanges. They are lightweight and easy to install, making them a popular choice for DIY projects. They are also resistant to corrosion and chemicals, making them suitable for use in a wide range of applications. PVC flanges are also relatively inexpensive, making them a cost-effective option.
PVC flanges come in a variety of sizes and styles to fit different types of pipes and applications. The most common types include slip flanges, which are inserted into the pipe, and threaded flanges, which are screwed onto the pipe. There are also PVC flanges that have built-in gaskets, which help to prevent leaks.
Cast Iron
A cast iron flange is a type of flange that is commonly used in plumbing and HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems. It is made by pouring molten iron into a mold, which forms the flange to a specific shape and size. Cast iron flanges are known for their durability and strength, which makes them well-suited for use in a wide range of applications.
Cast iron flanges are often used in drainage and waste systems, particularly in older buildings. They are also commonly used in HVAC systems, where they are used to connect ductwork and other components. The material can withstand high-temperature and pressure, and also could handle some chemical exposure.
Cast iron flanges come in a variety of sizes and styles to fit different types of pipes and applications. The most common types include raised face flanges, which have a raised surface on the face of the flange, and ring joint flanges, which have a groove on the face of the flange.
Stainless Steel
A stainless steel flange is a type of flange that is made from stainless steel. Stainless steel is a type of steel that contains chromium, which gives it its corrosion-resistant properties. They are known for their strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion and chemical damage, which makes them well-suited for use in a wide range of applications.
Moreover, stainless steel flanges are commonly used in industrial applications such as chemical processing, petrochemical, and oil and gas production, as well as in water treatment plants and marine environments. They are also used in food processing and medical equipment, thanks to their resistance to corrosion and ease to clean and sterilize.
Stainless steel flanges come in a variety of sizes and styles to fit different types of pipes and applications. The most common types include Slip-on flanges, which slip over the pipe and are then welded in place, and weld neck flanges, which have a protruding neck that is welded to the pipe. Blind flanges, used to close off a pipe, and lap joint flanges, used for easy disassembly and cleaning, are also common types.
Common Problems with Flanges
Blockages
Blocked-up flanges can cause toilet floods. If you have the correct equipment and can reach the obstruction, it’s easy to repair. To remove the blockage, all you need is a wire.
If you are unable to access the blockage and have no idea what to do, it is best to contact a plumber.
Cracked Wax Ring
Another common reason for liquid accumulation in your toilet is weak or cracked wax rings. If the wax ring is not tight enough, it can cause serious problems with your toilet and flange.
It is easy to change the wax ring on a toilet. However, it is important to do it correctly in order to prevent it from happening again. It’s better to keep it sealed.
Change of Flooring
Changes in flooring can also cause flange problems. The most important step in bathroom flooring refinishing is the installation of the flange.
Keep the toilet flanges in your mind when you are installing new tiles or renovating the bathroom and changing the floors. A flange extender can be used to bring the flange up to the right height.
What are the signs you may have a damaged flange?
Wobbly Toilet
Rocking or shaking of the toilet is a sign that your toilet flange is wearing out. Your toilet may shake because of a faulty flange. Before removing the commode from the floor, check that all bolts are tight. A loose toilet can cause serious damage to the flange, which may not need replacement.
Bad Odor
The flange could have cracked if you smell bad in your toilet but there are no leaks at its bottom.
Even if the flange has a small crack, it is still a crack. Thus, causing the smells to escape. It’s not something you can tolerate even for a moment, trust me! If the flange is damaged, it will likely allow waste to escape the toilet’s bottom if it isn’t repaired.
How To Replace A Toilet Flange
We recommend hiring a professional plumber to replace a toilet flange. It’s possible to do it yourself if you have some plumbing knowledge or interest in trying it.
You can change the flange yourself for as little as $30 at your local home improvement store.
Steps To Replace A Toilet Flange
- Turn off the water supply to the toilet by closing the shut-off valve, which is typically located behind the toilet or nearby in the bathroom.
- Drain the toilet tank and bowl by flushing the toilet and holding down the handle.
- Use a putty knife to remove the wax ring from the base of the toilet. Then, use a pipe wrench or pliers to disconnect the toilet from the flange by removing the two bolts that hold the toilet in place.
- Use a reciprocating saw or a jigsaw to cut the old flange out of the flooring.
- Clean the area around the opening, removing any debris or old glue.
- Measure the diameter of the pipe and choose a new flange that fits tightly around it.
- Place the new flange into the opening, making sure it’s level and flush with the floor.
- Secure the flange in place by attaching it to the pipe with screws or with a flange adhesive.
- Reinstall the toilet by placing the bolts into the flange and attaching the toilet.
- Apply a new wax ring to the base of the toilet and press it down firmly.
- Finally, turn the water supply back on and test for leaks.
Wrapping Up
Your entire plumbing system is dependent on the toilet flange. Without it, the bowl cannot attach to the floor. There are many types of toilet flange, but the most common sizes are 4×3 inches and round.
These features are important to consider when replacing an old toilet flange. You can then purchase the exact same part and have it installed instead.
Pick A Toilet may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page.
