A: Improper installation, using the wrong thickness, or high flanges lifting the toilet off the floor can cause failure. Movement of the toilet can also break the seal. How can I tell if my toilet wax ring is failing? Signs include water leaks around the base, a wobbly toilet, and unpleasant odors.
Once installed, a wax seal should last the life of the toilet, 20 or 30 years, without needing to be changed. There are times, though, when the wax ring needs to be replaced, such as when your toilet begins to leak around the base or starts rocking.
The main thing is to make sure that your flange is still good. Usually the only reason a wax ring fails is because the flange is broken or not submitted correctly and that causes the toilet to move which causes the wax to fail.
Water Leaking: If you notice water pooling around the base of the toilet, it could indicate a failing wax ring. This is often the most obvious sign. Unpleasant Odors: A wax ring that has deteriorated can allow sewage gases to escape, leading to foul odors near the toilet.
Yes, plunging the toilet too aggressively can potentially break the wax ring seal, leading to leaks or improper sealing of the toilet against the floor. It's important to use gentle and controlled plunging motions to avoid damaging the seal.
An improperly installed wax ring may leak. Perhaps the installer used a ring that wasn't thick enough, or perhaps the flange is high enough to lift the toilet off the floor and make it rock. Once water begins seeping through a compromised wax ring, it won't stop.
One common question people ask is, “Can plunging make a clog worse?” The short answer is yes, but only if you're not using toilet plungers correctly. Using too much force or plunging too vigorously can push the clog further down the drain, making it harder to remove.
Wax-free Toilet Seals: The New Kid on the Block
For plumbers interested in a mess-free option, wax-free toilet seals check this box. These seals affix to the toilet using a strong adhesive. There's no wrangling the ring in into place. It's a straightforward method of keeping your toilet base leak free.
Reasons to Caulk Around a Toilet
Moisture Prevention: Without caulk around the toilet base, external water can seep under the toilet, leading to floor and subfloor damage over time. This is especially important in bathrooms with wooden floors, as prolonged exposure to moisture can lead to rot and structural issues.
Again, leaky water is a telltale and common sign of a bad wax ring. If you do not regularly see moisture or puddling water under your toilet, you may be fine. Leaks can, however, happen where you do not see them, under the finished floor and into the subfloor.
$90-$120 is a good ballpark.
If you are having other plumbing work done, they might do it cheaper, and if they have a large travel fee, you may pay closer to $150. Unless there is a problem, it should take them under a half hour, whereas, it might take a novice 1.5-2 hours.
Position the new toilet wax ring on top of the toilet flange, ensuring it is centered. Want to know more about choosing the correct wax ring size, crucial installation tips, and other frequently asked questions? Check out our Oatey 101: Wax Rings blog.
If your toilet feels unstable, like if it rocks when you use it, that will lead to a wax ring problem. Most wax rings have no memory, meaning once it's compressed, it won't go back to its original shape. When a toilet moves, it breaks the wax seal, and the only way to fix it is to pull the toilet and replace the wax.
You may be tempted to think that doubling the rings equates to a stronger, more stable connection, but that thinking couldn't be more mistaken. Going down that path will likely result in costly consequences such as leaks, odors, and repairs.
I found after trying both Goo-Gone and Dawn dish soap, that a very simple way to remove wax off of the linoleum was to use good, old-fashioned baking soda. I just sprinkled a generous amount on the floor, ran the plastic side of a sponge over it, and it came right off. Here's my new toilet by Kohler.
Caulk keeps your toilet secure the floor, and avoids any chance of injury or toilet malfunctioning. It's actually required by the International Plumbing Code to caulk a toilet to the floor, and now knowing the reasoning behind it, why would you not want to?
Without caulk, it's easier for water from a leak to seep out onto the floor. The problem is visible, so you're more likely to spot it right away and get prompt repairs. However, with caulk, water from a small leak can get trapped underneath, allowing the problem to compound before someone finds the issue.
The International Plumbing Code requires caulk around the base of a toilet. You must use 100% silicone caulk where fixtures meet the wall or floor. Here are a few of the primary reasons it's required, and you should take the time to properly seal toilets above and beyond basic code requirements.
But sometimes wax rings can dry out, crumble, and fail prematurely. When that happens, they need to be replaced. Sign Up for the Royal Flush newsletter today! The telltale sign of wax ring failure is water leaking out from around the base of the toilet.
If you're not sure what size wax ring to buy, measure the opening on the bottom of your toilet bowl.
One of the strongest substances for unclogging a toilet is a commercial drain cleaner specifically designed for toilet clogs. These cleaners typically contain powerful chemicals that dissolve organic matter and stubborn blockages.
Stop Flushing!
This can create a much bigger (and must smellier) mess. You should never flush a clogged toilet more than once. Instead, take the lid off the back of the toilet and close the flapper. This will prevent any more water from running into the toilet bowl while you're working.
A vigorous plunge could send water flying up out of the toilet bowl. The best way to avoid this messy scenario is to start with a gentle plunge. Slowly push the plunger down, allowing the air to escape from the cup. Once the plunger is fully submerged, give it a few firm pumps.