SERVPRO Tips: Leaky Toilet

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

What's Really Going on with My Leaky Toilet?

Sometimes a small leak is manageable if the source of the leak is confirmed, right? 

Give this a try.

Check the washers between the bowl and tank, firstly. They may have failed. To do this, we would need to shut off the supply valve and empty the tank with a flush. Then remove the nuts, bolts, and washers from the underside of the tank. Finally, lift the tank to position it on its side, and see if the washers need replacing.

If the washers check out okay, let's check something else.

Faulty fasteners securing the fill valve and ballcock to the bottom of the tank could be the corporate. However, before you replacing those parts, first try simply tightening the nuts and bolts holding them in place. That often solves the problem, and it's cost friendly—which we like!

If the leak is at the base of the tank, that changes things.

Chances are the wax ring that seals the toilet to the floor has failed. Replacing the wax ring is a much bigger job, since it involves removing the entire toilet from its base. If you decide to replace the wax ring yourself—preferably with a friend to help with the lifting—take the extra step to also replace any bolts that show signs of corrosion. This will pay off in the long run. And, once you have the toilet back in place, don’t forget to add a bead of caulk around the base.

If you feel that a job such as this is more than you can handle, your SERVPRO of Centreville, Marion, and Selma friends have your back.

We're here for you! (205) 926-6010