Does toilet flange sit on concrete or tile?

Author: Mrs. Hulda Bernhard I  |  Last update: Saturday, October 4, 2025

Screw Toilet Flange Onto Concrete With the toilet flange in place, you are ready to install the toilet with a new wax ring.

Should a toilet flange sit on top of tile?

the flange should be installed on the top of the finished floor (tile, vinyl, wood). as far as acceptable range, too high by even a little bit will prevent the toilet from setting on the floor (it will rock). the lower the flange, the thicker your wax ring or rings will need to be.

What does the toilet flange sit on?

The toilet flange, also known as a closet flange, is the part of the toilet that secures the unit to the floor and connects to the drain pipe. Usually made of PVC, rubber or metal, this piece is circular in shape and usually secured in place with a few bolts.

Should toilet flange be screwed to concrete floor?

The flange should be fastened to the floor. Dry fit the toilet to make sure it doesn't rock. If it does rock, use shims to prevent rocking - just tightening the bolts probably will not stop the rocking but will risk cracking the toilet or breaking the flange.

What holds a toilet flange in place?

The flange is also anchored to the subfloor with a rust-proof screw keeping it stable and free from movement. A wax ring mounted on the closet flange creates a watertight seal between the bottom of the toilet and the closet flange, preventing any leaks, odors or sewer gases from escaping the fixture.

90% of Toilets Are Installed Wrong (Here’s the Right Way)

How is a toilet flange secured to the floor?

Secure flange with screws or anchors

Secure the flange to the subfloor, below the finished floor using the approved screws and anchors. Note: Screws should pass through the finished floor and be secured into the subfloor.

Should a toilet flange be anchored to the floor?

A best practice is to install the toilet flange on top of the finished floor. If you install the toilet flange flush with the finished floor, or even below the finished floor, leak paths will form, because the flange won't be at the correct height to accept the horn at the bottom of the toilet.

What if toilet flange sits too high on concrete floor?

If the flange is too high, you can carefully trim it to the correct height. This can be done using a hacksaw or an angle grinder.

Do you use PVC cement on a toilet flange?

Apply cement

Apply Oatey® Heavy Duty Clear PVC Cement using approved application methods to the flange and drainpipe.

Why is my toilet not attached to the floor?

The most common culprit for a loose toilet is the flange or flange bolts. Looking from the front of the toilet, check the flange bolts which are situated on each side of the toilet. If the bolts are loose, use a pair of pliers to carefully tighten the bolts until they are snug.

How far should a toilet flange stick above the floor?

The correct height for a toilet flange is about 1/4 inch above the floor, which should be finished. Always install the floor before the toilet flange, making sure it is level to prevent leaks or a rocking base. This height will work with pretty much any type of wax ring, allowing a good seal.

Should you caulk around a toilet?

Reasons to Caulk Around a Toilet

Moisture Prevention: Without caulk around the toilet base, external water can seep under the toilet, leading to floor and subfloor damage over time. This is especially important in bathrooms with wooden floors, as prolonged exposure to moisture can lead to rot and structural issues.

How often should a toilet flange be replaced?

Flanges last for about 5-20 years. Worn-out flanges will no longer create a tight seal between the toilet and outflow pipe. As a result, when you flush, the toilet will leak at the base. By replacing the closet flange you will be able to stop the base from leaking.

Is it better to put wax ring on toilet or flange?

Position the new toilet wax ring on top of the toilet flange, ensuring it is centered. Want to know more about choosing the correct wax ring size, crucial installation tips, and other frequently asked questions?

Should you install toilet or floor first?

Here's why flooring should come first: It creates a seamless appearance without visible gaps. Flooring beneath the toilet reduces the risk of leaks and prevents water damage to the subflooring. This method makes future toilet replacements easier.

Do you tile around toilet flange?

The answer is, in most cases, that you should tile under the toilet flange and toilet tank. This allows for the toilet flange to be secured with the use of bolts. Only in a minority of use cases does the flange go beneath the tiles.

How do you anchor a toilet flange to concrete?

Use Tapcon anchors or a similar type of masonry/concrete screw to fasten the toilet flange to the concrete slab. If using a plastic flange ring, be careful not to crack the ring by screwing the anchors in too far. With the toilet flange in place, you are ready to install the toilet with a new wax ring.

Can you use twist and set toilet flange with PVC?

Customers say the Oatey PVC Twist-n-Set Open Flange is easy to install and provides a secure fit for both PVC and cast iron pipes. Many users appreciate its innovative twist-to-tighten design, which eliminates the need for adhesives and allows for adjustments during installation.

What holds toilet flange to floor?

Also called toilet bolts or T-bolts, closet bolts secure the flange to the flooring.

How to seal a toilet flange?

  1. Remove broken flange. Remove the broken or corroded sections of the flange.
  2. Apply silicone. Apply a liberal amount of 100% silicone sealant to the top of the remaining parts of the flange.
  3. Install Repair Ring. ...
  4. Secure Bolts. ...
  5. Allow silicone to cure.

How to fix a gap between a toilet and a wall?

Toilet tank braces can be adjusted to fit the gap between your tank and wall. Clipped on back edge of tank, under lid, braces are practically invisible when installed. Anchor your tanks with Secure-A-Tank to protect against costly leaks and repairs.

Can you replace toilet flange bolts without removing the toilet?

A: No, you must remove the toilet to access and replace the flange.

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