Toilet Flange Repair
A broken or loose toilet flange makes the toilet rock and can leak at the base. Most cracked flanges can be fixed with a metal repair ring or spanner flange for under $30 in parts. A plumber usually charges $150 to $400. If the subfloor is rotted, the repair costs more.
Typical pro cost
$150 to $400
- Urgency
- Fix soon
- DIY difficulty
- Moderate
- Time to fix
- 1 to 2 hours
- Prices
- US typical range
Last reviewed September 2026
Signs it's this problem
- Toilet rocks or moves
- Water or stains around the base
- Sewer smell near the toilet
- Loose or broken closet bolts
- Soft floor around the toilet
Common causes
Cracked flange
Plastic flanges break when the toilet rocks or bolts are overtightened.
Corroded metal ring
Old cast iron and steel rings rust through.
Flange too low
After new flooring, the flange may sit below the floor so the wax ring does not seal.
Rotted subfloor
Long-term leaks weaken the wood under the flange.
How to fix it, step by step
- 1
Turn off the water supply and flush to empty the tank and bowl; sponge out the rest.
- 2
Disconnect the supply line, remove the nuts and lift the toilet onto an old towel.
- 3
Scrape off the old wax and inspect the flange and floor.
- 4
For a cracked flange, screw a stainless repair ring or spanner flange over it into the subfloor.
- 5
If the flange is below the floor, use a flange extender or a thicker wax ring.
- 6
Set the toilet on a new wax ring with new bolts, tighten evenly without overtightening, reconnect and test for leaks.
Tools and materials
- Adjustable wrench
- Putty knife
- Flange repair ring
- New wax ring and bolts
- Gloves and towels
Approximate DIY cost: $15–$50
Call a pro when
- The subfloor is soft or rotted
- The flange is glued into the pipe and must be cut out
- Cast iron drain pipe
Toilet Flange Repair cost
| Job | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Plumber: flange repair ring | $150–$300 |
| Plumber: full flange replacement | $200–$400 |
| Subfloor repair under a toilet | $300–$1,000 |
| Reset toilet with new wax ring | $100–$250 |
Ranges are typical US prices compiled by FixHomeCost. Prices vary by region, home and contractor, so compare 2–3 local quotes.
Common questions
How do I know if my toilet flange is broken?
A toilet that rocks, leaks at the base or smells of sewer gas often has a cracked or loose flange. You will see it when the toilet is lifted.
Can I repair a toilet flange without replacing it?
Yes, a repair ring or spanner flange screws over the broken one and restores a solid mount in most cases.
Should the toilet flange be above or below the floor?
Ideally the flange sits on top of the finished floor. A flange below the floor needs an extender or thicker seal.
How long does a wax ring last?
A properly seated wax ring can last 20 to 30 years, but a rocking toilet breaks the seal much sooner.
Related guides
This is general information, not a professional inspection. See how we research costs.