Fixing a broken closet flange can be relatively easy and straightforward if you have the right materials. Below are the steps you’ll need to take to fix a broken closet flange:
1. Turn off the water supply to the closet flange.
2. Remove the old closet flange by cutting the bolts and nuts that hold it in place and then unscrewing it. Be sure to keep the old parts for reuse or for comparison when purchasing replacements.
3. Measure the opening of the closet flange to determine the size of replacement flange you need.
4. Clean any debris or build-up from inside the drainpipe opening where the new flange will be installed.
5. Place the new closet flange in the opening and tighten the nuts on the underside of the flange to the drainpipe.
6. Seal the connection between the flange and the drain pipe using an approved plumbing putty.
7. Attach a water supply line to the closet flange and turn the water back on.
8. Test the fit by running water through the flange. If any wearing away or damage is noticed, replace it immediately.
That’s all there is to it! If you follow these steps, you’ll have a functional and updated closet flange that can last for years.
Can a broken toilet flange be repaired?
Yes, it is possible to repair a broken toilet flange. Depending on the extent of the damage, a toilet flange can be repaired with a patch or replaced entirely. If the flange is cracked, chipped, or broken, it will require patching.
To do this, use epoxy to fill in the broken area. If the plastic flange has been cracked by bolt heads or something similar, it may need to be replaced. You can purchase a new toilet flange at a local home improvement store.
To replace a toilet flange, you must use a hacksaw to remove the old one, and then replace it with the new one, using new bolts and a wax ring. There may be minor adjustments that need to be made to fit the new flange to the existing hole in the floor.
Once fitting is complete and all bolts are in place, the toilet can be re-installed and the job will be complete.
Will toilet leak if flange is broken?
Yes, toilet leaks can occur if the flange is broken. A flange is the plastic or metal piece of the toilet that connects it to the drainpipe in the floor, and it is responsible for creating a watertight seal between the bottom of the toilet and the drain.
When this seal is broken, water can leak out onto the floor. Including damage due to rust or improper installation. If the flange is severely broken, it will need to be replaced in order to stop the leak.
If there is only minor damage, however, you may be able to repair it with a special flange-repair kit.
Can you repair a flange?
Yes, it is possible to repair a flange depending on the type and size of the damage. In some cases, it is possible to repair a flange by welding and machine grinding. However, the damage should be properly assessed by a professional to determine if the flange can be repaired.
If a flange is too damaged to be repaired, then it will need to be replaced. If a flange can be repaired, then it typically requires proper welding and then machining the flange to its original specifications for correct fit.
How much does it cost to repair a broken flange?
The cost to repair a broken flange can vary depending on the type and size of flange, the extent of the damage, and the location of the repair. For example, if the flange is made of metal and requires welding to be performed in a shop, the cost could range anywhere from $50 to $200 or more, depending on the size and complexity of the repair.
If the flange is plastic, the cost might be considerably less, as plastic usually can be repaired with a patch or other adhesive. In addition to the cost of the repair, there may be labor charges, depending on the complexity of the repair and the hourly rate of the technician.
If the flange cannot be repaired, replacement of the part could add additional cost. Ultimately, the best way to determine the cost to repair a broken flange is to consult a qualified technician to assess the damage and to provide an estimate.
What causes a toilet flange to break?
A toilet flange can break for a variety of reasons. If a heavy object is dropped on the flange, or too much pressure is exerted on it, it can easily break. Bad installation or poor quality materials also lead to flange breakage.
Certain flooring materials can cause problems, as well. For example, if tile or linoleum is installed directly over a flange, the movement of the material can cause damage. Additionally, corrosion on the flange or bolts may make them more susceptible to breaking.
If the flange is not sealed properly, moisture seeping into the space between the floor and flange can cause rust and corrosion, resulting in a broken flange.
Do you need a plumber to replace a toilet flange?
Yes, replacing a toilet flange typically requires the assistance of a qualified plumber. Toilet flanges are the pieces of pipe or plastic that attach the toilet to the bathroom floor, and if they become damaged or corroded, you’ll usually need to replace them with a new, sturdier model.
Although it’s possible to complete the installation yourself, it’s usually best to call a professional plumber. A plumber can accurately measure the circumference of the toilet drain and select the correct size, as well as properly connect the flange to the bathroom’s plumbing.
Furthermore, they’ll be able to assess whether a replication of the original design is sufficient, or if you need to install a new flange model to ensure a long-lasting, watertight installation.
Is the toilet flange glued to the pipe?
The toilet flange is typically not glued to the pipe because it is held together by special screws or bolts, depending on the model and type of flange. The flange will usually have three or four holes in it, which the screws or bolts connect to the pipe.
Additionally, the flange is usually sealed to the pipe using a rubber gasket or wax ring, which prevents water and other materials from leaking out between the two components. This same gasket or wax ring is usually attached to the underside of the toilet before it is set into place.
Can you put a new toilet flange over an old one?
Yes, you can put a new toilet flange over an old one but it may be best to replace the old flange. Over time, the bolts securing the flange can corrode, become weak, or even break, causing the toilet to move around and leak.
A new wax ring and a new flange are generally recommended when replacing a toilet. Replacing the flange is a simple job that most people can do in an hour or so. If you do go with replacing the flange, it is important to make sure you get the right size, so measure the flange on the toilet before you buy it.
Additionally, make sure the new flange is compatible with the drainpipe you have. If you decide to put a new flange over an old one, make sure you use some special adhesive caulk as a sealant. First, remove the old flange from the drainpipe and clean the area thoroughly.
Then apply an adhesive caulk around the drainpipe and put the new flange over it. Do not overtighten the mounting bolts for the new flange as this can damage the wax ring or cause a leak. Finally, you need to make sure the tile around the toilet flange is clean and flat, or else the toilet will sit unevenly.
Does a toilet flange sit on the subfloor?
Yes, in most cases a toilet flange does sit on the subfloor. The flange is typically screwed or glued to a piece of 3/4-inch-thick plywood or particle board that has been cut to fit around the drainpipe.
Once the flange is secured to the subfloor, the toilet can be attached to it. The flange should be secured tightly to the floor to ensure a proper seal and prevent any water or waste from leaking out.
It is important to note, however, that if there is any damage or flooring in the area around the flange, it should be replaced with a new subfloor before installing the new flange.
Can you use plumbers putty on toilet flange?
Yes, you can use plumbers putty on a toilet flange, but it is typically not recommended. Plumbers putty is typically used for non-pressurized applications, and toilet flanges are typically pressurized.
A better material to use for a toilet flange is a liquid sealant, such as an epoxy. Additionally, if the toilet flange is leaking, you might need to replace it with a new one. This is the most effective and long-lasting solution to the issue.
Do all toilets fit the same flange?
No, not all toilets fit the same flange. Toilet flanges come in different sizes and shapes and can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. To ensure compatibility, it’s best to take the exact measurements of your existing flange before purchasing a new toilet to check that the measurements you take match the flange that comes with the toilet you purchase.
Additionally, it may be beneficial to check your local plumbing codes to find out which type of toilet flange is required in your area. It is important to remember that if the toilet flange is incompatible with the toilet, it can cause problems like leaks and instability.
Therefore, it is important to make sure you purchase the right type of flange before you buy your toilet.
Should I put the wax ring on the toilet or the flange?
When it comes to installing a wax ring, there is only one proper way to do it: on the toilet. The wax ring should never be placed on the flange. The wax ring serves to form a watertight seal between the bottom of the toilet and the drain.
Therefore, you should place the wax ring on the horned pedestal that extends from the base of the toilet, ensuring the inner lip of the wax ring fits securely into the drain opening and presses firmly against the flange.
Once the wax ring is correctly situated, you should to press down firmly on the toilet until it seats evenly on the floor. Then, tighten the bolts that secure the toilet to the flange and you’re good to go.
How do you install a flange repair kit?
Installing a flange repair kit requires a few basic tools and some patience. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Turn off the water supply and shut off the water heater.
2. Disconnect the water pipes connected to the flange. If the flange is badly corroded, you may need to cut it off with a reciprocating saw before the pipes can be removed.
3. Begin by cleaning the flange surface with a wire brush to remove any rust or scale.
4. Put the rubber gasket from the flange repair kit over the flange’s pipe stub. Make sure it’s positioned correctly.
5. Put a layer of plumber’s putty around the new flange before putting it over the stub.
6. Tighten the nuts and bolts that come with the repair kit to secure the new flange in place.
7. Connect the water pipes to the flange, ensuring there’s a tight seal.
8. Turn the water supply back on and switch on the water heater again.
Carefully following these instructions is the best way to install a flange repair kit.
What kind of glue do you use on a toilet flange?
The best type of glue to use on a toilet flange is a PVC cement. This type of glue forms a permanently waterproof and airtight bond to the flange and seals out water, helping to prevent any leakage around the flange.
Additionally, PVC cement offers a strong bond and is designed to adhere to ABS and PVC plastics. Before applying PVC cement to the toilet flange, make sure the area is clean and free of dust, dirt, and debris to ensure it has a stronger hold.
Additionally, if the flange is new, sand it slightly to help the glue adhere properly. Once the cement has been applied to the flange, press it firmly in place with a twisting motion. Once the glue has dried for about ten minutes, the toilet flange should be securely sealed in place.