How much does it cost to replace a toilet flange?
How much does it cost to replace a toilet flange?
$85 – $350 average cost
Average cost to replace toilet flange
The cost to replace a toilet flange is $85 to $350 on average. Labor accounts for $75 to $300 for a simple flange replacement, while the toilet flange and wax ring materials cost $10 to $50. Complex flange replacements or projects that involve water damage repairs have higher costs.
| Factor | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Labor (1 – 2 hours) | $75 – $300 |
| Materials | $10 – $50 |
| Average total flange replacement cost | $85 – $350* |
*Many plumbers have minimum job fees of $100 to $200.
Labor
Plumber labor costs $75 to $150 per hour, and a simple toilet flange replacement takes 1 to 2 hours to remove the toilet, detach and replace the old flange, install a new wax seal, and reseat the toilet properly. If the old flange is corroded, set in concrete, or difficult to access, the costs increase.
Other labor may be required beyond just the flange replacement. Depending on the extent and duration of the leak, the surrounding subfloor could be rotted or severely water-damaged, requiring sections to be cut out and replaced with new subfloor material. In extreme cases, the leak may require more extensive labor for drywall replacement and mold remediation.
Drywall installation costs $1.50 to $3.50 per square foot installed.
Subfloor replacement costs $2.20 to $4.75 per square foot installed.
Mold remediation costs $15 to $30 per square foot.
Materials
A new toilet flange costs $5 to $25 for the most common PVC flange suitable for homes with plastic drain pipes. The flange material directly affects the cost and long-term durability and must be compatible with the home's existing drain pipe material to ensure a properly sealed connection.
Replacing the toilet flange also requires a new wax ring and may require additional spacer rings. These materials add $5 to $25 to the total cost.
| Flange materials | Average cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| PVC flange | $5 – $20 | Most widely used material for toilet flanges in residential plumbing because it is inexpensive, lightweight, and resistant to most household chemicals |
| Stainless steel flange | $6 – $25 | Highly corrosion-resistant and durable, making them suitable for homes with aggressive water conditions or harsh chemical cleaners |
| Cast iron flange | $20 – $50 | Commonly used in older homes before the advent of PVC and plastics but is now less common due to the cost and weight |
| Brass flange | $30 – $75 | Offer superior corrosion resistance compared to PVC, especially in areas with hard water or acidic conditions that can degrade plastic over time |
| Wax ring | $5 – $10 | Made of thick wax that compresses and forms a gasket when the toilet is lowered onto it, preventing sewer gases from escaping into the bathroom |
| Spacer rings | $5 – $15 | Often needed when the existing toilet flange is set too low into the floor. The spacer allows raising it to the ideal height flush with or slightly above the finished floor surface |
The standard toilet flange height is between 1/4 inch and 1/2 inch above the finished floor. This allows for a proper seal between the toilet base and the flange while leaving enough space for the wax ring.
DIY toilet flange replacement cost
Replacing a toilet flange yourself costs $10 to $50 for a toilet flange kit, wax ring, and spacers. While it can be a DIY project, it requires significant physical strength to move the heavy toilet, as well as plumbing knowledge.
An improper DIY installation risks costly future issues like leaks, pipe damage, or code violations that may necessitate expensive repairs.
Toilet flange replacement cost factors
Several factors affect the cost of replacing a toilet flange, including:
Labor cost: Labor rates vary by location, with higher rates in areas with a higher cost of living. Also, more complex jobs involving additional repairs can significantly increase labor time and costs.
Flange material: Plastic and stainless-steel flanges are the most inexpensive, while brass or cast iron flanges cost much more.
Project complexity: Simple replacements involve removing the toilet and old flange and installing a new one. Costs increase for complex jobs like adjusting pipe height for proper flange positioning.
Additional toilet repairs: Other toilet repairs cost $130 to $300 and may be combined with a flange replacement, including replacing a toilet seat, installing a new flapper and chain in the tank, or upgrading other toilet components like the supply line or shutoff valve.
Damage repairs: A leaky toilet left unaddressed can lead to extensive water damage requiring subfloor repairs, flooring replacement, and mold remediation, potentially costing thousands of dollars in addition to the flange replacement cost.
Concrete slab: If the flange is set in a concrete slab foundation, it will require cutting into the concrete, which can significantly increase costs.
Permits: Some areas may require permits for plumbing work, adding to the total cost.
Toilet flange repair FAQs
Can you repair a toilet flange?
Yes, in some cases, using a flange repair ring is an easier and more cost-effective option than completely replacing a toilet flange that is flush with or below the finished floor level. The repair ring slips over the existing flange and extends it upward to the proper height to prevent leaks.
Who replaces a toilet flange?
A toilet flange is best replaced by a professional plumber with the tools and expertise to handle any complications that may arise, such as a cracked drainpipe or a flange that is difficult to remove. DIY flange replacement can be challenging, and improper installation can lead to leaks or other issues.
How long does it typically take to replace a toilet flange?
For a basic replacement with the existing flange in good condition, most plumbers estimate around 1 to 2 hours of labor, providing no major complications arise. Unforeseen issues like a cracked drainpipe, improper venting, or needing to adjust the pipe height for the new flange can extend the job to half a day or longer.
When should you replace a toilet flange?
You should replace a toilet flange when there is visible damage, leaks, or odors or as a preventative measure every 6 to 7 years. The cost to replace a toilet typically includes a new toilet flange. Most plumbers don’t recommend reusing an old flange due to the risk of leaks or instability of the new toilet.
Getting estimates from plumbers
When hiring a plumber near you, follow these suggestions:
Contact at least 3 different licensed plumbers in your area and request estimates to compare prices and services.
Clearly explain if you need a full flange replacement or just a repair using a repair ring. Provide details like the type of existing flange and any known issues.
Find out if the plumbers charge a flat rate for the repair or replacement or if they charge by the hour plus materials cost.
Request written estimates from each plumber detailing the scope of work, materials, labor costs, timeline, and any warranties or guarantees included.
Ask if there may be extra charges for things like removing/reinstalling the toilet, repairing any water damage, or permit fees.
Verify the plumbers are licensed, insured, and have good customer reviews before hiring.
If you need any other plumbing work done, see if bundling it with the flange job can provide a discount.
Questions to ask a plumber
If you need a toilet flange replacement, ask the plumber these questions:
Do you have experience with toilet flange replacements?
What is included in the quoted price? Does the price cover labor, materials, and any additional fees like permit costs or disposal fees?
What type of flange will be used?
Are there any existing issues like a cracked drain pipe, improper venting, or the need to adjust the pipe height that could increase the complexity of the job?
How long will the replacement take?
Is there a warranty or guarantee on the work?
Will the repair require a permit?
Will you be removing and reinstalling the toilet? Is that an additional charge?
When can the work be scheduled?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.