Toilet Flange Repair: Troubleshooting 5 Common Problems

Toilet flange repair is very useful because it will make it possible to improve the condition of your toilet. The flange is the part of the pipe which connects your toilet to the waste pipe. A damaged flange can cause a leaking toilet which isn't the nicest of sights. Find out how to repair the toilet flange to make the toilet get rid of waste much cleaner.

1 - Leaking Flange

The toilet flange connects to the toilet by using a wax ring. The wax ring seals the waste pipe so that the water can be flushed down the toilet. If the wax ring is damaged or broken then this will allow water to spill out over the top of the toilet.

A replacement wax bowl may be required to re-seal the toilet and prevent the toilet from leaking.

2 - Length of Toilet Flange

The toilet flange needs to be the correct length so that the toilet can be secured properly. If the flange is too long or too short then this can cause the toilet to leak.

If a new floor has been installed in your bathroom then this will often mean that the flange is too low in the floor. Extenders can be used to raise the height of the flange.

If a floor has been removed then this can also make the flange too high. The flange will either need to be reduced in height or a toilet plate can be used to raise the toilet up to the correct height.

3 - Rocking Toilet

A rocking toilet can cause serious damage to the toilet flange. If the toilet is rocking then you might need to replace the toilet flange and stop it from rocking. Preventing the toilet from rocking will prevent the flange from breaking or becoming damaged.

Tighten up the toilet bolts to secure the toilet and to stop it from rocking.

4 - Cracked Flange

Toilet flanges are made out of cast iron or PVC, if the flange becomes cracked then this will allow water out of the toilet. Cracked flanges are more common with cast iron flanges because they are very brittle.

A cracked flange will either need to be replaced by removing the toilet and bolting a new one into place. Alternatively, a reinforcer can be clamped over the flange pipe to strengthen it.

5 - Clogged Flange

If the toilet flange or waste pipe is clogged then this can cause the toilet to back up. You may need to remove the toilet first before you can access the flange and get rid of the blockage.

Repairing a clogged flange can be very difficult depending on exactly where the blockage is located.

Hiring a Professional Plumber

If you're having trouble finding the leak and repairing the toilet flange then you shouldn't hesitate to contact a professional plumber. Hiring a plumber may seem like an unnecessary expense, however it really will help to get the problem fixed as quickly as possible.