I will be replacing our toilets, and know from changing the rings that the flanges will need replacing also. Plumbing is on the second floor, and accessable from first floor ceiling if I take the ceilings apart. Don’t prefer to do that. Piping is PVC. What is the most efficient method of replacement with or without a plumber. I’ve installed several, but not replaced any.
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Not the only option, but a simple one. Cut the flange flush to the floor with a sawzall. Get a new flange with an expanding gasket. Picture: flange on top, portion below goes inside your current piping. Three bolts sit inside the flange, connected to a ring at the base. A neoprene gasket sits between. As the bolts tighten, the gasket expands, forming the seal. Have had to use such a thing in a concrete floor where the old toilet didn't have a flange and the bolts were so corroded I just snapped them off. They're somewhere around $25 for the part. Believe me, flush to the floor is important. If you dont get down enough, your toilet bottoms out on it. Probably not as much of an issue with other materials on top i.e. carpet. Pretty simple to put in.
Your description sounds familiar. I understand the explanation, and thank you. There is a trade name for the item. Would you know it?
Many thanks.
can you get under the sub-floor in the bathroom cut the pipe a little lower and use a coupling with new pipe and flange?
In one case I can and will get under the sub floor. I plan on replacing it, and will either do what you suggest, or use the flange replacement which inserts into the existing waste.
Thank you.
Phil,
there are three types of PVC flanges available for 3" or 4" pipe.
The first is a male which fits inside a fitting
the second is a female which fits outside a piece of pipe just like a fitting.
the third is a special male that fits INSIDE a piece of pipe.
Cut off flange portion of the flange (one plumber I knew used a small 1-1/2" circ. saw blade on a drill arbor to cut from the inside, but a sawzall will work)
then one of the above should fill the bill.
Mr TDo not try this at home!
I am a trained professional!