Can a cracked toilet base be repaired?

Author: Laurence Batz DVM  |  Last update: Friday, September 8, 2023

Repair Options
Epoxy can also be effective for cracks at the base of the toilet, such as cracks or breakage around the bolts that secure the toilet to the floor. You can try repairing cracks under the water line with epoxy, but remember that it often doesn't work. In that case, replacement is the only option.

Why would a toilet base crack?

For example, fixing a broken component inside the tank and putting the lid back on the tank too hard can cause the toilet to crack around its top. Also, tightening bolts around the bottom of the toilet too tightly can cause the base of the toilet to crack.

Is a cracked toilet base bad?

A hairline crack outside of the tank or bowl may only be cosmetic and quite easy to repair, but a hairline crack inside the bowl or tank usually indicates that it has to be replaced. It's even more imperative to replace the toilet if there are multiple hairline cracks.

Can a cracked porcelain toilet be repaired?

If it's just a minor chip, you can always try to super glue the piece back on. There's a special kind of epoxy glue for porcelain, FYI. Try that and see if it works. But if it's a major crack, or a crack in any part of the toilet that handles water or waste, we highly recommend that you replace the toilet.

Can a plumber fix a cracked toilet?

If there are any cracks inside the bowl, the whole toilet must be replaced. This is because the bowl bears all of the weight of not just the toilet, but anyone using it. This could cause serious injury and damage to the bathroom if it's not replaced. A qualified plumber can replace the toilet easily.

Cracked toilet fix! No leak, no plumber, just a cheap fix.

How do you fix a crack in a porcelain toilet base?

If you have a hairline crack in the tank or the bowl, you may be able to stop the leak by sealing the crack with waterproof epoxy. Epoxy can also be effective for cracks at the base of the toilet, such as cracks or breakage around the bolts that secure the toilet to the floor.

Can Flex seal fix a cracked toilet?

Flex Glue can be used for an assortment of bathroom repairs. Customers often use the waterproof glue to fix toilet tanks, shower tiles, sink pipes, and other bathroom needs.

Can you still use a cracked toilet?

If there are any cracks inside the bowl, the whole toilet must be replaced. This is because the bowl bears all of the weight of not just the toilet, but anyone using it. This could cause serious injury and damage to the bathroom if it's not replaced. A qualified plumber can replace the toilet easily.

When should I replace my cracked toilet?

Identify the problem—If the crack's inside your tank and is more than 1/16 inch wide, you should replace your tank. External hairline cracks are frequently cosmetic and can be repaired by sealing them with plumbing epoxy. Cracks on the bowl's interior are cause for concern and may require replacing your toilet.

What to do with a cracked toilet?

Any hairline cracks below the waterline will require a bit of patching with epoxy. Larger cracks below the water line means the toilet needs to be replaced entirely. While a patch can be done DIY, it is always best to consult with a professional plumber.

Should you silicone around the base of a toilet?

The quick answer is yes.

You should caulk around the base of a toilet. Caulking keeps the toilet secure and reduces the possibility of water contamination from other sources like mopping, shower splash, and if you have young children, misguided potty training.

Is it better to repair or replace an old toilet?

A well-trained plumber would not recommend a replacement unless the original toilet was broken beyond repair, even if that is the case they may recommend moving toilets to different bathrooms to minimize any future stoppages.

How do you fix a hairline crack in a toilet base?

How to repair a hairline crack
  1. Drain the toilet tank. ...
  2. Dry out the tank with a cloth or a towel. ...
  3. Fill the crack with the putty or epoxy. ...
  4. Leave the epoxy to dry out for at least 24 hours. ...
  5. Make sure no cracks appear in the epoxy or the tank. ...
  6. Refill the tank with water.

How long should a toilet last?

The first thing you should do when considering replacing your toilet is to look at the age. Most plumbers agree that an average toilet can last around 50 years. However, this is only when the toilet is well maintained and gently used.

How much does it cost to fix a leak at the base of a toilet?

It costs between $150 and $300 to fix a leaking toilet in most cases. The cost would be a lot more if the leak has caused damage to your floor or if it's a recurring problem.

What are the signs that you need a new toilet?

Below, we'll discuss eight signs that it may be time for a toilet replacement.
  • Constant Clogging. Nobody likes to deal with a clogged toilet. ...
  • Cracks. ...
  • Plentiful Repairs. ...
  • Excessive Age. ...
  • Wobbling. ...
  • Inefficient Flushing. ...
  • Surface Damages. ...
  • Built-Up Mineral Deposits.

Can a cracked toilet cause a leak?

A cracked toilet can cause leaks or even a blow-out that can cause flood damage in the bathroom and surrounding areas. If it happens when you are not home, the damage could be extensive.

Should I replace my 20 year old toilet?

A general rule of thumb is to replace a toilet around every 25 years, though your mileage may vary. You might also want to consider replacing your toilet if it was installed before 1994.

How much does it cost to replace a toilet?

Toilets, by themselves, can cost between $100 and $450 at home improvement stores and labor costs can vary, depending on the plumber and the amount of work needed. The total costs including labor and materials can range between $225 and $700 averaging at $375.

What kind of glue to use on a porcelain toilet?

If you have a project that requires gap bonding or filling, surface repairs or laminating, the best glue for porcelain or ceramic repairs will be an epoxy. An epoxy consists of two parts: resin and hardener. When mixed together, they produce a durable, high strength bond.

How do you fix cracks in ceramic?

The most effective method of fixing cracks and missing pieces on a broken ceramic object is by using a cold-materials process. This can involve materials such as adhesives, fillers, paints, and glaze. With some of these materials at hand, you can easily repair broken pieces or repair lines on your ceramic piece.

What sealant to use on cracked toilet bowl?

A waterproof epoxy putty is the best repair material to fix a toilet bowl crack with. An epoxy starts off as two soft materials.

How long does Flex Seal last once applied?

Flex Seal will last years when correctly applied. If you notice cracking or peeling, clean the area and apply a new coat to enjoy more watertight sealing.

What is the best glue to fix a broken toilet?

Aboweld 55-22 is the perfect interior or exterior adhesive when a repair requires a very strong bond. It works well on a porcelain throne in addition to virtually any rigid surface. It's a two part epoxy compound that has a Vaseline-like consistency when mixed, good for both filling and bonding.

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