Installing hardwood flooring in powder room...?

Question

I am installing solid hardwood flooring in a powder room; anything special I should be watching for and/or asking the plumber or hardwood installer about the toilet? I know the plumber will have to remove the toilet first, then the h/w installs the flooring, but when plumber puts toilet back, do they need to raise the pipes/flange? Any advice or suggestions would much appreciated! Thanks.

Answer 1

As a professional plumber i have encountered this on so many occasions i've lost count. Yes extra thick wax rings MIGHT work, and you CAN install spacer rings, if you HAVE TOO. But the best thing is to have the plumber raise the piping if that is possible. If there is a floor below your powder room, having a leaky wax ring, or improperly used spacer can mean a lot of water damage and a big mess. If there is no floor below then the leak can get under the new hardwood floors with no where to go, and you know what that can mean.

If the toilet is at the beginning of the sewer run, than raising the piping an inch should be a breeze, and much more secure than trying to patchwork it after the fact. But ask him (or her) which option would be best. If it is possible to raise the pipe to make the flange sit flush on TOP OF the newly installed hardwoods, that is the BEST route.

Good Luck

Answer 2

There are extra thick wax rings for just such a case.  There are also spacer flanges which can be glued directly to the existing pvc flange.  either will work well.  

Answer 3

There are many different options for installing wood flooring ranging from the classic-narrow-strip floor and grain pattern to suit just about any color scheme or style you're chosen for your kitchen, living room, or bath. For a unique look, install boards at an angle to the walls instead of parallel.