Symptoms
- Toilet rocks even after tightening the base bolts
- Wax ring keeps failing repeatedly
- Visible cracked plastic or rusted metal ring under the toilet base when removed
- Bolts pull loose from the flange when tightened
Likely causes
- CommonCracked plastic flangePVC flanges can crack from over-tightened bolts or age, losing their ability to hold the toilet steady.
- CommonCorroded metal flangeOlder cast iron or steel flanges rust and weaken over decades.
- PossibleFlange sitting too low after a flooring changeNew tile or flooring installed without adjusting the flange height leaves it below the finished floor, causing seal problems.
What to do
- Remove the toilet to get a clear look at the flange (see the wax-ring-leak guide for toilet removal steps).
- Inspect the flange for visible cracks, rust-through, or bolts that pull out of it.
- For a flange sitting slightly low, use a flange extender kit or spacer ring rather than trying to compensate with an extra-thick wax ring alone.
- For a cracked or badly corroded flange, plan on flange repair or replacement, which may involve accessing the drain pipe below.
- Reinstall the toilet with a new wax ring only after the flange itself is solid and properly leveled.
Tools and parts
- Screwdriver
- Adjustable wrench
- Flange repair or extender kit
Toilet flange repair kitSearch: “toilet flange repair or extender ring kit”
When to call a pro
Call a plumber for flange repair or replacement, especially if it involves cutting into the drain pipe or the subfloor around it.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.