For a plumber, replacing a toilet flange is a quick and easy job. Replacing a toilet flange costs $145 to $165 on average.
You can replace a toilet yourself, but it is recommended to hire a professional plumber to ensure the job is done correctly.
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.
A broken flange will cause the toilet to move because it is no longer secured to the flange, which is anchored to the subfloor. The constant rocking will likely break the wax seal (located between the toilet and the flange), allowing water to leak onto the substrate and the ceiling below when the toilet is flushed.
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.
If your toilet is creaking or wobbling, you may need to replace the flange. For a plumber, replacing a toilet flange is a quick and easy job. Replacing a toilet flange costs $145 to $165 on average.
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.
The toilet flange, also known as a closet flange, is the part of the toilet that secures the unit to the floor and connects to the drain pipe. Usually made of PVC, rubber or metal, this piece is circular in shape and usually secured in place with a few bolts.
Cracked or Broken Flange: Years of wear and tear or excessive pressure can lead to cracks or breaks in the flange, causing leaks. Improper Installation: If the flange isn't set correctly on the floor or isn't aligned with the toilet base, it can lead to gaps and subsequent leaks.
Unstable Toilet: A rocking or moving toilet may have a damaged flange. Foul Odors: Sewage gas smells like rotten eggs, and if you smell it in your bathroom, you likely have a broken seal around your toilet. Visible Damage: Cracks or corrosion on your flange indicate it's time for a replacement.
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.
On average, toilets can last up to 50 years if they are properly maintained. But, the rule of thumb is to replace your toilet every 25 years, due to damage and regular wear and tear.
A licensed plumber will ensure your new toilet is properly hooked up and the plumbing lines are in good shape. A plumber can also perform any major repairs, such as drainpipe replacement. If the floor or wall sustains any damage during the installation, you'll want to bring in a flooring and drywall contractor.
A faulty or broken flange may be attributed to a loose or worn-out wax seal. However, flaws in the foundation, like an uneven floor, may also cause the toilet's base to leak.
How to choose the right toilet flange. 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. That means if you have a PVC pipe connection, you should install a PVC closet flange.
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.
According to the International Plumbing Code (2012 edition) and the Uniform Plumbing Code (2009 edition), sealing the joint where fixtures meet the floor is required. Failing to caulk your toilet could result in noncompliance with these codes, which may lead to issues during home inspections or resale.
Heavy impact: Sharp or blunt force impacts of something hard on the toilet bowl can cause cracks to form.
If you have the appropriate tools and enough strength to lift the toilet, this could be a good DIY project for you. On the other hand, hiring a plumber to replace the flange will ensure that the job is done right by a licensed, experienced professional.
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.
This toilet flange is designed to glue on the inside of the pipe or expand inside the pipe. Leave the old toilet flange in place and glue on the new one at the correct elevation for the floor, if it's plastic. The flange should be sitting with the bottom edge flush with the top of the floor.
Should a toilet flange be flush with the floor? A toilet flange should not be leveled to the floor. Ideally, it should be about 1/4 inch above a finished floor. Installing it level or below the floor can lead to leaks.
One reason for a toilet leak from the base might be a loose connection where the tank meets the toilet. Check the connecting bolts. If they seem loose or you can see water gathering in that area, use the screwdriver to tighten them. Approach the bolts from inside the tank and screw downward to create the best seal.