In this guide, I’ll be going some of the top toilet flanges on the market – but first, let’s talk about the toilet flange. If you are not sure what in the world that is, read ahead, I’ve not only given a summary of what it is and what it does, I have included my picks for the best toilet flange available on the market!
If you are interested in other toilet related repairs I also have guides on the best toilet augers, and the best toilet fill valves.
Table Of Contents
My Top Toilet Flange Reviews
There are quite a few different toilet flanges on the marketplace, and each one has specific toilets and sizes it can be used on. So, my list includes several great options that are both durable and wide-ranging in the toilets they can be used on.
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Best All Around: Oatey 43539 Toilet Flange
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The first flange on this flange list is the [amazon link=”B000DZHDQG” title=”Oatey 43539″ /]. Overall I would say this is the best toilet flange on the market currently because of its durability and its ease of installation.
The one thing that I loved about-about the Oatey 43539 is that it is easy to install – for most of the other models in the market, it requires a lot of Googling and looking through the installation guide but for the Oatey 43539, what I found is that you can simply slip the flange in and tighten 3 bolts and seal the connection, and you are good to go!
Most of the users loved the fact that instead of calling a plumber to fix old iron flanges, they simply bought Oatey 43539 and replaced their old flanges with it. They not only saved hundreds of dollars this way but they made sure that they were replacing and old unit with a new one.
One thing that I admired about the Oatey 43539 is the fact that it is made here in the United States – that’s right, its not made overseas which means that you can expect a better overall quality. That being said, one that thing absolutely stands out with this flange is its durability. It is made of PVC cast iron which makes it extremely durable, and I have owned these flanges for years and they have outlasted a few past flanges I have installed.
The only downside I could find with the Oatey 43539 is that it is a bit pricier than its peers on the market, but I feel that it is well worth it. You are not only getting a great product but the fact that it is so effortless and straightforward to install means that you are not only saving money but also time!
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Most Durable: Next by Danco 9D0010672X
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My next choice on for the best toilet flange is the [amazon link=”B00KBBAN5K” title=”Next by Danco 9D0010672X” /] – if you need a solid pick, get the Danco today!
One thing that I love about the Danco is the fact that it is easy to install and easy to use – I was looking for a product that even novices could pick up.
The price of the Danco is a few bucks lower than my main pick, so if you want to save, then you might consider pickup up this model instead. Even more so if you are looking to replace your toilet, then you are looking upwards of thousands for a replacement, so you’re best next alternative is to replace it yourself and save tons of money.
The only downside I could find with the Danco is that it only has around a 3-inch diameter so if you need something bigger you could getting my main pick or looking for something else in the market.
Overall if you are looking for a solid product that is easy to install for an affordable price, then this Danco is a great option!
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Best Budget: PASCO 21013 Toilet Flange
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If you need a low-price alternative, take a look at my affordable pick the [amazon link=”B000FHBGEC” title=”PASCO 21013″ /] – this will not break the bank if you need something to replace the flange that you currently have.
The only thing that I disliked about the PASCO 21013 is that it might have two extra tabs on top that you may not need – this is not a big deal in fact what most people do is they just grind off the tabs if they find that it interferes with the seating of the toilet.
Now installing the PASCO 21013 is not as easy as some of the other models on this list but it certainly is not rocket science either. To be honest with you, the hardest part of installing the PASCO 21013 is drilling holes in the bathroom floor – you may need to pull out your driller and use a stainless steel ring or else you will have a rough time.
The metal on the PASCO 21013 is not as thick as some of the other models on this list but for the price that it is set at – its still pretty good. If you do need something that it more heavy duty, then something else on the market may better suit you needs.
All in all, if you are looking to save yourself form an expensive plumbing bill then you should be in good hands if you purchase the PASCO 21013 – this not only is an inexpensive flange but its straightforward to use!
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Best Kit: FlexOn Toilet Flange
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The [amazon link=”B07H8M9ZBP” title=”FlexOn Toilet Flange” /] is one of the pricier options on this list. However, this product comes with a full kit.
The Flexon Toilet Flange includes the toilet flange, 8 spacers, and a toilet seal gauge. The gauge is used to identify if the seal is made before the toilet was set above the flange. The unit is the right height for screwing in the toilet.
The Flexon toilet flange is compatible with 4-inch PVC/ABS, cast iron, or lead pipes. It also features additional seals on the sleeve to seal it to any of the pipes. The seal ensures there will be no leaks or return of odors.
The upper part also has a seal. It attaches to the toilet horn without requiring any wax. This is designed to be a strong airtight seal to ensure there’s no leakage.
It also corrects about 1-inch offsets on the toilet. It also remains intact even under small toilet movements.
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Lightweight: Oatey ABS Cast Iron Closet Flange
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The [amazon link=”B001D9QN8A” title=”Oatey ABS Cast Iron Closet Flange” /] is a lightweight flange. This closet flange fits easily in 4-inch cast iron pipes and plastic pipes. The grey rubber housing seals the position correctly against the wall of the tube.
This cast iron flange comes with 3-inch stainless steel flange bolts. These flange bolts lock the flange to your pipe from the floor. The closet flange is secured and stable with enough tightening thanks to the stainless steel bolts. What’s great about this cast iron flange is you can avoid doing caulking because it can resist water penetration.
The compression joint allows you to adjust the riser for about 3 inches. A pretty versatile option for you.
Some toilet flanges require you to tear down the bathroom floor for installation. The Oatey ABS Cast Iron Closet Flange doesn’t need you to break the surface for installation.
You don’t even need extra tools for installing this closet flange. All you need is a wrench to make sure the toilet bolts are tightly secured.
Most of its materials are made of plastic. This closet flange doesn’t easily corrode because of the plastic components compared to metal toilet flanges. The plastic frame is also surprisingly durable. You can make good use of the flange for a long time.
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NEXT BY DANCO HydroSeat Durable Toilet Flange
[amazon fields=”B076JQY87L” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center”]
The [amazon link=”B076JQY87L” title=”NEXT BY DANCO HydroSeat Durable Toilet Flange” /] is also a flexible choice that can fit every type of pipe and toilet. It is flexible because of its wax ring that secures it tightly against the pipe.
This product boasts of its Sure Seal Technology which guarantees a perfect seal and removes sewer gas smells. The technology seems to work fine and I didn’t smell any sewer gas or any leakage. I can’t say for sure if it stays the same in a couple of years though.
Aside from its Sure Seal Technology, it also features a self-centering gasket which ensures a firmer position. The toilet bolts attached to it ensure the toilet seat is comfortable and hassle-free. BeiThe HydroSeat is composed of a rubber funnel for better security.
It doesn’t take much time to install. You don’t even need to remove your old flange. Just put the wax ring on your old one and screw it tightly.
Aside from the flange, the package includes nuts, screws, a rubber funnel, and washers. However, the wax ring needs to be bought separately which is a downer. For its price, it’s reasonable and you even get a lot of necessary components.
The flange is made with powder-coated stainless steel. It’s sturdy and great for long-term use. While it is corrosion resistant with this powder-coated steel structure, stainless steel is still a compound that is prone to it so make sure you pay extra caution.
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Features to Consider for Toilet Flange
Toilets can differ in a lot of ways. In fact, there are many types of toilets around the world. Hence, it is important to know more about the features of a flange and how it relates to the type of toilet you own.
Compatibility
Compatibility is essential when you consider the drain pipe size. Drain pipes can come in different sizes. The most common sizes for drain pipes are 3 and 4 inches in diameter.
That’s why you need to check the size of your drain pipe before buying a toilet flange. You have to check if the toilet flange’s sleeve is compatible with the size of your drain pipe.
You also have the option of getting a universal fitting flange that is compatible with all drain pipe sizes. Be wary as it may become loose and not tight since it is universal.
Seal Type
Another essential part of a toilet flange is the seal. A seal can be one of the three main types. They are rubber seals, wax, or silicone seals.
The common ones are wax and rubber. With wax, you get watertight seals. However, the wax can be affected by temperature. If your bathroom is under extreme heat, the wax can melt and get greasy. During the winter, it might get too cold causing the wax to stiffen.
Hence, it’s usually not recommended to use wax if you live in such extreme climates. Do note also that the wax and seal can be destroyed when under heavy movement like removing the toilet.
Rubber is great for its reusability. You can reset the toilet numerous times without the thought of damages to it. With rubber, you need to make sure it fits snug to the pipe to prevent any toilet leak.
Silicone is probably the best option. It has the same properties as rubber while at the same time can withstand extreme temperatures.
Material
Toilet flanges are built in different types of materials. Hence, the reason there are different types of toilets. It’s important that you should know what material toilet flange is and how it impacts its use.
Plastic is the common material used for toilet flanges. Plastic toilet flanges inexpensive, durable, and reliable. Most homes use plastic flanges to save money.
Copper – Copper is highly durable and resistant to corrosion. However, you will have to spend more compared to getting a plastic one. Copper toilet flanges can be a great investment for long-term use.
Cast iron – cast iron is extremely durable. Hence, cast iron flanges are generally used to extend deep down for reaching the drain pipe.
Aluminum – aluminum is comparable to copper with less weight. It’s easily malleable though so any great pressure might affect its structural integrity.
Stainless steel – stainless steel is also a great option. It’s highly resistant to oxidation and corrosion. However, they cost a lot more in general. Some products even come with accessories such as stainless steel ring to make installation easier.
Brass: brass toilet flanges are closely similar to stainless steel and are also expensive.
It all comes down to your personal choice. If I was to recommend, getting a metallic toilet flange is the better option in the long run. While they may be expensive, you won’t have to worry about replacement for a long time.
Flange Height
You should also know the depth of the sunk pipe. It’s important to know so you can get the appropriate toilet flange that can extend to the level of depth. It’s better to consult with professionals first if you don’t know how to do it.
What Is a Toilet Flange?
If you are wondering to yourself, “what is a toilet flange”? Then you are in the right place – simply put, if you want a toilet in your house or living place, you will need a durable toilet flange. These are special devices used to mount a toilet to your house.
These flanges are plastic pieces that essentially fit between the bottom of the toilet and the piping that is built into your floor. This helps to ensure a tight fit between the two, and ensure that there are no leaking toilets.
Along with this you will need a toilet seal as well. If you are looking for repairs inside of the toilet instead of the piping, take a look at my toilet flapper reviews guide.
How to Remove a Toilet Flange
Removing toilet flanges is easy even if they are cast iron toilet flanges. As long as you have the necessary tools, you can remove your existing flange with ease. First, you have to secure your tools such as screwdrivers, adjustable wrench, putty knife, and a shop vacuum.
Turn off your water supply on the toilet first to prevent any unnecessary leakage. To turn off the water, you have to turn the knob generally found behind the toilet clockwise. Other toilet water supply knobs can be found close to the baseboard, below the toilet tank.
Flush the toilet over and over until the toilet tank and the toilet bowl are empty. If there’s still hard to remove water from the toilet bowl or the toilet tank, use a sponge to soak it up and remove it from the toilet bowl. Remove the nuts at the base of the toilet below the toilet bowl using an adjustable wrench. The nuts are generally found on both sides of the toilet.
When all the nuts are removed completely, rock the toilet slowly and gently to remove the sealing wax ring. You may need some assistance to do this safely and without accidents.
When the seal comes off, lift the toilet off the floor and move it aside. Somewhere where it won’t be a bother when you’re removing and installing the flange. Scrape the extra sealing wax using a putty knife along with any wax sticking to the underside of the toilet.
Unscrew the old flange to remove it. Check the screws if they are still in good condition for use. Replace the bad ones with new screws. Some flanges need you to use hammer or a chisel to pry out. You might even resort to using a power tool if your old flange is too hard to remove.
You’ve now completely removed your old flange. It’s better to take your old flange with you, when buying a new one at a hardware store. That way, you can use your old flange accurately compare the size to get a flange that accurately fits.
FAQ
What Kind of Toilet Flange Is the Best?
The best toilet flange is the stainless steel toilet flange types. They are generally resistant to corrosion and are rustproof. Stainless steel flange also have excellent durability and better sealing compared to PVC flanges.
How Do I Choose a Toilet Flange?
Choosing the best toilet flange for you depends on the material of the DWV pipe that is where it’s going to connect to. PVC pipe connection should have a PVC closet flange as with other pipe connections with their corresponding type of flange.
Should Toilet Flange Sit On Finished Floor?
The flange has to sit on top of the finished floor. If your toilet sits on the tile, then you have to place the flange at the top of the tile too.
Final Thoughts on Toilet Seals
In conclusion, if you need a solid toilet flange look through the toilet flange buying guide I have compiled – whether it be my main pick the Oatey 43539, my runner-up the Next by Danco 9D0010672X or even my affordable pick the PASCO 21013, I have no doubt you will be able to find something that will fit your needs.
Just remember purchase something that will not only fit your price point but also your DIY needs – if you need something heavy-duty, get something heavy-duty otherwise, just find something that’ll fit your toilet and you should be good to go. On another note, if you are looking for some toilet paper that might be better for your allergies, then take a look at my toilet paper allergies page.
