John Goad

You’ve got everything you need, it’s not a bad job if you take your time.

Biggest thing is making sure the flange is in good shape and sitting about level with the floor. If it’s too low or busted, that’s where problems start.

I usually stick with a wax ring. It’s simple and it works. The rubber ones are fine too, just a little more forgiving if you have to lift the toilet back up and reset it.

When you set it, try to drop it straight down onto the bolts don’t wiggle it around too much or you’ll mess up the seal. Then press down (I just sit on it) to compress the wax.

Tighten the bolts slowly, going back and forth side to side. Don’t overdo it people crack the base that way more often than you’d think. If it rocks at all, shim it before tightening everything down.

Hook up the water, turn it on, flush a few times and check around the base and supply line. If it’s dry, you’re good.

It’s one of those jobs that feels intimidating but is actually pretty straightforward once you’re into it.

Man, that’s a nasty surprise to find under the house

Honestly, I don’t think it’s buildup stopping it from fitting back together. More likely the pipe shifted or sagged, so now nothing lines up anymore. Once those sewer lines move, they don’t just pop back in.

Your idea of cutting out a section and rebuilding it is the right direction. I’d just add one thing use a rubber coupling (Fernco with the metal bands) on at least one side. Gives you a little wiggle room to get everything lined up without fighting it.

Also I wouldn’t trust tape for support. Grab some real pipe hangers or metal strapping and support it every few feet, especially on both sides of that tee. That’s probably why it dropped in the first place.

For cutting, hacksaw will do it, just takes a bit. If you’ve got access to a Sawzall it’ll make your life way easier.

Definitely dry fit everything first before gluing. If you have to force it, it’s gonna fail again later.

You’re on the right track though

If a pipe bursts, act fast to reduce damage:

1. Shut off main water supply
2. Open faucets to release pressure
3. Move valuables away
4. Dry area as much as possible

Water damage spreads quickly, so early action matters.

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