How to Fix a Broken Toilet Flange: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Repair a Broken Toilet Flange

A broken toilet flange is a common plumbing problem that can be both frustrating and expensive to fix. However, with a little know-how and some basic tools, you can usually repair a broken toilet flange yourself in a matter of hours.

In this article, we will walk you through the steps of repairing a broken toilet flange, from identifying the problem to replacing the flange itself. We will also provide tips on how to prevent future flange problems.

So if you’re dealing with a broken toilet flange, read on for all the information you need to get the job done right.

How To Repair A Broken Toilet Flange?

| Step | Task | Tools |
|—|—|—|
| 1 | Remove the toilet tank | Adjustable wrench, screwdriver |
| 2 | Inspect the flange | Flashlight, putty knife |
| 3 | Replace the flange | New flange, plumber’s putty, sealant |
| 4 | Reinstall the toilet tank | Adjustable wrench, screwdriver |

Identifying a Broken Toilet Flange

A toilet flange is a metal or plastic ring that connects the toilet to the drainpipe. It is located underneath the toilet, and it is usually made of either cast iron or PVC.

A broken toilet flange can cause a number of problems, including:

  • Leaking water
  • A slow draining toilet
  • A toilet that wobbles

If you are experiencing any of these problems, it is important to check the toilet flange to see if it is damaged.

To identify a broken toilet flange, you will need to:

1. Remove the toilet seat.
2. Look underneath the toilet for the toilet flange.
3. If the flange is cracked, rusted, or otherwise damaged, it will need to be replaced.

Removing the Old Flange

Once you have identified the broken toilet flange, you will need to remove it. To do this, you will need:

  • A hacksaw
  • A screwdriver
  • A putty knife
  • A bucket
  • A new toilet flange
  • Plumbing sealant

1. Turn off the water supply to the toilet.
2. Flush the toilet to drain the water from the tank.
3. Remove the toilet seat.
4. Locate the toilet flange. It is usually located underneath the toilet, and it is a metal or plastic ring that connects the toilet to the drainpipe.
5. Use a hacksaw to cut the bolts that secure the flange to the floor.
6. Use a screwdriver to pry the flange up from the floor.
7. Use a putty knife to scrape away any old sealant that is around the flange.
8. Place the new flange in the same position as the old flange.
9. Apply a bead of plumbing sealant around the edge of the flange.
10. Press the flange down onto the sealant and tighten the bolts.
11. Turn on the water supply to the toilet.
12. Flush the toilet to test the new flange.

Replacing a broken toilet flange is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. By following these steps, you can easily fix a broken toilet flange and prevent further damage to your toilet.

3. Installing the New Flange

Once you have the new flange in hand, it’s time to install it. This is a relatively simple process, but it’s important to take your time and do it correctly.

1. Locate the old flange. The old flange is the metal ring that is attached to the floor and supports the toilet. It is typically located in the center of the toilet bowl.
2. Remove the old flange. To remove the old flange, you will need to unscrew the bolts that hold it in place. These bolts are usually located on the underside of the toilet bowl. Once the bolts are removed, you can carefully pry the flange up and out of the floor.
3. Clean the area around the flange. Before you install the new flange, you will need to clean the area around it. This will help to ensure that the new flange is properly sealed.
4. Apply sealant to the flange. Once the area is clean, you will need to apply a sealant to the flange. This will help to create a watertight seal between the flange and the floor.
5. Install the new flange. To install the new flange, you will need to place it in the center of the toilet bowl and then screw it into place. Make sure that the flange is level and that the bolts are tight.
6. Test the new flange. Once the new flange is installed, you will need to test it to make sure that it is working properly. To do this, you can fill the toilet bowl with water and then flush it. The water should not leak around the flange.

If the water does leak around the flange, you will need to remove the flange and re-apply the sealant.

4. Testing the New Flange

Once you have installed the new flange, you will need to test it to make sure that it is working properly. To do this, you can fill the toilet bowl with water and then flush it. The water should not leak around the flange.

If the water does leak around the flange, you will need to remove the flange and re-apply the sealant.

Here are some additional tips for testing the new flange:

  • Make sure that the toilet is properly connected to the water supply and the sewer line.
  • Make sure that the toilet is level.
  • Make sure that the bolts that hold the flange in place are tight.
  • If you are still having problems with leaks, you may need to call a plumber.

Replacing a broken toilet flange is a relatively simple task, but it’s important to take your time and do it correctly. By following these steps, you can ensure that your toilet is properly repaired and that you won’t have to worry about leaks.

How do I know if my toilet flange is broken?

There are a few signs that can indicate that your toilet flange is broken. These include:

  • The toilet is leaking from the base, even when the tank is full.
  • The toilet is rocking back and forth when you sit on it.
  • The toilet is difficult to flush.
  • The water level in the toilet tank is too high or too low.

If you see any of these signs, it’s important to have your toilet flange repaired or replaced as soon as possible.

How do I repair a broken toilet flange?

To repair a broken toilet flange, you will need the following materials:

  • A new toilet flange
  • A hacksaw
  • A screwdriver
  • A putty knife
  • Plumbing putty
  • A bucket of water

Step 1: Shut off the water supply to the toilet.

The first step is to shut off the water supply to the toilet. This can be done by turning off the shut-off valve located under the sink.

Step 2: Remove the old toilet flange.

Once the water supply is turned off, you can begin to remove the old toilet flange. To do this, you will need to use a hacksaw to cut through the bolts that hold the flange in place. Once the bolts are cut, you can use a screwdriver to pry the flange off of the toilet.

Step 3: Clean the toilet drain.

Once the old flange is removed, you will need to clean the toilet drain. This can be done by using a putty knife to scrape away any debris that is stuck in the drain.

Step 4: Apply plumber’s putty to the new flange.

Once the drain is clean, you can apply plumber’s putty to the new flange. This will help to create a seal between the flange and the toilet.

Step 5: Install the new flange.

Now that the plumber’s putty is applied, you can install the new flange. To do this, you will need to line up the flange with the drain and then press it down firmly.

Step 6: Turn on the water supply to the toilet.

Once the new flange is installed, you can turn on the water supply to the toilet. You should then flush the toilet to make sure that the seal is tight and that there are no leaks.

What are the costs associated with repairing a broken toilet flange?

The cost of repairing a broken toilet flange will vary depending on the extent of the damage. In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $100 for the materials and labor.

How long does it take to repair a broken toilet flange?

The amount of time it takes to repair a broken toilet flange will vary depending on the skill of the person doing the repair. In general, you can expect the repair to take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.

What are the risks associated with repairing a broken toilet flange?

There are a few risks associated with repairing a broken toilet flange. These include:

  • Water damage: If the repair is not done correctly, it could lead to water damage to the surrounding area.
  • Sewer gas: If the repair is not done correctly, it could allow sewer gas to enter the home.
  • Health hazards: If the repair is not done correctly, it could create a health hazard for the people living in the home.

It is important to hire a qualified plumber to repair a broken toilet flange to avoid these risks.

How can I prevent a broken toilet flange in the future?

There are a few things you can do to prevent a broken toilet flange in the future. These include:

  • Make sure that the toilet is properly installed.
  • Keep the toilet clean and free of debris.
  • Replace the toilet flange every 10 to 15 years.

By following these tips, you can help to prevent a broken toilet flange and keep your toilet working properly.

In this blog post, we have discussed how to repair a broken toilet flange. We have provided a step-by-step guide, as well as tips and tricks to help you get the job done correctly. We hope that this information has been helpful, and that you are now able to repair your broken toilet flange with ease.

Here are some key takeaways from this blog post:

  • A toilet flange is a metal ring that connects the toilet to the sewer line.
  • A broken toilet flange can cause a number of problems, including leaks, water damage, and sewer gas smells.
  • To repair a broken toilet flange, you will need to remove the old flange, clean the area, install a new flange, and seal it in place.
  • You can find all of the materials and tools you need to repair a toilet flange at your local hardware store.
  • If you are not comfortable doing this type of repair, you can always hire a professional plumber to do the job for you.

Author Profile

Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell is the owner of toiletty.com. She is a mom of two and is very passionate about home improvement.

Liana has ten years of home improvement experience, and in her own words, she said: “I love improving the home, and I’m very passionate about keeping the home in the best possible condition. I love it!”

Liana Farrell balances beauty and functionality when she goes about her home improvement jobs.