However, cracks in the toilet tank can appear over time, no matter what precautionary measures are taken to prevent them.
It's unusual for a toilet tank to crack out of nowhere, especially if no one was using it at the time. If the tank-to-bowl gasket has been leaking for a while, the constant exposure to moisture could have weakened the porcelain. Especially if there's a sudden change in temperature or pressure.
The average homeowner typically replaces their toilet every 10 to 15 years. However, when properly cared for, a toilet can last up to 50 years or longer. Toilets usually show signs that they need a repair or replacement, but some reach the end of their lifespan with little or no physical signs.
Tank: A toilet tank replacement costs $50–$100. Cracks, stains, and discoloration are signs it's time to change it. Bowl: A new toilet bowl averages $70–$100 without labor, but a new toilet could be more cost-effective. The bowl is the main toilet part, so if damaged, it can cause leaks and wobble.
Fill the crack with plumbers putty, flex glue, aboweld 55-22, or some other waterproof adhesive rated for porcelain and let it dry. This should be a temporary measure until you can find a replacement tank or replace the entire toilet. Replace it as soon as you can afford to.
You can tell if the toilet bowl tank has a hairline crack if you begin to notice that the filling mechanism or toilet bowl isn't holding water like usual.
Flex Glue can help seal and bond cracks in the toilet bowl or tank. It's important to note that Flex Seal products are not designed for high-pressure applications, so they wouldn't be suitable for repairing the hose carrying water to the toilet. You may need to call a plumber for that one!
Small hairline cracks in toilet tanks can often be repaired by using a plumber's putty or a waterproof silicone epoxy sealant. The repair is best performed when the tank is drained, dried out, and filled with putty or epoxy. If larger cracks are leaking considerably, the safest option may be to replace the entire tank.
Some problems require expensive, complicated repairs. If you encounter these issues frequently, scheduling a replacement will most likely be the most cost-effective solution, as you can save money.
Although the repair can be done to some extent using a wet seal (with varying results) the most ideal way is to drain the tank completely and then fixing the area by poly welding.
However, on average, a well-maintained and high-quality porcelain toilet can last anywhere from 20 to 50 years. With regular care, proper maintenance, and attention to potential issues, you can maximize the lifespan of your toilet and potentially extend it beyond the average.
If you experience clogs more than once a week, or the clogs seem random and odd, you should probably replace your toilet. If you don't want to lose the water-saving benefits of a low-flush toilet, simply replace your current toilet with a more efficient and effective commode.
You should clean the toilet tank twice per year. If your area has hard water, clean the tank quarterly to keep the flush valves in good working order. If your bathroom is in a warmer environment that gets muggy or humid and gets moldy often, clean the tank once a month.
Mechanical stress occurs when the tank's structure is compromised after a physical impact with another object, over pressurization, improper venting, or rigid plumbing that doesn't allow natural expansion and contraction of the tank. In cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) tanks, tank cracking can produce small leaks.
In this situation, the best thing to do is call a professional to fix the crack. They'll be able to properly seal the crack without causing any further damage. Unfortunately, if your tank has a large crack, you'll probably have to replace it and might even have to replace the entire toilet.
The two most common causes of a toilet leak are the flapper or fill valve. To check for these leaks, lift the tank lid and look at the back wall of the toilet tank. You will see a water line that marks the level at which water fills the tank.
With average costs for toilet installation ranging from $224 to $533, most people around the country are paying $374 for toilet installation costs. While they are paying $120 on the lower end, installation costs can go as high as $826 in some cases.
But, the rule of thumb is to replace your toilet every 25 years, due to damage and regular wear and tear. If you have an older toilet, you should consider newer model toilets as they will be more efficient in conserving water and utility costs.
A cracked toilet tank or bowl can mysteriously develop anytime and start leaking. Common reasons toilets crack include temperature changes, impact damage, or the crack may have occurred when the toilet was manufactured.
One of the most used fixtures in your home, the toilet, on average has a lifespan of 10-15 years. For being used as often as it is, the toilet can withstand a lot. Unfortunately, there will come a time when you need to replace your toilet.
If your toilet is cracked, leaking, or just outdated, it may be time to replace the toilet tank. Toilet tanks are sold separately from the bowls, so you can get any tank that fits onto your model of toilet.
Epoxy sealer can be found at Home Depot for just a few bucks. Any porcelain sealer can also work. Be sure to check with plumbing experts to see if the specific branded sealer is good choice. Once you find the sealer, you'll be ready to repair the crack.
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.
There really is no way to completely eradicate cracks made inside a toilet tank lid; replacing the tank lid is the only permanent solution. However, it is possible to repair the toilet tank, with a little muscle and some adhesives, so that it can still be useful.