Prepare and Install New Drain Body — Install the New Drain Flange
Part of project
How to Remove and Replace a Bathtub Drain Flange · Step 6 of 7
In this video
Take a small amount of plumber's putty and roll it into a thin rope. Apply this rope of putty to the underside of the new drain body's flange. Insert the new drain body into the drain opening and screw it clockwise into the drain pipe by hand. Use the specialized drain removal tool and a screwdriver for leverage to tighten it until it is snug and flush with the bathtub surface. As you tighten, excess plumber's putty will squeeze out. Wipe away all the excess putty.
Goal: Plumbing Fixture Installation
- The plumber's putty creates a waterproof seal. Ensure it forms a complete ring under the flange.
Used in this video
- Drain Removal Tool (Specialization: Plumbing specific) — Tightening the new drain body.
- Screwdriver (brand: Companion, Screwdriver_Type: Flathead) · optional — Providing leverage for the drain removal tool.
841K subscribers
FAQs
How difficult is this project for a beginner, and how long does it typically take?
This is a beginner-friendly plumbing project, but patience is key, especially with old, corroded parts. Expect it to take 1-2 hours, depending on how easily the old flange comes out and the amount of cleaning required. Factor in additional time for thorough leak testing to ensure a watertight seal.
Do I really need a special tub drain wrench, or can I use other tools to remove the old flange?
A dedicated tub drain wrench (like the Husky Double Ended Tub Drain Wrench 16PL0128) is highly recommended. It provides the best grip and leverage, minimizing the risk of stripping the flange or damaging the tub. While some might try large pliers or screwdrivers with a hammer, these often cause more damage and frustration.
My old drain flange is stuck or severely corroded. How can I remove it without damaging the tub?
If the flange is very stuck, try applying penetrating oil and letting it sit for a few hours to loosen corrosion. Use the tub drain wrench firmly but carefully to avoid stripping the interior. For extremely stubborn or corroded flanges, you might need to carefully cut the crossbars inside the flange with a reciprocating saw and then break out the pieces, always protecting the tub surface.
What's the best way to ensure a watertight seal and prevent future leaks when installing the new flange? Should I use plumber's putty or silicone?
Plumber's putty is generally preferred for this application. Apply a generous, even bead of Oatey Plumber's Putty underneath the lip of the new flange before setting it into the drain opening; it should squeeze out when tightened. For added security, you can also wrap Teflon tape around the drain shoe threads before screwing in the new flange.
Prepare and Install New Drain Body — Install the New Drain Flange
Part of project
How to Remove and Replace a Bathtub Drain Flange · Step 6 of 7
In this video
Take a small amount of plumber's putty and roll it into a thin rope. Apply this rope of putty to the underside of the new drain body's flange. Insert the new drain body into the drain opening and screw it clockwise into the drain pipe by hand. Use the specialized drain removal tool and a screwdriver for leverage to tighten it until it is snug and flush with the bathtub surface. As you tighten, excess plumber's putty will squeeze out. Wipe away all the excess putty.
Goal: Plumbing Fixture Installation
- The plumber's putty creates a waterproof seal. Ensure it forms a complete ring under the flange.
Used in this video
- Drain Removal Tool (Specialization: Plumbing specific) — Tightening the new drain body.
- Screwdriver (brand: Companion, Screwdriver_Type: Flathead) · optional — Providing leverage for the drain removal tool.
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is this project for a beginner, and how long does it typically take?
This is a beginner-friendly plumbing project, but patience is key, especially with old, corroded parts. Expect it to take 1-2 hours, depending on how easily the old flange comes out and the amount of cleaning required. Factor in additional time for thorough leak testing to ensure a watertight seal.
Do I really need a special tub drain wrench, or can I use other tools to remove the old flange?
A dedicated tub drain wrench (like the Husky Double Ended Tub Drain Wrench 16PL0128) is highly recommended. It provides the best grip and leverage, minimizing the risk of stripping the flange or damaging the tub. While some might try large pliers or screwdrivers with a hammer, these often cause more damage and frustration.
My old drain flange is stuck or severely corroded. How can I remove it without damaging the tub?
If the flange is very stuck, try applying penetrating oil and letting it sit for a few hours to loosen corrosion. Use the tub drain wrench firmly but carefully to avoid stripping the interior. For extremely stubborn or corroded flanges, you might need to carefully cut the crossbars inside the flange with a reciprocating saw and then break out the pieces, always protecting the tub surface.
What's the best way to ensure a watertight seal and prevent future leaks when installing the new flange? Should I use plumber's putty or silicone?
Plumber's putty is generally preferred for this application. Apply a generous, even bead of Oatey Plumber's Putty underneath the lip of the new flange before setting it into the drain opening; it should squeeze out when tightened. For added security, you can also wrap Teflon tape around the drain shoe threads before screwing in the new flange.