Replacing a Leaky Toilet

10/11/2019 (Permalink)

Determine whether toilet repair or replacement is the appropriate response to leakage.

The prospect of replacing a leaking toilet need not strike fear into the heart of a homeowner nor necessarily require calling in a specialist in or near Asheville, NC to get the job done right. With a toilet tutorial, a few simple tools and a confident mindset, you can set things right.

Confirming the Need for Replacement

Determine whether toilet repair or replacement is the appropriate response to leakage. If damage to the bowl or tank is not the issue, check the shutoff valve and supply tube. A sweaty bowl can also give the appearance of a leaking toilet. Gently tighten the closet bolts that join the toilet to the floor and recheck for seepage. Rule out the relatively simple fixes.

Mastering the Steps of Installation

A methodical approach makes swapping out an old toilet for a new model a manageable task. Preview these steps and gather the necessary tools.

1. Completely close the shutoff valve.
2. Take the lid off the tank and flush the toilet, holding it down to empty the tank. Soak up any remaining water.
3. Disconnect the water supply tube.
4. Remove the caps from the closet bolts and remove the nuts.
5. Grip the bowl and move it from side to side to break the wax seal. Remove the toilet. Scrape the closet flange in the floor to remove any residue. Inspect the flange and repair or replace it if there is damage.
6. Replace the wax seal and ensure that it is perfectly centered.
7. Install a flexible supply tube in the appropriate length.
8. Apply pipe-joint compound to both ends of the supply tube fittings and tighten one end to the fill-valve shank.
9. Firmly push the toilet into place, compressing the wax seal.
10. Check placement, and then gradually tighten the closet bolts gently to avoid cracks.
11. Attach the water supply tube to the shutoff valve and then open it.

Monitor the fit not only after a few test flushes, but also for a few days afterward, tightening the nuts as needed. Successful completion of these steps will put to rest the inconvenience of a leaking toilet. Visit http://www.SERVPROashevilleeast.com for more information on water damage.