Question about my toilet that has 2 holes on each side for bolts...

The toilet in my bathroom has 2 holes on each side for floor bolts. If I buy a toilet with one hole on each side is this going to work with the flange that is underneath? The current toilet has 2 holes on each side but only the rear holes are used.

  5 answers
  • Joy30150932 Joy30150932 on May 17, 2018

    You need to put at least one bolt on either side to hold the toilet down so that it does not rock when using. This will also help it to make better contact with the wax gasket underneath.

    • Jocelyn Normington Jocelyn Normington on May 17, 2018

      Thankyou for your reply, I do know you need one bolt on each side, however I plan to switch from a toilet with four holes to a toilet with 2 holes and needed to know if this would work with the flange that is already installed or do I need to get a Plummer to move the flange to accommodate a different toilet.

  • Joy30150932 Joy30150932 on May 18, 2018

    Sorry, really cannot tell you without seeing it first. Get a new flange at the store, take it home and then see if they match, If so, take the new flange back for a rebate. You may have to get the plumber to install it for you if you have to change it.

  • Dee Dee on Feb 21, 2024

    I would replace the flange if you have the toilet off the floor. You only need one bolt on each side. I looked at my extra flange and there are spaces for different sixed holes.

  • Janice Janice on Feb 22, 2024

    Hi Jocelyn, here's an article that will provide you with info you need about replacing your toilet. I'd also take a picture and measurements of the bottom of the toilet when shopping for the new toilet. Also, there are some good videous on youtube showing how to install including the flange and new wax ring. Just watch a few and you'll notice some good tips for making the installation very easy.

    https://www.hunker.com/13417190/how-to-replace-a-4-bolt-toilet-with-a-2-bolt-toilet

  • Kathy Gunter Law Kathy Gunter Law on Feb 22, 2024

    You can fill in the 2 unused holes in the floor. I would go with a wax ring and you should be fine.