Tips To Tame a Leaky Toilet

6/22/2018 (Permalink)

Repairing a leaking toilet may seem easy, but water damage caused by the leak can be more extensive.

As a homeowner in Cary, NC, nothing can be more frustrating than a leaking toilet. Finding water at the base of your toilet every time you flush is no laughing matter. Left unrepaired, even the smallest leak can lead to water damage.

Tighten the Bolts

The plumbing connecting your toilet to the floor is the most likely cause of the leak. This consists of a metal flange and a wax seal pressed together by bolts at the toilet’s base. Tightening those bolts may fix the seal and stop your bathroom leak. Alternate between each bolt until your toilet is again firmly secured to the floor, being careful not to overtighten and cause damage to the fixture.

Replace the Seal

If there is still water seeping from the base, then the wax seal or metal flange might be at fault. You can contact a plumber to handle the repair or attempt to fix the leaking toilet yourself following these steps:

1. Turn off the water running to your toilet, remove the tank’s water supply, and flush to drain the tank and bowl.
2. Remove bolts and lift the unit by the bowl, setting it aside, and look for water damage.
3. Scrape away the old wax seal, checking the flange for cracks or breakage.
4. Install a new wax seal (and metal strap if needed) and lower the toilet back into position.
5. Tighten the bolts firmly to ensure a good seal, and reattach the water supply.

Check the Flange

While replacing the wax seal, see if the metal flange is damaged; if that is the case, it needs replacement. Place a rag into the sewer pipe to prevent gases from entering your home, and remove the old flange. Bring it with you when purchasing a new one to ensure it’s the proper size and type for your toilet. Remember to remove the rag before replacing the bowl.

Repairing a leaking toilet may seem easy, but water damage caused by the leak can be more extensive. Call a local professional in Cary, NC, to assess the situation and prevent further, more costly damage down the road. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROcarymorrisvilleapex.com/.