Should bathroom flooring go under the toilet?

Author: Ashly Green I  |  Last update: Friday, January 23, 2026

Decisions About the Toilet The toilet flange then goes atop after you install tiles for the bathroom flooring. Unless you are in a situation where it is impossible to redo the floor tile due to the flange already being put in, never put the tiles below the existing toilet and the flange.

Do you put flooring under a toilet?

Toilets must be removed before a flooring is installed in a bathroom. It is a plumber's job, but a bathroom installer which includes flooring installing, must do the job.

Should flooring go down before the toilet?

Install the new floor first before installing the toilet. This ensures a proper and stable flooring surface, and it makes it easier to position and seal the toilet later.

Should I remove the toilet before installing vinyl plank flooring?

It's always better to remove the toilet and reinstall it with a new wax ring. This way you can run the flooring underneath and it looks so much better.

Do you have to remove a toilet to install laminate flooring?

Step-by-Step Laminate Flooring Fitting Guide. Step: Remove any existing flooring, baseboards, and fixtures (such as toilets). Ensure the subfloor is clean, dry, and level.

I Have Been Laying Tiles For 30 Years, But Never Seen Such Technique

Does flooring go under a bathroom vanity?

Generally, flooring contractors prefer that the cabinets go in first so that there is less possibility of the floor getting scratched. Cabinet installers like the floor to be in place so that the cutting and dust from the floor installation will not damage the vanity.

Does vinyl go under toilet?

Fitting vinyl around toilets and basins

Use scissors to cut in from the edge in a straight line to the centre of the pedestal. Next, make a series of cuts in the vinyl around the base of the pedestal or toilet until the sheet lies flat. Be careful not to cut too far in, or tear the vinyl.

Do you need to remove a toilet to a tile floor?

Decisions About the Toilet

What this means in practical terms is that you should always remove the toilet if you are renovating it, in order to place tiles beneath the toilet on the new bathroom floor. The toilet flange then goes atop after you install tiles for the bathroom flooring.

Can you put a toilet on floating vinyl plank flooring?

Yes, you can use LVP in bathroom, but don't let the water sit on it for too long or get under it. It may cause mold growth or bad smell and you won't know where it's coming from. So protect the edges and make sure to install it properly. If you decide on a floating floor, tell the contractor about this.

Should laminate flooring go under or around toilet?

For the Best Look, Remove the Toilet First

If you aren't too concerned with the finished look, then you might be able to install flooring with the toilet in place, just don't expect a picture-perfect finished look. However, if you want the best final result, take the extra step of removing the toilet first.

What do you put between toilet and floor?

You will want a high-quality, waterproof caulk specifically for bathroom use to meet the code. These caulks will withstand the extra moisture and wear of a bathroom. Silicone bathroom caulk tends to perform best for sealing toilets. It's water-resistant and flexible.

What is the best flooring for a bathroom?

In terms of withstanding moisture and humidity, luxury vinyl tiles (LVT), vinyl roll, and porcelain or ceramic tile are the best bathroom flooring options. Each of these flooring options is water-resistant and able to withstand humidity and temperature changes in a bathroom.

Should a vanity go on top of vinyl plank flooring?

Heavy cabinets, vanities, islands, and such, should never be installed on top of LooseLay flooring with limited adhesive. Instead, we recommend you install vinyl flooring next to cabinets. Pro Tip: Install the cabinets first if you believe the cabinets will remain a fixture for years longer than the flooring.

What do you put under bathroom flooring?

Install a cement-based backer board following the manufacturer's instructions. This provides a solid surface under the tile that prevents flexing that could lead to cracking. Backer board panels typically measure 3-feet by 5-feet and can be trimmed as needed. To cut backer board, measure and mark the size you need.

Should you seal under a toilet?

According to the International Plumbing Code (2012 edition) and the Uniform Plumbing Code (2009 edition), sealing the joint where fixtures meet the floor is required. Failing to caulk your toilet could result in noncompliance with these codes, which may lead to issues during home inspections or resale.

Do you install a toilet before flooring?

Professional contractors generally recommend installing new flooring before placing the toilet.

Can you install bathroom flooring without removing toilet?

The good news is that you can install vinyl flooring without taking out the toilet, making the process faster and simpler. However, it is crucial to pay special attention to the area around the toilet base. Vinyl needs to be cut precisely to fit around the toilet, ensuring no gaps where water could seep underneath.

Do I have to remove the toilet to install vinyl plank flooring?

If you are installing vinyl planks in a bathroom, you may need to temporarily remove the toilet, or you can install around it. If the subfloor is not level, you can fix low spots with a self-leveling product and sand or grind down high spots. Tip: Do not try to sand down old vinyl flooring, as it may contain asbestos.

Is vinyl flooring pee proof?

Ultimately, while vinyl flooring can be resistant to pet urine, it's still important to take steps to prevent accidents and clean up any spills promptly to protect your flooring investment.

Do I need underlayment for vinyl flooring in bathroom?

Moisture Barrier

Even though vinyl flooring is waterproof, your subfloor isn't. That's why an underlayment acting as a moisture barrier is essential.

Does laminate flooring go under or around toilet?

Before you begin installing the laminate flooring, you must remove any fixtures in your bathroom, such as the toilet or pedestal sink. If you have a cabinet built into the bathroom, you will leave it and install flooring around it.

Where should you not use laminate flooring?

Because the inner core of the material is made with wood or fiberboard that is susceptible to moisture damage, installations in any room with a floor drain or sump pump should be avoided. This also applies to bathrooms and laundry rooms; however, kitchen installation is more feasible.

Is vinyl flooring in bathrooms pros and cons?

LVP flooring shines in environments prone to moisture and spills thanks to its water-resistant nature, making it a strong contender for busy family bathrooms or en-suites. However, it's essential to note that while LVP is resilient, it might not stand up to deep scratches or gouges, as well as ceramic tile flooring.

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