How to Install a Toilet When the Flange is Too Low

Hey there! I‘m Lillie, your friendly neighborhood home improvement expert. If you‘re reading this, you‘ve likely run into the common issue of realizing your toilet flange sits too low after ripping up old floors or installing new tile. Not to worry – with the right tools and know-how, you can totally handle raising that flange and getting your toilet solidly back in place.

I‘ll walk you through the full process step-by-step so you can take care of this problem once and for all. Let‘s get started!

Step 1: Assess the Flange Height

The first thing you‘ll want to do is measure how far below the floor level your flange currently sits. The standard height for a toilet flange is 1⁄4” to 1⁄2” above the finished floor.

Grab a tape measure and check the height from the top of the flange to the floor. This will tell you how much you need to raise it to get to the proper level.

If it‘s only 1⁄4” or less below the floor, you may be able to get away with using a slightly thicker wax ring during installation. But anything more than that will require raising the flange.

Step 2: Choose the Best Method to Raise the Flange

Based on how far below the floor your flange sits, you have a few good options to lift it up to the right height:

Use a Flange Extender

These handy plastic rings sit right on top of your existing flange to raise it up. Measure the gap between the top of your flange and the floor level, then get an extender ring that matches that height.

I‘d recommend a flexible rubber gasket extender. Apply some plumber‘s putty underneath to create a tight seal before lowering it into place over the flange.

Attach Threaded Flange Extenders

For a more heavy-duty solution, you can use threaded flange extenders that screw right into the existing bolt holes on the flange. Use multiple extenders stacked on top of each other if needed to achieve the proper height.

Use Shims

Simple plastic or wooden shims can also do the trick. Slide them under the edges of the flange and tap them into place with a hammer to raise the flange up. Just be sure they‘re secure and won‘t shift around.

Build Up Thinset or Mortar

If you want a permanent solution, apply some thinset mortar or concrete under the flange to build it up to the right height. Let it fully cure for at least 24 hours before installing the toilet.

Step 3: Replace the Flange if Needed

In some cases, the flange may be so deteriorated or corroded that it‘s best to replace it entirely. Here‘s a quick rundown of that process:

• Turn off the water supply line and remove the toilet
• Using a rotary tool, cut out and remove the section of pipe with the damaged flange
• Install new flange at the proper height, using plumber‘s putty or silicone to seal it
• Reconnect the piping and water supply line

Replacing the flange ensures you have a fresh start and a stable base for installing the new toilet.

Step 4: Install Toilet on the Low Flange

Once your flange is raised to the right height, you‘re ready to install the toilet:

• Place a new wax ring around the flange, making sure it contacts the floor all the way around
• Lower the toilet onto the flange and press down firmly to seal the wax ring
• Insert washers and bolts through toilet base holes to secure it to the flange
• Tighten bolts evenly using an adjustable wrench – snug but don‘t overtighten
• Turn the water supply back on and test for leaks
• Make any final wax ring adjustments if needed for a perfect seal

Helpful Tips and Tricks

• Use a vibrating tool when installing shims or mortar to help "settle" them into place nicely under the flange
• For a super solid seal, consider using a rubber gasket AND wax ring together
• Always replace bolts/washers/nuts when installing a new toilet
• Don‘t be tempted to re-use an old wax ring – spring for a new one
• Go very slowly and gently when setting the toilet – don‘t risk disturbing the wax ring seal
• Make incremental turns when tightening bolts – alternate sides until snug
• If leaks persist, try tightening the bolts slightly more or adding extra sealant around the base

And there you have it – everything you need to know to successfully install your toilet on a flange that sits too low. Just take it slow, use quality supplies, and don‘t be afraid to call a plumber friend if you need a hand. You got this! Let me know if any other home repair tips would be handy.