How to Fix Leaky Toilet Bowls

Leaking toilets can create a tremendous amount of damage if left unfixed. Fortunately, there is not a lot of skill involved in repairing this common household problem. To save your money and do it yourself rather than call the plumber, the simple steps below will have you feeling like a million bucks in no time.

Things You'll Need

• Wrench
• Screwdriver
• Replacement for rotted sub floor or bathroom floor
• Wax ring
• Water supply line

Instructions

Move the Toilet

1. Turn off the water supply. The valve is on the floor behind the toilet.

2. Flush the toilet to dispose of the water in the toilet tank. This makes it less messy and much lighter to move.

3. Remove the plastic caps covering the screws on either side of the toilet bowl.

4. Disconnect water supply tube.

5. Unscrew the hex bolts and gently lift toilet bowl straight up. Lift from the bowl, not the tank.

6. Scrape wax seal ring from the flange and discard.

Inspect the Floor for Water Damage

1. Clean up any loose debris from surface area.

2. Inspect the floor and sub-floor for water damage.

3. Check questionable damage created by the leaking toilet bowl by gently digging with a screwdriver. If surface flakes or splinters, it needs to be replaced before continuing.

Repair the Leaking Toilet Bowl

1. Purchase a new wax ring.

2. Center the new wax ring on top of the existing flange.

3. Determine if you need to replace the water supply tube that goes to the toilet bowl. If so, this is the time to install that tubing.

4. Gently place toilet back into position. Line up screws and press firmly into place.

5. Replace hex bolts and tighten. If necessary, trip excess screws with a hack saw.

6. Reattach water supply tube.

7. Turn on water supply. Allow the tank to fill and then flush to check for leaks.