What to Do If Your Toilet Flange Is Too High

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What to Do If Your Toilet Flange Is Too High

Your toilet flange is a critical part of your plumbing system. It’s the metal ring that connects your toilet to the drainpipe, and it helps to keep your toilet water-tight. But what happens if your toilet flange is too high?

A toilet flange that’s too high can cause a number of problems, including:

  • Leaks: If the flange is too high, it can create a gap between the toilet and the drainpipe. This gap can allow water to leak out of the toilet, which can damage your floor and create a mess.
  • Damage to your toilet: A toilet that’s not properly supported by the flange can sag and crack. This can damage the toilet itself, and it can also make it difficult to use.
  • Flooding: If the flange is too high, it can also allow water to back up into your toilet bowl. This can overflow the toilet and cause flooding in your bathroom.

If you think your toilet flange is too high, there are a few things you can do to fix the problem. You can:

  • Lower the toilet: If your toilet is on a raised platform, you can lower the platform to bring the toilet down to the correct height.
  • Reinstall the toilet: If the toilet is not on a platform, you can remove the toilet and reinstall it at the correct height.
  • Replace the toilet flange: If the flange itself is too high, you can replace it with a new flange that’s the correct height.

By following these steps, you can fix a toilet flange that’s too high and prevent any of the problems that come with it.

| Step | Action | Explanation |
|—|—|—|
| 1 | Shut off the water supply to the toilet. | This will prevent any water from leaking out of the toilet while you’re working on it. |
| 2 | Remove the toilet tank lid. | This will give you access to the bolts that hold the toilet to the floor. |
| 3 | Loosen the bolts that hold the toilet to the floor. | You may need to use a wrench or pliers to do this. |
| 4 | Lift up on the toilet and slide it away from the flange. | Be careful not to damage the toilet bowl or the floor. |
| 5 | Use a saw or grinder to cut the flange down so that it’s level with the floor. | Make sure you cut the flange evenly so that the toilet will sit flat on the floor. |
| 6 | Reinstall the toilet. | Make sure the bolts are tight enough to hold the toilet in place, but not so tight that you damage the toilet bowl. |
| 7 | Turn the water supply back on. | The toilet should now be working properly. |

A toilet flange is a metal or plastic ring that connects the toilet to the drainpipe. It is important for the flange to be installed correctly so that the toilet sits level and the seal between the toilet and the drainpipe is watertight. If the toilet flange is too high, it can cause a number of problems, including:

  • The toilet may not sit level, which can lead to leaks and other problems.
  • The toilet may be difficult to flush, as the water will not be able to flow properly into the drainpipe.
  • The toilet may overflow, as the water will not be able to drain properly.

In this article, we will discuss how to identify if your toilet flange is too high, the potential consequences of a high toilet flange, and the options for lowering a toilet flange. We will also provide instructions on how to properly install a new toilet flange.

Identifying the Problem

There are a few ways to tell if your toilet flange is too high.

  • The toilet does not sit level. If the toilet is not sitting level, it is likely that the flange is too high. You can check the level of the toilet by using a level. If the toilet is not level, you will need to lower the flange.
  • The toilet is difficult to flush. If the toilet is difficult to flush, it may be because the flange is too high. The water will not be able to flow properly into the drainpipe, which can make it difficult to get the toilet to flush.
  • The toilet overflows. If the toilet overflows, it is likely that the flange is too high. The water will not be able to drain properly, which can cause the toilet to overflow.

If you think that your toilet flange is too high, you should have it checked by a plumber. A plumber will be able to determine if the flange is actually too high and, if necessary, lower it.

Common Causes of a High Toilet Flange

There are a few common causes of a high toilet flange.

  • Improper installation. The most common cause of a high toilet flange is improper installation. When a toilet is installed, the flange must be installed at the correct height. If the flange is installed too high, it will cause problems with the toilet.
  • Sagging floor. Another common cause of a high toilet flange is a sagging floor. If the floor is sagging, it can cause the flange to be installed too high.
  • Damaged flange. A damaged flange can also cause the flange to be installed too high. If the flange is damaged, it may need to be replaced.

Potential Consequences of a High Toilet Flange

A high toilet flange can cause a number of problems, including:

  • Leaks. If the toilet flange is too high, it can cause leaks. The water will not be able to drain properly, which can lead to leaks under the toilet.
  • Difficulty flushing. A high toilet flange can also make it difficult to flush the toilet. The water will not be able to flow properly into the drainpipe, which can make it difficult to get the toilet to flush.
  • Overflows. A high toilet flange can also cause the toilet to overflow. The water will not be able to drain properly, which can cause the toilet to overflow.

If you are experiencing any of these problems, you should have your toilet flange checked by a plumber. A plumber will be able to determine if the flange is actually too high and, if necessary, lower it.

Determining the Best Solution

There are a few different options for lowering a toilet flange. The best solution for you will depend on the specific situation.

  • Lowering the toilet. One option is to lower the toilet. This can be done by removing the toilet from the floor and then reinstalling it at a lower height. This is a relatively simple solution, but it can be difficult to get the toilet to sit level.
  • Lowering the flange. Another option is to lower the flange. This can be done by cutting the flange down and then reinstalling it at a lower height. This is a more difficult solution, but it can be more effective than lowering the toilet.
  • Installing a new toilet flange. A third option is to install a new toilet flange. This is the most expensive solution, but it is also the most effective. A new toilet flange will be installed at the correct height and will ensure that the toilet sits level.

How to Properly Install a New Toilet Flange

Installing a new toilet flange is a relatively simple process, but it is important to do it correctly. If the flange is not installed correctly, it can cause a number of problems, including leaks and difficulty flushing.

What To Do If Toilet Flange Is Too High?

A toilet flange is a metal ring that sits between the toilet and the drainpipe. It helps to create a seal between the two, preventing leaks. If your toilet flange is too high, it can cause a number of problems, including:

  • Leaks from the toilet
  • A slow-draining toilet
  • A toilet that is difficult to flush

If you think your toilet flange is too high, there are a few things you can do to fix the problem.

1. Check the height of the toilet flange.

The first step is to check the height of the toilet flange. To do this, you will need to remove the toilet from the floor. Once the toilet is removed, you will be able to see the toilet flange. The flange should be about 1 inch below the finished floor. If it is higher than that, it is too high.

2. Lower the toilet flange.

If the toilet flange is too high, you will need to lower it. You can do this by using a hacksaw or a grinder to cut the flange down. Once you have cut the flange down, you will need to reattach the toilet to the floor.

3. Use a wax ring.

When you reattach the toilet to the floor, you will need to use a wax ring. A wax ring is a rubber ring that creates a seal between the toilet and the drainpipe. It is important to use a new wax ring when you reattach the toilet.

4. Test the toilet.

Once you have reattached the toilet, you will need to test it to make sure that the problem is fixed. Flush the toilet and look for leaks. If there are no leaks, the problem is fixed.

If you are unable to fix the problem yourself, you may need to call a plumber. A plumber can remove the toilet and lower the flange for you. They can also install a new wax ring.

Avoiding Future Problems

Once you have fixed the problem with your toilet flange, you can take steps to prevent it from happening again. Here are a few tips:

  • Make sure that the toilet is installed properly. The toilet should be level and the flange should be properly seated.
  • Use a wax ring when you install the toilet. A wax ring creates a seal between the toilet and the drainpipe. It is important to use a new wax ring each time you install a toilet.
  • Maintain your toilet. Keep the toilet clean and free of debris. A dirty toilet can cause the flange to become loose.

By following these tips, you can help to prevent your toilet flange from becoming too high again.

Tips for Maintaining Your Toilet

In addition to taking steps to prevent your toilet flange from becoming too high, you can also take steps to maintain your toilet. Here are a few tips:

  • Flush the toilet regularly. Flushing the toilet helps to remove debris and keep the toilet clean.
  • Clean the toilet bowl regularly. You can clean the toilet bowl with a toilet brush and a cleaning solution.
  • Replace the toilet tank flapper regularly. The toilet tank flapper is a rubber seal that controls the flow of water into the toilet bowl. It is important to replace the flapper regularly to prevent leaks.
  • Check the water level in the toilet tank. The water level in the toilet tank should be about 1 inch below the overflow pipe. If the water level is too high, it can cause the toilet to overflow.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your toilet in good working order.

Resources

  • [Toilet Flanges: How to Install and Repair](https://www.familyhandyman.com/plumbing/toilets/toilet-flanges-how-to-install-and-repair/)
  • [How to Lower a Toilet Flange](https://www.thisoldhouse.com/plumbing/how-to-lower-a-toilet-flange)
  • [How to Maintain Your Toilet](https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-maintain-your-toilet-4172054)

Here are some contact numbers for plumbers and other plumbing professionals:

  • [National Association of Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling Contractors](https://www.phcc.org/)
  • [American Society of Plumbing Engineers](https://www.aspe.org/)
  • [International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials](https://www.iAPMO.org/)

    What is a toilet flange?

A toilet flange is a metal or plastic ring that connects the toilet to the drainpipe. It is important that the flange is installed correctly so that the toilet sits level and does not leak.

What happens if a toilet flange is too high?

If a toilet flange is too high, the toilet will not sit level and may leak. This can cause a number of problems, including:

  • Water damage to the floor and surrounding area
  • Mold and mildew growth
  • Health problems from exposure to contaminated water

How can I tell if my toilet flange is too high?

There are a few ways to tell if your toilet flange is too high.

  • Visual inspection: If you look under the toilet, you should be able to see the toilet flange. It should be level with the floor and should not be sticking up above the floor.
  • With a level: You can also use a level to check the toilet flange. Place the level on the floor under the toilet and make sure that the flange is level.
  • With a measuring tape: You can also use a measuring tape to check the height of the toilet flange. Measure from the floor to the top of the flange. The flange should be no more than 1/2 inch above the floor.

How do I fix a toilet flange that is too high?

There are a few ways to fix a toilet flange that is too high.

  • Option 1: Cut the flange down. This is the most common and easiest way to fix a toilet flange that is too high. Simply use a hacksaw or grinder to cut the flange down until it is level with the floor.
  • Option 2: Add a shim under the flange. If you do not want to cut the flange down, you can also add a shim under the flange to raise it up to the correct height. You can use a piece of wood, metal, or even cardboard as a shim.
  • Option 3: Replace the flange. If the flange is damaged or corroded, you may need to replace it entirely. This is a more involved process, but it is the best way to ensure that the flange is installed correctly.

How can I prevent a toilet flange from becoming too high in the future?

There are a few things you can do to prevent a toilet flange from becoming too high in the future.

  • Use the right tools and materials when installing the flange. Make sure that you use the right size flange for your toilet and that you install it correctly.
  • Check the height of the flange before you install the toilet. Make sure that the flange is level with the floor and is not sticking up above the floor.
  • Use a shim if necessary. If the flange is not level, you can use a shim to raise it up to the correct height.

By following these tips, you can help prevent a toilet flange from becoming too high and avoid the problems that come with it.

In this article, we discussed the causes of a toilet flange being too high and the steps to take to fix the problem. We hope this information was helpful and that you were able to successfully fix your toilet flange.

Here are the key takeaways from this article:

  • A toilet flange that is too high can cause a number of problems, including leaks, overflows, and difficulty flushing.
  • The most common cause of a toilet flange being too high is incorrect installation.
  • To fix a toilet flange that is too high, you will need to remove the toilet, lower the flange, and reinstall the toilet.
  • If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, you can hire a plumber to fix the problem for you.

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.