The rusted and stuck toilet flange bolts are not difficult to remove from the toilet. But, if you delay the process, it will be harmful and affect other parts of the toilet. Now, we are going to discuss the easiest techniques for removing toilet flange screws.
How to Remove Rusted Toilet Flange Bolts?
Step 01: Use penetrating oil on the rusted bolts
Penetrating oil is the perfect solution for removing rust from any nut or bolt. Take a bottle of the oil and apply it to the bolt by spraying it. Be careful; the entire part of the bolt must be soaked in it.
Step 02: Soak for 15 minutes
If you only touch the bolt with oil and take it out, the oil will not work to remove the rust properly. So it will be hard to remove the rusted bolt. So, apply a sufficient amount of penetrating oil to the bolt and soak it for about 15 minutes.
Step 03: Use a suitable wrench to loosen the bolt
Now, it is time to loosen the rusted bolts. Take a wrench with the perfect size for the bolt and turn the bolt anticlockwise with it.
Step 04: Take out the bolt
You can also use a plier instead of a wrench when the bolt has become loose. Finally, take out the rusted bolt from the toilet flange. You can now install a new bolt for better toilet construction.
Best penetrating oil for removing rusted toilet screws
There is a huge collection of penetrating oils. Both of them can be used for removing bolts or other rusted elements. However, some oil collections are well-known and useful.
WD 40
Almost all penetrating oil users have heard the name WD-40. It is very popular among users, and it works very fast. The company has been providing us with the perfect lubricant materials since 1953. You can easily apply it by spraying it on your toilet’s damaged flush bolts.
10038 Multi-Purpose Oil
It is also a popular and handy product. The three-in-one product serves as both an oil and a lubricant. If the nuts, bolts, chains, hinges, or other metal parts are corroded, you can apply “3 In One” to them. Moreover, this ingredient can clean the rusted surface easily. So, do not worry about cleaning the outside of the nut that you are removing from the toilet flange, the 3 In One will make the entire surface clean. Just apply it in the perfect amount and soak the surface with it for several minutes. Kroil Original Penetrating Oil
The rusted surface is easily sprayed with Kroil penetrating oil. It is considered one of the best because it can work on the hardest bolts. So, if you haven’t penetrated your toilet flange bolt in a long time and it has become heavily rusted, the Kroil Original penetrating oil may be your best friend.
Related: How to adjust the toilet flange height?
Things you must avoid while removing a rusted toilet flange bolt
A standard toilet is an aristocratic part of your gorgeous bathroom. So, you should not do a task that can hamper its outlook. Be careful about the following cautions.
i) Do not cut the flange bolt
Sometimes the flange bolts become so stiff that the users are arrogant enough to cut the bolt with a large hacksaw or other available blades. But, it is prohibited because this process can damage the toilet and hamper its appearance. But a mini hacksaw or oscillating cutter with a metal cutting blade is suitable for cutting the bolt.
ii) Do not use a hammer or bolt cutters
Hitting the bolt to remove it is a destructive process. Your toilet set can break down from the hit. So, avoid this task. Bolt cutters are also unsuitable for cutting toilet bolts. So, they must be avoided.
Bottom lines
The rules mentioned in this article will help you perfectly remove the damaged bolt from the toilet. But be careful about the new bolt that you will install because an imperfect bolt can be damaged quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why do toilet flange bolts become rusted?
- Rusted bolts are often a result of prolonged exposure to moisture and humidity in the bathroom.
- What tools are required to remove rusted toilet flange bolts?
- You’ll need a wrench or pliers, a hacksaw, a lubricant like WD-40, and potentially a bolt extractor.
- Is it safe to use lubricants like WD-40 on rusted bolts?
- Yes, WD-40 or similar lubricants can help loosen the rust and make the bolts easier to remove.
- What if the bolt is too rusted to turn?
- If the bolt is too rusted to turn, apply more lubricant, wait, and then try again. If it still doesn’t budge, you may need to use a hacksaw to cut it off.
- How can I cut the bolt if it’s too rusted?
- Use a hacksaw with a fine blade to carefully cut through the bolt. Protect the toilet and floor from potential damage while sawing.
- Are there alternatives to cutting the bolt?
- Yes, you can try a bolt extractor tool, which grips the bolt tightly and helps in turning it out.
- How do I protect the toilet from damage while removing bolts?
- Place a rag or a piece of rubber under the wrench or pliers to prevent scratches and use gentle pressure when turning the tools.
- Can I reuse old flange bolts after removing them?
- It’s not recommended to reuse old, rusted bolts. It’s better to replace them with new ones for a secure fit.
- Where can I find replacement bolts?
- Replacement bolts can be found at any hardware store or home improvement center.
- What should I do if the flange is damaged during bolt removal?
- If the flange is damaged, it may need to be repaired or replaced. This might require professional assistance depending on the extent of the damage.
- Is it necessary to call a professional to remove rusted toilet flange bolts?
- While many people can do this task themselves with the right tools, it’s advisable to call a professional plumber if you’re uncomfortable or the situation seems complex.
Hi, I am Jose S. Franz. Currently, I am working as a professional plumber, and our team offers various plumbing services at an affordable price. After my college education, I completed a vocational certification course in plumbing systems and worked with several construction companies. Since then, I have fixed lots of different toilet models, from older to the latest versions. So I have more than 22 years of experience installing plumbing systems and toilets in both residential and commercial buildings.
