How to Relocate a Toilet Drain: A Step-by-Step Guide

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How to Relocate a Toilet Drain

Your toilet is one of the most important fixtures in your home, and when it’s not working properly, it can be a major inconvenience. If your toilet drain is clogged, leaking, or in the wrong place, you may need to relocate it. Relocating a toilet drain is a relatively simple task, but it does require some planning and know-how. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of relocating a toilet drain, step-by-step.

We’ll cover everything from identifying the problem to choosing the right materials and tools. We’ll also provide tips on how to avoid common mistakes. By the end of this article, you’ll have the confidence to relocate your toilet drain like a pro.

Step Tools Instructions
1 Plumber’s snake Locate the main drain line in your basement or crawl space. If you can’t find it, you may need to call a plumber.
2 Plumber’s putty Apply plumber’s putty around the drain line where you want to relocate it.
3 Duct tape Use duct tape to secure the drain line to the new location.
4 New toilet flange Install a new toilet flange on the new drain line.
5 New toilet Install a new toilet on the new flange.

How to Relocate a Toilet Drain?

Tools and Materials Needed

To relocate a toilet drain, you will need the following tools and materials:

  • A hacksaw
  • A pipe cutter
  • A plunger
  • A bucket
  • A wet/dry vacuum
  • A utility knife
  • A pair of gloves
  • A new toilet flange
  • A new wax ring
  • A length of PVC pipe
  • A coupling
  • A set of plumber’s putty

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Turn off the water supply to the toilet. Locate the water supply valve and turn it clockwise to the off position. This will prevent any water from flowing into the toilet while you are working on it.
2. Remove the toilet tank lid. Lift up on the lid of the toilet tank and set it aside. This will give you access to the inside of the tank.
3. Disconnect the water supply line. Locate the water supply line that connects to the bottom of the toilet tank. Use a pair of pliers to loosen the nut that secures the water supply line to the toilet. Once the nut is loose, you can disconnect the water supply line from the toilet.
4. Remove the toilet bowl. There are two bolts that secure the toilet bowl to the floor. Use a hacksaw or a pipe cutter to cut the bolts. Once the bolts are cut, you can use a plunger to loosen the toilet bowl from the floor. Once the toilet bowl is loose, you can lift it up and set it aside.
5. Remove the old toilet flange. The toilet flange is a metal ring that sits on the floor and supports the toilet bowl. Use a utility knife to cut around the edge of the toilet flange. Once you have cut around the edge of the flange, you can use a pair of pliers to pry the flange up and out of the floor.
6. Install the new toilet flange. Apply a bead of plumber’s putty around the edge of the new toilet flange. Then, press the flange into the floor and tighten the bolts until the flange is secure.
7. Reattach the toilet bowl. Place the toilet bowl over the new toilet flange. Then, use the two bolts that you cut earlier to secure the toilet bowl to the floor.
8. Reconnect the water supply line. Connect the water supply line to the bottom of the toilet tank. Use a pair of pliers to tighten the nut that secures the water supply line to the toilet.
9. Turn on the water supply to the toilet. Turn the water supply valve clockwise to the on position. This will allow water to flow into the toilet.
10. Flush the toilet. Flush the toilet to make sure that the toilet is working properly.

Once you have completed these steps, you have successfully relocated your toilet drain.

3. Troubleshooting

If you’re having trouble relocating your toilet drain, here are a few things to check:

  • Make sure you have the right tools. You’ll need a plunger, a hacksaw, a screwdriver, a wrench, and a bucket.
  • Turn off the water supply to the toilet. This will prevent any water from leaking out while you’re working.
  • Disconnect the toilet from the water supply and drain lines. To do this, you’ll need to remove the nuts that connect the toilet to the water supply and drain lines.
  • Remove the toilet from the floor. To do this, you’ll need to lift the toilet up and out of the way.
  • Cut the floor flange. The floor flange is the metal ring that sits around the drain pipe. You’ll need to cut this flange so that you can move the toilet drain.
  • Reinstall the toilet. Once you’ve cut the floor flange, you can reinstall the toilet. Be sure to connect the toilet to the water supply and drain lines.
  • Turn on the water supply to the toilet. This will test your new toilet drain.

If you’re still having trouble, you may need to call a professional plumber.

4. Additional Tips

Here are a few additional tips for relocating a toilet drain:

  • Plan ahead. Before you start, make sure you have a plan of action. This will help you avoid any problems down the road.
  • Take your time. Relocating a toilet drain can be a time-consuming process. Don’t rush through it, or you’re more likely to make mistakes.
  • Be careful. When you’re working with plumbing, there’s always the potential for injury. Be careful not to cut yourself or damage any pipes.
  • Ask for help. If you’re not comfortable doing this project yourself, don’t be afraid to ask for help from a friend or family member.

By following these tips, you can successfully relocate your toilet drain without any problems.

Relocating a toilet drain is a relatively simple project that can be completed in a few hours. By following the steps in this guide, you can easily move your toilet drain to a new location.

How do I relocate a toilet drain?

1. Turn off the water supply to the toilet. This is usually located at the back of the toilet, near the floor. Turn the valve clockwise until it is completely closed.
2. Flush the toilet to drain any remaining water.
3. Remove the toilet bowl. There are two bolts on the back of the toilet that hold it in place. Use a wrench to loosen these bolts and remove the toilet bowl.
4. Locate the drain pipe. The drain pipe is the large pipe that connects the toilet to the sewer line. It is usually located in the floor, behind the toilet.
5. Cut the drain pipe. Use a hacksaw or reciprocating saw to cut the drain pipe at the desired location. Make sure to cut the pipe at a 45-degree angle.
6. Install a new drain pipe. Slide the new drain pipe into place and secure it with a coupling nut.
7. Reconnect the water supply to the toilet. Turn the valve clockwise until it is fully open.
8. Reinstall the toilet bowl. Place the toilet bowl over the drain pipe and secure it with the two bolts.
9. Flush the toilet to test the new drain. The toilet should flush properly without any leaks.

What tools do I need to relocate a toilet drain?

You will need the following tools to relocate a toilet drain:

  • A wrench
  • A hacksaw or reciprocating saw
  • A coupling nut
  • A plumber’s putty

How much does it cost to relocate a toilet drain?

The cost of relocating a toilet drain will vary depending on the size of the job and the location of the drain. The average cost is between $100 and $200.

Is it difficult to relocate a toilet drain?

Relocating a toilet drain is a relatively straightforward task, but it does require some basic plumbing skills. If you are not comfortable working with plumbing, it is best to hire a professional plumber.

What are the risks of relocating a toilet drain?

There are a few risks associated with relocating a toilet drain, including:

  • Water damage: If the drain is not properly sealed, it could leak and cause water damage to the surrounding area.
  • Sewer backup: If the drain is not installed correctly, it could allow sewer gases to back up into the home.
  • Health hazards: If the drain is not properly sealed, it could allow bacteria and other contaminants to enter the home.

How can I prevent leaks when relocating a toilet drain?

To prevent leaks when relocating a toilet drain, you should:

  • Make sure that the drain is properly sealed with plumber’s putty or sealant.
  • Use a coupling nut to connect the new drain pipe to the existing drain pipe.
  • Test the drain for leaks by flushing the toilet several times.

What are the signs of a leaking toilet drain?

There are a few signs that indicate a leaking toilet drain, including:

  • Water pooling under the toilet
  • A musty smell coming from the toilet
  • A gurgling sound coming from the toilet
  • The toilet flushing slowly or not at all

If you notice any of these signs, it is important to have the drain repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

In this article, we have discussed how to relocate a toilet drain. We have covered the steps involved in the process, as well as the tools and materials you will need. We have also provided tips on how to avoid common mistakes.

We hope that this article has been helpful and that you will be able to successfully relocate your toilet drain. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact a professional plumber.

Here are some key takeaways from this article:

  • Before you begin, make sure you have the necessary tools and materials.
  • Carefully follow the steps in the process to avoid making mistakes.
  • Be patient and take your time. Relocating a toilet drain can be a challenging task, but it is definitely doable.
  • If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact a professional plumber.

Author Profile

Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell is the owner of toiletty.com. She is a mom of two and is very passionate about home improvement.

Liana has ten years of home improvement experience, and in her own words, she said: “I love improving the home, and I’m very passionate about keeping the home in the best possible condition. I love it!”

Liana Farrell balances beauty and functionality when she goes about her home improvement jobs.