Toilet Pan Removal: Concrete Issues And Solutions

Removing a toilet pan that has been cemented into the floor can be a challenging task. The process may involve using tools such as a hammer and chisel to carefully break the concrete bond and separate the pan from the waste pipe. It is important to take precautions to avoid damaging the waste pipe, as this could lead to further complications. Additionally, there may be a need to plug the waste pipe to prevent debris from falling into it during the removal process. While it is possible for experienced individuals to attempt this task, it is generally recommended to seek professional help from a qualified plumber to ensure a safe and effective outcome.

Use a cold chisel to break the concrete

Removing a toilet pan that is set in concrete can be a challenging task. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use a cold chisel effectively to break the concrete and remove the toilet pan:

Prepare the Necessary Tools and Safety Gear:

Before you begin, ensure you have the right tools and safety equipment. You will need a cold chisel, a suitable hammer (such as a ball peen or club hammer), safety goggles, gloves, and a dust mask. The cold chisel is used to cut and break the concrete, while the hammer provides the necessary force. Safety gear is crucial to protect yourself from flying debris and dust.

Understand the Cold Chisel and Hammer Technique:

Hold the cold chisel securely but not too tightly. Position your thumb and forefinger about an inch from the top of the chisel's handle. If you grip it too rigidly, the force from the hammer blows will transfer to your hand and arm. Swing the hammer in a controlled rhythm, and focus your gaze on the cutting edge of the chisel rather than the handle.

Start Chipping Away at the Concrete:

Begin by gently tapping the chisel with the hammer to create a starting point for your cuts. Place the cold chisel at a slight angle against the concrete, with the flat cutting edge of the chisel facing the area you want to break. Strike the chisel with the hammer using moderate force. The goal is to create a groove or score line in the concrete that will guide your subsequent cuts.

Break the Concrete in Controlled Sections:

Continue to strike the chisel along the score line, applying more force as needed. Work in small sections to maintain control. As you cut deeper into the concrete, adjust the angle of the chisel and your striking force accordingly. Remember to focus on creating controlled breaks along the score line rather than attempting to break large chunks of concrete at once.

Clear Debris and Check for Remaining Concrete:

As you work, periodically clear away any broken concrete debris with a brush or your hand (while wearing gloves). This will give you a better view of your progress and help prevent accidental damage to the surrounding area. Once you've broken through the initial layer of concrete, inspect the area to determine how much more concrete needs to be removed.

Protect the Waste Pipe During Removal:

When working near the waste pipe, exercise extreme caution. Use a smaller hammer and chisel to carefully crack the concrete near the joint between the pan and the pipe. Stuff a plastic bag filled with newspapers into the waste pipe to prevent any porcelain fragments from falling into it and causing blockages.

By following these steps and working methodically, you can effectively use a cold chisel to break the concrete and remove the toilet pan. Remember to prioritize your safety and take breaks as needed during this physically demanding task.

Protect the waste pipe

Protecting the waste pipe is crucial when removing a concreted toilet pan to avoid costly repairs. Here are some detailed steps to ensure the waste pipe remains intact:

Firstly, it is important to assess the type of waste pipe you are dealing with. If it is a clay or cast iron pipe, extra caution is required to prevent damage. Before beginning any work, ensure you have the necessary safety gear, including work gloves, goggles, and a dust mask.

Turn off the water supply to the toilet and flush the toilet to drain the tank. This will prevent accidental spills during the removal process. Use a small hammer and chisel to carefully break the back of the toilet pan near the joint connecting to the waste pipe. This step will separate the pan spigot from the rest of the pan. It is crucial to be gentle during this process to avoid damaging the pipe.

Once the pan spigot is separated, smash the pan away from the pipe with a larger hammer. Clean off any remaining cement on the floor around the pipe. This step will ensure a smooth surface for the new installation.

Now, you must focus on protecting the waste pipe. Stuff a plastic bag full of newspapers or old rags into the waste pipe to prevent debris or broken porcelain from falling into it. This protective barrier will also prevent sewer gases from escaping during the removal process.

With the waste pipe protected, continue chipping away at the toilet pan and the remaining concrete around the pipe. Be cautious not to drop any porcelain or debris into the waste pipe. Once the pan and concrete are removed, carefully remove the protective barrier from the pipe.

If you need to cut into or reposition the waste pipe, ensure you are confident in your abilities or consult a licensed plumber. This process involves cutting into the existing waste line and installing a new pipe, which requires specialized tools and knowledge.

By following these steps, you can effectively protect the waste pipe while removing a concreted toilet pan.

Remove the toilet pan

Removing a toilet pan that has been cemented into place is a challenging task and requires careful work to avoid damaging the pipe. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Step 1: Flush and Clean the Toilet

Before starting any work, it is important to flush the toilet and clean it as best you can. This will help to reduce the risk of inhaling any harmful germs or bacteria during the removal process.

Step 2: Protect Yourself and the Pipe

Put on protective gear, including work gloves, goggles, and a dust mask. It is also recommended to plug the pipe with old rags or stuff a plastic bag full of newspapers into the waste pipe to prevent anything from falling down the pipe and to stop sewer gases from escaping.

Step 3: Initial Separation

Using a small hammer and chisel, carefully crack the back of the pan near the joint to the waste pipe. This will help to separate the pan spigot from the rest of the pan. Be gentle and cautious to avoid damaging the pipe.

Step 4: Remove the Pan

Once the initial separation is achieved, use a larger hammer to smash the pan away from the pipe. Clean off any remaining cement on the floor to ensure the pipe is not damaged.

Step 5: Protect the Pipe

If possible, carefully drill small holes around the cement joint without damaging the pipe. This will create a break line and make the next step easier.

Step 6: Chip Away the Cement

Using a hammer and chisel, chip away at the remains of the pan spigot and the cement, removing the pieces from the pipe. Be cautious and gentle to avoid damaging the pipe.

Step 7: Final Clean-Up

Carefully chip away any remaining cement from the pipe joint to ensure it is clean. Remove the rags or plastic bag from the waste pipe, along with any debris that may have accumulated.

At this stage, you have successfully removed the toilet pan. You can now proceed with installing a new toilet pan by following the manufacturer's instructions or seeking further guidance online. Remember to always exercise caution and wear appropriate protective gear when undertaking such tasks.

Clean the floor

Once you have removed the toilet pan, you will need to clean the floor. This is important to ensure that the area is ready for the new toilet installation.

First, use a hammer and chisel to carefully chip away at any remaining cement or mortar on the floor. Be gentle and work slowly to avoid damaging the surrounding floor or pipework. It is also important to wear protective gear, such as gloves and goggles, to shield yourself from any flying debris. If there are tiles around the concrete block, be extra cautious to avoid dislodging them.

Next, use a putty knife to scrape away any remaining adhesive or residue. This step may require some elbow grease, so be prepared to apply some pressure. Again, ensure you are wearing gloves to protect your hands from any sharp fragments or debris.

Once the majority of the concrete has been removed, use a damp sponge to wipe down the area. This will help to remove any remaining dust or smaller fragments. You may need to rinse and wring out the sponge several times to fully clean the area.

Finally, ensure the area is completely dry before beginning the installation of the new toilet pan. This may take several hours, so it is advisable to plan this step in advance.

Install a new toilet

Safety First

Before you begin, make sure to wear the proper safety gear, including work gloves, goggles, and a dust mask. Remember to flush and clean the toilet before starting work.

Removing the Old Toilet

Turn off the water supply to the toilet and flush it to remove water from the tank and bowl. Use a hammer and chisel to carefully break the toilet pan away from the concrete, being cautious not to damage the waste pipe. Clean off any remaining cement on the floor and ensure that the pipe is clear of debris.

Preparing for the New Installation

If you need to replace the toilet bowl, you may need to use a cold chisel to remove the remaining concrete and level the floor, ensuring it slopes towards a drain. Fit a new waste pipe, marking and drilling to fit the new pan.

Installing the New Toilet

Place the new toilet pan into the waste pipe, ensuring a snug fit. Use a spirit level to check that the pan is level in both directions.

If you are installing a new toilet flange on a concrete slab, follow these additional steps:

Removing the Old Flange

Use a power tool, such as an oscillating multi-tool or an angle grinder, to cut off the old bolts and any protruding obstructions. Make sure to cut them flush with the concrete.

Cleaning the Drain Opening

Scrape off the old wax ring using a putty knife and latex gloves. Be thorough and patient, as the wax may be thick and sticky.

Choosing the Right Flange

Measure the diameter of the exposed drain pipe and select a new flange that matches this size.

Positioning the New Flange

Place the T-bolts upside down in the new flange, with the threaded shafts sticking up. This will help you visualize the toilet's positioning. Press the flange down into the drain opening, using the T-bolts as reference points. Ensure the bolts are at equal distances from the back wall so that the toilet tank will be parallel to the wall.

Drilling Holes and Securing the Flange

Use a hammer drill with a 1/4-inch concrete/masonry bit to drill four holes around the ring, through the holes in the toilet flange, and into the concrete subfloor. Be cautious not to angle the drill towards the sewer pipe. Screw the flange onto the concrete slab using Tapcon anchors or similar masonry/concrete screws. Be careful not to crack a plastic flange ring by screwing the anchors too far.

Final Steps

With the new flange in place, you can now install the toilet using a new wax ring. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper installation.

Frequently asked questions