[Kelt]

Hi, new here, and new to plumbing too!
I've got an old house (built 1900) pretty certain the soil pipes are cast iron.
Removed old toilet and found rusted, bent stuff under and around the flange. OK I bent it some, as the bolts were seized (I'll let myself believe it was "hard water deposits"), but the rusting was already there. Honest :D



Firstly what is this ring called, it was metal, with pvc beneath it, the bowl bolts went through it.
It was situated under (and around ?) the flange.
Secondly How do I effect a correct repair? Are there split rings that will encircle and bolt? Do I need more than just the metal ring, does it all come in one package?
Oh, it's a 3 inch soil pipe.
Thanks in advance.

[massplumber2008]

Hi Kelt:

Looks like an ABS plastic closet flange there... ;) The ring is a closet flange ring.

You could replace JUST the ring by purchasing a CLAMSHELL replacement closet flange ring (click on the attachment:theclam2.pdf at the bottom left of this post). Check to see if a local plumbing supply house has this or something similar. Home supply stores will only carry quick fix stuff.. go to plumber's supply house and talk to the COUNTER GUYS.. they should be able to find something helpful. If not, the clamshell is available online!

Basically, you would bring the new floor to same level as old floor and then you slip the clamshell flange into the slotted part of the old flange and then secure through the finish floor and into the cement backerboard underneath it.

You may also be able to cut the entire closet flange out by using an inside pipe cutter (see pic. Below). You will need to determine if there is room between the closet flange and the elbow underneath it to be able to cut the pipe. Looking down into the pipe you should have at least 5-6 inches of pipe for this to be possible.

If enough pipe present, stuff rag into the drain pipe... then set an inside cutter tool (see picture... purchase at plumbing supply house as well) into a drill and make a level cut about 3.5" down inside the pipe.

Then you should just need to purchase a 4"x3" ABS closet flange (really just a 3" closet flange here, but called a 4x3.. ok? ) and a 3" ABS coupling as well as ABS cement (read cans) and a small piece of 3" ABS pipe. And install a new flange.

If installing a new flange make the inside cut early on... then install the flooring and the tile floor (if tile) and THEN install the new flange and secure through the finish floor into the CEMENT backerboard underneath.

Plug all sewer pipes with a large rag or a cap (after cutting pipe) while construction is going on around the house.

If need any information on hardibacker cement board and how to install that properly check out the following website:

James Hardie: HardieBacker 1/2'' backerboard

Check out info. On floor instalations!

Let us know if you need more information... glad to help here.

MARK