How to Replace a Wax Seal on the Toilet

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

In many cases, a puddle of water at the base of the toilet is a sign that the seal is bad.

How to Replacing a Toilet Wax Seal

A leaking toilet can cause a whole host of unpleasant, and sometimes expensive, problems. Most toilets, with the correct care, can last up to 40 years without trouble. Without minimal attention, however, unaddressed leaks and could cause significant damages.

Diagnose the Problem

If you see water leaking out from below the toilet, act immediately to diagnose and fix the problem before your Essington, PA, home suffers structural damage. Most of the time, this type of trouble happens when the wax seal fails. Simply, replacing the gasket should provide the necessary watertight seal and resolve this toilet repair.

Plan the Repair

In many cases, a puddle of water at the base of the toilet is a sign that the seal is bad. Occasionally, however, there is a different problem. Some examples include

• A faulty shutoff valve
• A cracked tank on an old toilet
• Loose supply tubes
• A sweaty toilet bowl

These problems may require the attention of an experienced professional. After determining the leak does come from under the toilet, try tightening the closet bolts at the base of the toilet. You may resolve the problem by adding more pressure on the wax gasket. Just be careful not to put too much pressure on the bolts or you'll crack the toilet's base.

Remove the Toilet

If tightening the bolts doesn't solve the problem, turn off the water at the shutoff value, and remove the tank lid. Flush the toilet while holding the handle down until as much water as possible has drained from the tank. After all water has been removed, gently rock the toilet back and forth to break the existing wax seal.

Complete the Repair

Remove the broken wax ring and scrape away any remaining wax. At this point, you may notice indications of another necessary toilet repair, such as a cracked flange. Otherwise, set the new gasket down onto the closet flange, centering it for the best results and replace the toilet, replacing the supply tube and bolts as you go.