How to Replace a Toilet Floor Flange

Plumbing is one of those jobs that most people are only too happy to call a professional for. In order to obtain a waterproof seal, most parts are glued together and therefore hard to remove without just cutting away. Toilets are the queen of nasty projects! If you have a leak, it must be addressed and sooner instead of later or your problems will only multiply quickly.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Turn off the water source and unscrew the hose leading to the back of the toilet. Flush the toilet so as much of the water will drain as possible.

2. Unscrew the bolts at the base of the toilet. Have some old towels set on the floor and carefully lift the toilet off its seat and place on the towels.

3. Scrape off the old wax ring from the flange and inspect the flange. If it is cracked or you suspect it of leaking, then see if it is glued to the drain pipe. If it is corroded or glued to the drain, you have two options: call a plumber so you don't hurt the drain pipe or buy a flange extender ring. This ring will require the use of a gasket seal but it usually comes with it. Follow the directions with the gasket, making sure to get a water and gas proof seal. (Alternatively, a silicone sealant can be used.)

4. Attach the closet bolts and then place a new wax ring over the opening. Place the toilet back in its place--lining it up correctly so the bolts come through the openings at the base of the toilet. Screw the bolts in place, not too tightly.

5. Screw the water hose back on and tighten snugly. Turn on the water valve and let the toilet fill. Wipe the floor clean and caulk around the base of the toilet.

[apocolael]

on 11/24/2008 Yeah, I got to the part where I was tightening down the closet bolt nuts and I overtightened and popped on out of the flange, cracking the flange itself. Now I have to cut it out. Also, the wax seal instructions say to put the wax seal onto the bottom of the toilet to ensure better alignment, then place the toilet onto the flange and use your weight to smoosh the wax seal down.