Can you repair a toilet flange?

Author: Prof. Hal Considine  |  Last update: Saturday, May 10, 2025

If just the flange is broken, you can use a convenient flange repair ring, like Oatey's Fix-It Flange Repair Ring, to securely reinstall the toilet. A product like this makes repairs easy because it can be installed above the broken toilet flange with four screws and silicone sealant.

Can a broken toilet flange be repaired?

You don't necessarily have to replace the flange. You can buy a flange repair ring at your local hardware store and drill it in place on top of this. However, if you'd like to replace it break the flange the rest of the way off so you can get a sawzall blade under and cut it flush with the concrete.

How to fix a stripped toilet flange?

Cut some slits into the flange pipe the depth of the pipe and about a half inch apart with a hacksaw blade and try to break out the pieces. Shove a rag down the pipe to prevent the pieces from going down the drain. Then you could just install a whole new flange that would make for a great seal with the wax ring.

Can you put a new toilet flange over an old one?

Yes Xenaite, that's it exactly. You just have to remove enough of the old flange to allow the new flange to reach the floor.

Do I need a plumber to replace a toilet flange?

PVC flange, the most common type of flange, simply lift it from the outflow pipe. If the flange is metal or glued to the drain pipe and cannot lift out once the bolts are removed, call a licensed plumber to remove it for you.

How to Repair Broken Toilet Flange

What does a plumber charge to replace a toilet flange?

For a plumber, replacing a toilet flange is a quick and easy job. Replacing a toilet flange costs $145 to $165 on average.

Are toilet flanges glued or screwed?

Taking after the name “water closet,” the traditional name for a toilet, closet flanges are typically made of PVC, rubber, copper, brass, stainless steel or metal and can be secured in place with bolts or screws. A rubber gasket and wax ring tightly seal the flange to the bottom of the toilet.

How do I know if my toilet flange is bad?

In addition to your toilet rocking, there are other warning signs that may indicate your flange is broken including:
  1. Visible leaks beneath the toilet.
  2. Flooring surrounding the toilet feels soft.
  3. Water spots appearing on the ceiling located directly below the toilet.

How often should a toilet flange be replaced?

Flanges last for about 5-20 years. Worn-out flanges will no longer create a tight seal between the toilet and outflow pipe. As a result, when you flush, the toilet will leak at the base. By replacing the closet flange you will be able to stop the base from leaking.

What if toilet flange is flush with floor?

A best practice is to install the toilet flange on top of the finished floor. If you install the toilet flange flush with the finished floor, or even below the finished floor, leak paths will form, because the flange won't be at the correct height to accept the horn at the bottom of the toilet.

What is a toilet flange extender?

It's an a Push Tite gasketed closet flange. Simply push this down into the old closet flange and secure it to the wood subfloor with galvanized or stainless steel screws.

How do you fix a stripped threaded hole?

Here's how to use it.
  1. Step 1: Drill the hole. Use a drill to slightly enlarge the stripped bolt hole, following the size recommendation in the Helicoil kit. ...
  2. Step 2: Tap the hole. Using a tap from your kit, create new threads in the hole to match the Helicoil insert. ...
  3. Step 3: Insert the Helicoil. ...
  4. Step 4: Install the bolt.

What causes a toilet flange to break?

For example, it may break or crack. This is more common if your toilet is loose and rocks back and forth. Eventually, this pressure and stress can cause a full break that will need toilet flange replacement. Also, in some cases your flange may corrode, rust, or deteriorate.

Are toilet flanges universal?

As mentioned earlier, keep in mind that the choice of toilet flange depends on the material of the pipe (the drainage or sanitary system) and connection method.

How long does it take to repair a toilet flange?

Plumber labor costs $75 to $150 per hour, and a simple toilet flange replacement takes 1 to 2 hours to remove the toilet, detach and replace the old flange, install a new wax seal, and reseat the toilet properly.

How much will a plumber charge to replace a toilet flange?

Highlights. The cost to replace a toilet flange averages $145 to $165 for parts and labor. Factors that affect the cost of a toilet flange replacement include the flange material, labor rates, and additional repairs.

Do you need a plumber to replace a toilet flange?

If your flange is clogged or clogs frequently, it may require professional repair. Cracked or broken flange: If you notice a lot of water pooling at the base of your toilet and find that your flange is cracked or broken, it's time for a toilet flange replacement.

How do I know what toilet flange I need?

Toilet flanges are usually 3 or 4 inches in diameter, depending on the size of the drainpipe. A flange should fit with the pipe either by fitting comfortably inside of it or sliding over it. The pipe length should be adjusted depending on the floor finishing's thickness.

How do you know if the wax ring is leaking?

Water Around the Toilet Base

The first sign of a bad toilet ring is water forming around the base of the toilet. To test that a bad seal is the problem, grab a couple of towels and wipe up the water. Go on with your day, checking periodically to see if the water has returned.

How do I know if my flange is correct?

How to tell if you're using the correct flange size
  1. Center nipples move freely. ...
  2. Only a little areola tissue should be pulled into the tunnel. ...
  3. Motion of your breast is gentle and rhythmic. ...
  4. Feels comfortable breast pumping. ...
  5. Yields well-drained breasts.

Do toilet flanges wear out?

When the toilet flange wears out, you will start to notice leaks at the base of your toilet. The toilet will also become unstable when you use it, rocking back and forth. If you start seeing any of these symptoms, it's time to replace the toilet flange.

Can you replace toilet flange bolts without removing the toilet?

A: No, you must remove the toilet to access and replace the flange.

Do you put the wax ring on the toilet or the flange?

Position the new toilet wax ring on top of the toilet flange, ensuring it is centered. Want to know more about choosing the correct wax ring size, crucial installation tips, and other frequently asked questions? Check out our Oatey 101: Wax Rings blog.

How to fix flange on toilet?

A Step-by-Step Guide to Repairing a Toilet Flange
  1. Disconnect the Water Supply and Drain the Toilet. ...
  2. Remove the Tank and Unbolt the Toilet From the Floor. ...
  3. Remove the Wax Ring and Inspect the Toilet Flange. ...
  4. Replace or Repair the Flange. ...
  5. Attach the New Wax Ring and Reassemble the Toilet. ...
  6. Expert Plumbing Repairs and Services.

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