Most repairs are affordable and can be completed in just a half-hour.
But you must act fast to prevent water damage from ruining the flooring and structural wood.
Here’s why yourtoilet might leakat the base and how to fix it.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
In many cases, though, it’s just the opposite.
Moisture-laden air might condense on the toilet bowl or tank’s outer surface.
Moisture forms water droplets that run down the bowl or tank and collect on the floor.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
Tip
A toilet may have water around its base if it has a loose or cracked flange.
This issue usually requires professional repair.
Toilet Is Loosely Attached
Toilets are attached to the floor with bolts.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
Sometimes, these bolts loosen over time.
Wax toilet seals can harden or loosen over time, allowing water to leak from the toilet base.
Or the original wax seal may have been inadequate in the first place.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
If the flange is cracked or broken, you will likely need to call a professional to repair it.
Use gloves when working with toilets.
When finished, thoroughly clean up the work area with a disinfecting solution.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
If a constantly running toilet is part of the problem, that should also be repaired.
Tighten Floor Connection Bolts
Over time, bolts can loosen, causingtoilets to rock at the base.
Tightening these bolts can sometimes stop water from leaking around the toilet base.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
Warning
Tighten the nuts gently.
Overtightening the nuts cancrack the porcelain base, rendering the toilet unusable.
The only solution to a cracked toilet is toreplace it.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
Tighten a Loose Toilet Tank
Tightening the bolts can sometimes improve the attachment between the two pieces.
If the gasket is faulty, it can be replaced with a new gasket.
If the bolts have rusted, they may not tighten quickly and need replacement.
Fix leaks immediately since speedy care can save you from headaches or a costly expense.
When to Call a Professional
Call a plumberif you have difficulty removing and moving a toilet.
Leaking toilets usually need their nuts and bolts tightened or a faulty seal replaced.
A leaking toilet is an emergency.
Several things can cause a leaking toilet.
Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Home.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
How much does a toilet repair cost?HomeAdvisor.
