Toilet flanges are a crucial component of any toilet installation. However, homeowners often overlook them until they experience a problem. The flange, a circular piece installed on the floor at the toilet’s location, serves as the connection between the toilet and the sewer pipe. A toilet flange is essential for proper toilet operation and to prevent unpleasant and unsanitary sewerage leakages. We’ll be taking a closer look at the toilet flange, its function, and why it is so important to your plumbing system in this blog post.
What is a toilet flange?
As mentioned previously, the toilet flange is a cylindrical piece that is placed on the floor and connects to the waste pipes. The flange can be made from cast iron, PVC or brass. It has a hole in its center that corresponds with the size of the waste pipes. The flange is bolted or screwed into the floor. A raised lip on the outside edges creates a seal between toilet and wastepipe. The toilet bowl can then be attached to the floor flange by bolts. It creates a tight, secure connection.
How does a toilet flange work?
Your toilet flange has several functions. It is responsible for securing the connection between the toilet and waste pipe. This connection is crucial because it prevents leaks, and ensures that your wastewater is properly transported from your home. If the flange is not properly installed, the toilet may shift or wobble and cause damage to the wax ring which seals the toilet to its waste pipe. This can lead to water damage, unpleasant odors, or leaks.
The toilet flange not only provides a secure connection but also allows wastewater to be directed into the waste pipe. The raised lip on the outside edge ensures that wastewater from the toilet bowl does not leak onto the floor. This is particularly important if your children are young or elderly and could be at risk of falling.
Why is a toilet flange so important?
A toilet flange is an important component of your plumbing system, as we have already mentioned. Your toilet may not work properly if it isn’t properly installed. You could also experience unsanitary conditions. A faulty or incorrectly installed flange can lead to many issues, including:
- Leaks: When the wax ring is broken between the waste pipe and toilet, wastewater can seep through and cause leaks at the base. This could cause subfloor and floor damage, as well as unpleasant odors.
- Wobbling or shifting: A loose or incorrectly installed flange may cause your toilet to shift or wobble. This can damage the wax ring, and lead to leakage.
- Sewage Backup – If the flange does not attach to the waste pipe properly, wastewater could back up in your toilet bowl, bathtub, or sink.
- Unpleasant Odors: Bad flanges can lead to unpleasant odours that seep from the toilet’s base and into your bathroom.
The toilet flange, which is essential for any toilet installation, must be installed correctly and properly functioning. To ensure that your toilet is working properly, you should call a licensed plumber. He will inspect the flange to make repairs or replace any damaged parts. It is possible to ensure your plumbing system works properly and avoid unpleasant and unsanitary problems from developing by maintaining your toilet flange.