Is there standing water in the bathroom near the Toilet? Do not ignore this problem! The water from the toilet bowl may be leaking from its base. It may smell like sewage. If your toilet is left unattended, the water will continue to leak, causing damage to the flooring and ceiling below.

Toilet leaking is a serious problem, especially if water is dripping onto the floor directly from the toilet base. This can cause disruption to your work schedule and could lead to serious damage to your bathroom’s tile and flooring. Most cases are straightforward and do not require the help of a plumber. Most repairs are inexpensive and can be completed in under an hour. How do you fix a leaky toilet?

How to Fix Toilet Base Leaks: Common Causes

Condensation on the Floor

The toilet contains water so it is reasonable to suppose that the bathroom is leaking from its interior. In many cases, however, this is not always the case. You might find moisture-laden air accumulating around the tank or toilet bowl. Drops or moisture may form on the toilet bowl or tank and run down to the floor. This can be caused either by a running toilet or a difference in temperature between the tank’s water and the room.

Bathroom condensation can be reduced or directed by installing a drip tray under the tank, heating the bathroom, or adding an exhaust fan. You should also address the problem if you have a running toilet.

Loose Tee Bolts

Is your toilet leaking? Is it moving when you place your hand on it? You might have loose teebolts. The toilet may be loosely anchored to its floor if it continues leaking at the base even after flushing.

You may find two teebolts at the bottom of the toilet that are hidden by covers. If the wax ring beneath these bolts doesn’t form a water-tight seal, the toilet can leak. This issue can be solved by tightening the bolts holding the toilet to a floor. Use a flathead screwdriver or putty knife to take off the caps.

You should tighten the bolts one at a time. Alternating between the left- and right bolts. The toilet foundation could crack if you tighten them too much. You might need to replace bolts that spin when you tighten them.

Worn Wax Ring

If the toilet’s bottom is still wet after you’ve checked for dampness or tightened the bolts, it’s time for you to replace the wax seal. You can’t do much if the wax seal is broken other than to replace it. The good news about wax rings is their reasonable price. You will have to remove the toilet in order to replace it. It is not an easy task. To properly install a wax ring seal, we recommend calling a local Glendale, CA Plumber if you’re unsure.

If you don’t feel like it, call a plumber. You can also use these do the job yourself instructions.

  • You may find a replacement wax band in a local home improvement shop.
  • To drain the tank, shut off the water supply at the toilet and flush it. Blot any remaining water in your tank or bowl with a towel.
  • After unscrewing the bolts, lift the toilet off the floor and place it on its back.
  • Removing the wax ring from the base of the toilet and the flange is enough to replace it. If they have become rusty, you can also replace the toilet teebolts.
  • Reinstall the toilet in its original position. Continue tightening the tee bolts on alternate sides, until they are securely in place.
  • Check for leaks by reconnecting the water supply.
  • You can check the problem after a few days. Caulk should be placed around the base of the toilet to stop water or spills from getting under it, causing mold and unpleasant odors.