A toilet is one of those home fixtures that don’t get a lot of attention unless something goes wrong. And when that happens, you want it fixed fast! One of the most important parts of your toilet is the flange. While out of sight and out of mind, this small part is the unsung hero of a well-functioning toilet. If it breaks, it can cause major problems in your home.
Read on to learn more about what a toilet flange is and how to tell that yours may need to be replaced.
What is a Toilet Flange?
A toilet flange sits underneath the base of the toilet and connects the toilet to the drain pipe. Generally made of plastic or metal and between three and four inches in diameter, the bottom part of the flange sits just inside the drain pipe under the floor while the top part sits at the same height as your bathroom floor. The toilet sits on top of this flange, with a wax seal between the flange and the toilet base to provide a water-tight seal.
Over time, It may deteriorate or break, or the wax seal may wear out. If not repaired or replaced.
Signs Your Toilet Flange May Need to Be Replaced
If you suspect your toilet flange is broken, it’s important to contact a licensed plumber as soon as possible to prevent damage. Some signs you may need toilet flange repair include:
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Visible Leaks: Any time there’s a visible leak around the base of a toilet, it’s important to identify where it’s coming from and repair the problem before any damage is done to the flooring and subfloor.
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Sewer Odors: If the seal between the toilet and the toilet flange isn’t properly connected, it can allow odors to drift up and out into the bathroom. In some cases, the toilet flange and wax seal just need to be tightened. But if they are damaged or broken, they’ll need to be replaced.
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Loose Floor Tiles: In some cases, the leaking water will weaken the connection of the tiles to the subfloor and cause the tiles around the toilet base to become loose.
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Rocking Toilet: If the connection between the toilet flange and the toilet has come loose, the toilet can become wobbly and may also lead to leaks, resulting in small water puddles forming around it.
How Often Should a Toilet Flange Be Replaced?
A flange can last between 5 and 20 years depending on the material it’s made from and the amount of wear and tear it receives. If you notice any of the above signs, contact Anthony’s Plumbing to inspect your flange and replace it if needed. The sooner we get to work, chances are the less of a problem – and lower the cost – it will be to eliminate the source of potential damage. Contact us today or anytime to schedule service.
