How to Install a Toilet Onto a 4-Inch Pipe in Concrete

Do-it-yourselfers can install a toilet.

Home-building, home remodeling, and basement finishing could require installing a toilet on a concrete slab. Whatever the reason for the toilet installation; new models decrease the amount of water used per flush and feature new colors and new designs. A second toilet in the home means no more waiting to use the restroom. Bathrooms are always a busy room in a home. Installing a toilet on a 4-inch pipe in concrete could be intimidating, but it's doable.

Things You'll Need

• Hacksaw
• Wrenches
• Wax ring
• Plumber's putty
• Drill
• Drill bits
• Toilet flange
• Self-tapping screws
• Water line

Instructions

1. Set the toilet flange into place by twisting the flange into the cast iron pipe. A rubber compression gasket is on the flange; this will create a seal against the 4-inch pipe. Position the flange so that it is flat against the concrete. Use the drill bit (included with the self-tapping screws) to pre-drill four holes on the toilet flange. Drill the holes deep enough to allow the concrete screws to set flush on the toilet flange. Screw the self-tapping screws tight to the toilet flange.

2. Install the closet bolts that came with the toilet flange into the slots on the flange. The closet bolts will sit freely in the flange until the toilet fastens to the floor.

3. Position the new toilet bowl upside-down, and place the wax ring to the bottom of the toilet bowl.

4. Turn the toilet back over to the upright position, and line up the closet bolts on the flange, with the holes in the toilet. Position the wax ring over the center of the toilet flange, ensuring there is a good seal. Straddle the toilet, and press firmly down onto the toilet. This step will set the wax ring into place.

5. Place the washers on the closet bolts onto each side of the toilet. Place the toilet bowl nuts onto the closet bolts and tighten until snug. Alternate sides while tightening as this will ensure an even seal, and help avoid damage to the new toilet. Cut any extra length from the closet bolts, using a hacksaw. This step will ensure that the toilet bowl caps will fit over the nut and bolt. Place the toilet bolt nuts onto the closet bolts. Toilet bowl nuts either will snap into place, or will need filling on the bottom of the inside with plumber's putty to ensure they stay in place.

6. Align the toilet tank with the holes on the toilet. Guide the bolts through the two holes in the bottom of the tank. Attach the nut on the bottom of the tank. Hold the nut with a wrench while tightening the screw on the inside of the tank.

7. Fasten the water line to the back of the toilet bowl tank. Turn on the water, and check for any leaks.

Tips & Warnings

• Toilet are heavy objects.

References

• Home Depot: Installing a Toilet