Removing an existing toilet flange is a necessary step when replacing a damaged flange or upgrading your bathroom. The process involves detaching the old flange from the drain pipe and the floor.
Here are the general steps to remove an existing toilet flange:
Before you begin, ensure the toilet has been removed and the water supply is shut off. Drain any remaining water from the tank and bowl.
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Inspect the Flange Type and Fasteners: Toilet flanges are typically made of PVC, ABS, cast iron, or brass. They can be attached to the drain pipe and the floor in various ways:
- Screwed into the subfloor.
- Glued onto the outside of a pipe (slip-over).
- Glued inside a pipe (inside-the-pipe).
- Clamped or compressed onto a pipe.
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Remove Floor Fasteners: If the flange is screwed to the floor, use a screwdriver or drill to remove the screws securing it. These are usually located around the perimeter of the flange base.
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Detach from the Drain Pipe:
- Glued Flanges: If the flange is glued (common with PVC/ABS), you will likely need to cut it off. Use an oscillating tool, a hacksaw blade, or a specialty pipe cutter designed for working inside pipes. Cut around the base where the flange meets the pipe. Be careful not to damage the drain pipe itself.
- Push-In/Compression Flanges: Some flanges are pushed into the pipe and sealed with a rubber gasket or compression ring. These may require prying or twisting to loosen.
- Metal Flanges: Cast iron or brass flanges might be leaded or bolted onto the pipe. Removal can be more complex and might require cutting tools for metal or specialized plumbing tools.
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Remove Bolts and Old Flange: Then remove the bolts and take off the old flange. This refers to removing any remaining bolts that were used to secure the toilet and might still be attached to the flange, as well as the flange itself once all its primary fasteners are removed. Carefully lift or pry the old flange away from the drain pipe and the floor.
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Clean the Area: Clean the area around the sewer drain. Remove any old wax ring residue, caulk, or debris from the top of the drain pipe and the surrounding floor area. A putty knife and rag can be helpful for this step.
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Plug the Drain Opening: Then plug the hole with rags to prevent sewer gases from entering your home. This is a crucial step to prevent unpleasant and potentially hazardous sewer gas from escaping into the bathroom while the drain is open.
Essential Tools
Having the right tools makes the job easier and safer.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Screwdriver or Drill | Removing screws from the floor |
| Putty Knife | Scraping away old wax and debris |
| Rags | Plugging the drain opening |
| Oscillating Tool | Cutting plastic flanges glued into pipes |
| Hacksaw Blade | Manual cutting of plastic or metal flanges |
| Pry Bar | Loosening and lifting the old flange |
| Safety Glasses | Protecting your eyes from debris |
| Gloves | Keeping hands clean and protected |
Removing a toilet flange can sometimes reveal underlying issues with the drain pipe or subfloor. Be prepared to address these if necessary before installing the new flange.
