Toilets, Sinks, Showers, Tubs and Disposals - How hard is it to lower a closet flange?

I replaced the entire floor (all three layers) and attempting to install the toilet realize that the flange is at least 1/2" too high.

What to do?

One thought is to lay down an piece of (nicely cut) concrete board to make up the difference.

Another is to cut the pipe and replace the flange. But no idea how difficult this might be.

My building was constructed in late 60's, if that helps...

Michael

What material is the pipe coming up and flange?
Cast-iron? Plastic....i'm guessing cast-iron from the age of the house.

I'll wait for an answer before i give you your answer..as the material makes a huge difference in your options.

I realized I should have mentioned that: it is cast iron. From what I can tell, it appears to be one piece.

Is there any good news???

Thanks for the reply.

Michael

Nope..none. :(

Your only 2 options i can think of are:

1) Get below the floor and lower it.
2) You can take a grinder of some sort, wear eye protection, and grind the flange off and also grind the pipe down a couple inches...as far as you can get. Be careful and only use a grinder..not a saw or anything cause if you crack the pipe your in more trouble then when you started. Then you can buy a PVC flange that comes with a rubber seal you can use to attach to the cast iron pipe (goes inside it and expands).

Neither option is easy. I forgot:
3) raise the floor .5"
4) Shim the toilet .5" (will look like crud)

Would of been easier when you had the floor stripped before you added the new flooring back.