Before we tell you how to replace a toilet flange, we must be sure that you have properly identified the problem. It's a lot of work, and you don't want to start the project if it's not necessary. Just to be safe, let's make sure we're dealing with a broken toilet flange. First, let's begin with the basics.
Also referred to as a closet flange, this part connects the toilet to the drainpipe with a wax ring seal. Just because there is an issue with your flange doesn't necessarily mean you need to replace it. It can be reinforced with a closet ring.
If water is leaking from your toilet base, then I have bad news for you...you might need to replace the flange. The good news is this part is affordable but is it's not a fun job to perform. You can catch this issue before it becomes a leak. Be on the lookout for poor anchoring (the bolts may be bent or may have stripped out the slot). Check to see if the toilet rocks. Look for any sign that you have an offset toilet flange.
If the toilet is rocking, then it will eventually lead to a break in the seal. The seal is made of wax and is designed to mold into place and fill any uneven surfaces. If your toilet is rocking and/or moving, it will smash the beeswax, making it thinner and thinner until it no longer functions as designed. This is a serious problem because often toilets leak slowly enough that it goes unnoticed underneath the flooring causing structural damage before you are aware it's there. Once the sub-flooring gets waterlogged, it will swell and begin to flake apart, but because it is usually covered with tile or linoleum, all the damage goes unseen. Though water around your toilet could mean you need a new flange, more often than not, it will be the supply lines or shut off valves and not the flange. Here is how you should be navigating through this decision:
Hopefully, this guide on how to replace a toilet flange will prove helpful with your plumbing project. Please give us feedback. Thanks for visiting PlumbersStock, and please share your project with us on social media. If you want to update your toilet seat, tank, etc., we have plenty of deals.
Related Resources:
Fixing a Toilet Tank Leak
How to Measure a Toilet Rough-In
How to Replace Toilet Water Supply Line
Learn to Replace a Toilet Handle
Toilet Seat Replacement Tutorial