I recently removed my upstairs toilet because it was leaking into the ceiling below. The wax ring seems to be the source of the leak, but I've noticed that the flange is rusty and there's some water damage to the subfloor at the 6 o'clock position. The drain feels solid, but I'm concerned about whether the flange can be salvaged. Also, I saw that the tile and grout overlap the edge of the flange—do I need to cut that back to fit a new flange or adapter? Oh, and just to add, I accidentally dropped one of the toilet bolts down the drain. Here are some [Photos](https://imgur.com/a/vKhs8Xj) for reference!
3 Answers
It sounds like you definitely need a new flange since yours is rusty and might not have a good place for the toilet bolts anymore. You can install a new flange on top if it's compatible, just make sure it's secured well to the old one.
Honestly, it looks like you've only got half a flange left. I'd recommend cutting it out and replacing it with a new one. You can’t just place a new one on top without addressing the old one, so it’s better to go for a full replacement.
Before closing everything up, use a magnet to fish that bolt out of the drain! As for the flange, it seems okay, but poke it with a screwdriver to check if the rust is just surface-level. The subfloor is more concerning, so check if it's soft—if it is, it could need repairs.
That makes sense! I figured the old flange wouldn't hold, but I was wondering if I could just place a new one on top or if I actually have to cut out the old one. Thanks for the advice!