How to Repair or Replace a Toilet Flange

Step 1. Turn off the water and remove the toilet.

Start by turning off the water connection by rotating the knob on the water supply valve behind the toilet in a clockwise motion. Next, flush the toilet to drain the tank.

Pro Tip: You will want to hold the toilet handle down so that as much water as possible drains from the tank and the bowl.

Remove excess water using Oatey Liquilock to solidify the remaining water.

Measure the Liquidlock to the top thread of the cap and pour into the remaining water in the toilet. After at least 4 minutes, the water should be visibly transformed into a slush-like substance.

Next, disconnect the water supply tube from the toilet fill valve and the 3/8 inch compression nut. You are then free to remove the toilet confident that you will avoid any water spillage.

Pro Tip: Click here for more information on Liquilock.

Step 2. Inspect the flange.

First, look for:

• Cracks or breaks in the ring
• Rust or corrosion (especially on metal flanges)
• Improper height (flange should sit on top of or level with the finished floor)
• Signs of water damage or prior leakage

Next, use a flashlight to inspect the inside of the pipe. If you're unsure, a visual inspection during a flush can help identify leaks. Finally, remove any broken or corroded sections of the flange.

Step 3. Determine the fix - repair, raise, or replace.

Oatey offers repair or replacement solutions for various toilet flange issues:

• If the flange or ring has minor damage, use an Oatey® Fix-it Flange Repair Ring.
• If the flange is below floor level, raise the flange height using Oatey® Set-Rite® Toilet Flange Spacers.
• If the flange is badly damaged or corroded, replace it entirely with a new flange.

Step 4. Choose the right toilet flange repair product

Choosing the right flange isn't a one-size-fits-all approach; it depends on the pipe material (PVC, ABS, or cast iron), connection method, floor height, and the application type (new installation, repair, or offset in tight spaces).

Here is a breakdown of repair and adjustment products:

Read our Toilet Flange Selection Guide for more guidance and insight on selecting the right flange for your project.

Step 5. Clean the pipe and floor.

Scrape away old wax. Clean the pipe surface thoroughly. Vacuum or wipe debris from the floor around the opening.

Step 6. Install the repair product.

Once you have decided on your ideal repair solution, follow the installation instructions provided with the product.

If you are using a Fix It Repair Ring:

• Remove the broken or corroded portions of the existing flange.
• Apply a liberal amount of 100% silicone sealant to the remaining flange surface.
• Install new Johni-bolts (if existing bolt slots remain).
• Press and secure the repair ring to the subfloor in proper alignment.
• Fasten the bolts to the repair ring using the supplied hardware.
• Clean off any excess silicone and allow it to cure before reattaching the toilet.

If you are replacing a cast iron, PVC or ABS flange with the Twist-N-Set® Repair Flange:

• Remove the old flange.
• Thread the rubber gasket onto the flange until the gasket expands to meet the inside walls of the pipe.
• Tilt and twist the flange until the gasket begins to grip the pipe.
• Level and push the flange flush with the floor while using the closet bolts to complete the tightening process.
• Align the flange and screw it into place on the floor.

If you are correcting the flange height with the Oatey® Set-Rite® Toilet Flange Spacer Kit:

• Place the foam gasket on the existing flange surface. The existing flange must be without defects and properly secured to the subfloor.
• Next, determine the spacer size or combination of spacers required to correct the flange height. Spacers are offered in 1/8-, 1/4-, 1/2-, and 3/4-inch sizes. Place spacer(s) directly onto the foam gasket.
• Take the yellow flange extender and push down to seal within the foam gasket opening. Push down until it is correctly seated on top of the red spacer(s).
• Ensure Johni-Bolt slots are aligned for proper toilet bowl installation. Use six self-tapping stainless steel screws to fasten the extender, spacer(s), and gasket to the subfloor using a power drill driver.
• Install Johni-Bolts® in slots (sold separately).

Step 7. Reinstall the toilet with a new seal.

Place a standard wax ring (sold separately) onto the repair ring, flange, or flange extender, which will become the new sealing surface for the toilet bowl installation. Never reuse an old ring.

Different types of wax rings and seals exist to accommodate various toilet and flange configurations. It is important to choose the right one to ensure a secure, leak-free installation. Learn more: Oatey 101: Wax Rings.

Align and lower the toilet carefully, compressing the seal to ensure a secure fit. Tighten the bolts evenly. Reconnect the water supply and test for leaks.

When to Use an Offset Toilet Flange

Offset flanges shift the toilet connection up to two inches in any direction, which is ideal when:

• Rough-in distance is off (e.g., 10 inches instead of 12 inches)
• Obstructions like joists or ducts are in the way
• You're retrofitting over concrete.

Pro Tip: When using offset flanges, dry-fit and mark your alignment. Offset models are not adjustable after they are solvent-cemented.

To learn more about offset flanges, read: Should I Use an Offset Toilet Flange?