Secure Tub Flange to Studs — Remove Flange-to-Floor Fasteners
Part of project
How to Remove an Old Toilet Flange · Step 4 of 7
In this video
Identify and remove any incorrect fasteners, such as drywall screws, that were used to attach the bathtub flange to the wall studs. Use a power drill or impact driver for removal. Then, use a step drill bit to create a countersunk hole in the acrylic flange at the screw location. This allows the new screw head to sit flush. Finally, drive a corrosion-resistant screw, such as a U2 fastener, through the flange and securely into the wood stud.
Goal: Properly fasten the tub to wall studs
- Drywall screws will rust when exposed to moisture, which can lead to fastener failure and staining.
- Countersinking the screw head prevents it from interfering with the installation of the wall board over the flange.
Used in this video
- Power Drill/Impact Driver (brand: Milwaukee, Tool Type: Power Tools, Power Source: Cordless) — Removing old screws and driving new screws.
- Step Drill Bit (Tool Type: Power Tools, Power Source: Cordless) — Creating a countersunk hole in the acrylic tub flange so the screw head sits flush.
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FAQs
How difficult is it to remove an old toilet flange, and how long should I expect it to take?
Removing an old toilet flange is generally considered an intermediate-difficulty DIY project. Expect it to take 2-4 hours, though this can vary significantly based on your experience, the flange material (cast iron is more challenging), and how easily the old fasteners come out. Patience and the right tools are key.
What are the essential safety precautions I need to take when removing a toilet flange?
Safety is paramount for this project. Always wear safety glasses and work gloves to protect against debris and sharp edges. Ensure the water supply is shut off and the toilet is completely drained before beginning. If working with cast iron, be cautious of flying fragments and use appropriate hearing protection when chiseling.
Do I absolutely need specialized tools like an inside pipe cutter or a cold chisel and sledgehammer for this project?
Yes, for PVC/ABS flanges, an inside pipe cutter (like The Plumber's Choice 1242R) is highly recommended to make a clean, safe cut without damaging the main drain pipe. For cast iron flanges, a cold chisel (e.g., Dasco Pro G419) and sledgehammer (like Estwing MRF3LB) are often necessary to break the brittle material without damaging the subfloor or surrounding pipe.
What's the most common mistake DIYers make when removing a toilet flange, and how can I avoid damaging the drain pipe?
The most common and costly mistake is damaging the drain pipe itself while removing the flange. To avoid this, always exercise caution and precision. When cutting PVC/ABS, ensure the inside pipe cutter is properly adjusted to cut only the flange. When breaking cast iron, direct your force carefully with the chisel to fracture the flange, not the underlying pipe or subfloor.
Secure Tub Flange to Studs — Remove Flange-to-Floor Fasteners
Part of project
How to Remove an Old Toilet Flange · Step 4 of 7
In this video
Identify and remove any incorrect fasteners, such as drywall screws, that were used to attach the bathtub flange to the wall studs. Use a power drill or impact driver for removal. Then, use a step drill bit to create a countersunk hole in the acrylic flange at the screw location. This allows the new screw head to sit flush. Finally, drive a corrosion-resistant screw, such as a U2 fastener, through the flange and securely into the wood stud.
Goal: Properly fasten the tub to wall studs
- Drywall screws will rust when exposed to moisture, which can lead to fastener failure and staining.
- Countersinking the screw head prevents it from interfering with the installation of the wall board over the flange.
Used in this video
- Power Drill/Impact Driver (brand: Milwaukee, Tool Type: Power Tools, Power Source: Cordless) — Removing old screws and driving new screws.
- Step Drill Bit (Tool Type: Power Tools, Power Source: Cordless) — Creating a countersunk hole in the acrylic tub flange so the screw head sits flush.
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is it to remove an old toilet flange, and how long should I expect it to take?
Removing an old toilet flange is generally considered an intermediate-difficulty DIY project. Expect it to take 2-4 hours, though this can vary significantly based on your experience, the flange material (cast iron is more challenging), and how easily the old fasteners come out. Patience and the right tools are key.
What are the essential safety precautions I need to take when removing a toilet flange?
Safety is paramount for this project. Always wear safety glasses and work gloves to protect against debris and sharp edges. Ensure the water supply is shut off and the toilet is completely drained before beginning. If working with cast iron, be cautious of flying fragments and use appropriate hearing protection when chiseling.
Do I absolutely need specialized tools like an inside pipe cutter or a cold chisel and sledgehammer for this project?
Yes, for PVC/ABS flanges, an inside pipe cutter (like The Plumber's Choice 1242R) is highly recommended to make a clean, safe cut without damaging the main drain pipe. For cast iron flanges, a cold chisel (e.g., Dasco Pro G419) and sledgehammer (like Estwing MRF3LB) are often necessary to break the brittle material without damaging the subfloor or surrounding pipe.
What's the most common mistake DIYers make when removing a toilet flange, and how can I avoid damaging the drain pipe?
The most common and costly mistake is damaging the drain pipe itself while removing the flange. To avoid this, always exercise caution and precision. When cutting PVC/ABS, ensure the inside pipe cutter is properly adjusted to cut only the flange. When breaking cast iron, direct your force carefully with the chisel to fracture the flange, not the underlying pipe or subfloor.