Can You Really Put A Toilet Flange Below The Floor Level? Here’s The Truth!

When installing or replacing a toilet, ensuring that the toilet flange is at the correct level is crucial for proper drainage and a secure fit. However, in certain situations, you may encounter a scenario where the toilet flange is below floor level. This can pose challenges and raise questions about the feasibility of installing a toilet. This blog post will delve into the topic of “can toilet flange be below floor level?” by exploring the options available and the considerations to keep in mind.

Understanding the Toilet Flange

The toilet flange is a metal or plastic ring that is installed on the floor and serves as the base for the toilet bowl. It provides a secure connection between the toilet and the drainpipe, ensuring proper waste removal. The flange should be level with the floor surface to allow for a flush and secure fit of the toilet bowl.

Can a Toilet Flange Be Below Floor Level?

The answer to this question is yes, it is possible for a toilet flange to be below floor level. However, this is not the ideal scenario and can present certain challenges. A toilet flange that is below floor level can make it difficult to install the toilet bowl properly, as the base of the bowl may not rest flush on the flange. This can lead to leaks, wobbly toilets, and drainage issues.

Options for Dealing with a Toilet Flange Below Floor Level

If you find yourself in a situation where the toilet flange is below floor level, you have several options to address the issue:

1. Raise the Toilet Flange:

The most straightforward solution is to raise the toilet flange to floor level. This involves removing the existing flange and installing a new one at the correct height. This option requires some plumbing knowledge and may involve cutting into the floor to access the flange.

2. Use a Toilet Flange Extender:

A toilet flange extender is a device that can be installed on top of the existing flange to raise its height. This is a less invasive option than raising the flange but may not be as secure or durable.

3. Install a Toilet with a Built-In Flange:

Some toilets come with a built-in flange that extends below the base of the bowl. This allows the toilet to be installed directly on the floor, even if the flange is below floor level.

4. Create a Subfloor:

In some cases, it may be necessary to create a subfloor around the toilet flange to raise it to floor level. This involves building a platform or base that extends the floor surface to the desired height.

Considerations for Installing a Toilet with a Flange Below Floor Level

If you decide to proceed with installing a toilet with a flange below floor level, it is important to keep the following considerations in mind:

• Proper Drainage: Ensure that the toilet bowl has a proper slope for drainage. This may require using a wax ring or other sealing material to create a watertight connection between the bowl and the flange.
• Stability: The toilet should be securely fastened to the floor to prevent wobbling or movement. Use bolts or screws to anchor the toilet to the flange and the subfloor if necessary.
• Maintenance: Toilets with flanges below floor level may be more difficult to maintain. Accessing the flange for repairs or cleaning may require removing the toilet bowl or cutting into the floor.

Recommendations: Weighing the Options

Whether or not it is feasible to install a toilet with a flange below floor level depends on the specific circumstances and the available options. Raising the flange to floor level is the most ideal solution, but it may not always be practical or cost-effective. Using a toilet flange extender or installing a toilet with a built-in flange can be viable alternatives, but they may come with certain limitations or durability concerns. Creating a subfloor is a more invasive option but can provide a secure and stable base for the toilet. Ultimately, the best decision will depend on the individual situation and the homeowner’s preferences.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

1. What are the signs of a toilet flange that is below floor level?

• Difficulty installing the toilet bowl flush on the flange
• Leaks around the base of the toilet
• Wobbly or unstable toilet
• Drainage issues

2. Is it safe to install a toilet with a flange below floor level?

It is not ideal, but it can be done with proper considerations for drainage, stability, and maintenance.

3. What is the best way to raise a toilet flange that is below floor level?

The most effective way is to remove the existing flange and install a new one at the correct height.

4. Can I use a toilet flange extender if the flange is slightly below floor level?

Yes, a toilet flange extender can be used to raise the flange slightly, but it may not be as secure or durable as a raised flange.

5. How can I prevent leaks if I install a toilet with a flange below floor level?

Use a wax ring or other sealing material to create a watertight connection between the toilet bowl and the flange.