Offset flange

[dzipin]

I am completing a bathroom that I added in what was a large closet and the space for the toilet was 35” wide. Knowing that I should have 15” on either side I was forced to deal with a joist that ran under the floor directly in the middle – I used an offset flange and set the toilet off center by one inch. The combination was adequate and everything fit but the more I read on this board, the more I’m concerned that the offset flange is going to create a life of problems. Are these flanges really as bad as the few posts mentioned or will it be useable? I don’t know how I’d work around it but at least I will know what my risks are. Thanks

[jwray]

I'm interested to hear what folks have to say about the offset flanges. I've seen comments both pro and con. Does seen to often be a point of concern.

It may be worth considering not using the offset if there are any valid negative comments given the consequences if it fails. Leaking water (and I'm not talking clean water :( ) and structural damage not good.

Here's something you may want to check out if you could install a conventional flange with some moderate joist notching. You'll have to check with your local code authority to see if they would allow this.

http://www.metwood.com/joist_reinforcers/jr_product_details.htm

I should mention that the newsletter sign-up and web contact us form seem to be broken on the site. You can call them at 540-334-4294 or toll free 866-METWOOD (also listed on the contact us page).

Good Luck,

Joel

[jadnashua]

You should be okay. If you really wanted it in the middle, you could build a header in - i.e., cut the joist, and frame up a box to let the drain come up where you want it. You'd have to check with a structural guy to determine how best to do it, and you'd need to support the joist so it didn't move while you cut it and until you got the new header in, but it could be done. Now, is it worth it, probably not.

[LonnythePlumber]

I'm one of those that bad mouth the offset flanges, but the guys and gal here have beaten up on me so bad that, I need to admit my prejudice is a couple of decades old :o and that you probably will not have problems.

[hj]

The problem is not the offset flange, per se. But rather the type of offset flange. A short cast iron offset will have a "shelf" under the bowl's outlet, and a long one, which is like a lazy "Z" will be difficult to attach to the pipe, after the pipe is cut down at a point about 3" under the floor. A plastic offset is similar to a long cast iron one, but it is easier to attach. Neither of these last two create a restriction to the water and waste flow.

[dzipin]

Thanks everyone – that gives me the confidence I need to finish up – not that I couldn’t re-do it down the road but no one likes “finishing” knowing that’s ahead of them….