Reasons for a Wobbly Toilet
Waxes, whether organic or synthetic, deteriorate over time. This issue is common with older toilets.
Out of all the things a toilet could or is supposed to be doing, rocking back and forth isn't one of them. Bathrooms are often associated with various leaks, so homeowners rarely pay them any mind if the toilet moves without any leakage. However, even slight shifts might be detrimental in the long run.
Not only does a rocking toilet feel unsettling, but it could lead to sewage leaks which are undoubtedly everyone's worst bathroom-related nightmare. This article explores the potential causes of a wobbly toilet, helping homeowners seek help immediately to prevent further damage.
Poor toilet installation
New homes or renovated bathrooms are more likely to have improperly installed toilets. Yet, determining whether a toilet has been installed incorrectly is often harder than spotting a damaged flange or uneven flooring. If homeowners can't figure out the cause of a wobbly toilet, their best bet is to call a professional plumber to unravel the issue and fix it immediately.
Cracks or unevenness in the flooring
Uneven flooring can be at the root of a rocking toilet in new homes. Older floors can also develop warps and cracks over time. In such cases, one dipping tile may destabilize a toilet, potentially leading to leakage. Ironically, a leaking toilet can be the very cause of uneven flooring. Water damages the floor and subfloor, leading to unlevel surfaces. This way, the two issues compound each other.
Damaged flange
A flange keeps the toilet secured to the floor and prevents the water from escaping the pipes. The toilet bowl sits on top of the flange. If the flange gets damaged, water leaks are practically inevitable.
Checking the flange requires the removal of the entire toilet. To prevent further damage, homeowners should contact a professional service to remove the toilet.
Loose toilet pipes
The pipe connected to the flange could be loose and leak water into the flooring. This situation is extremely alarming as it can cause the entire floor to collapse. If you suspect pipe damage, contacting a plumber is a must.
Broken or loose flange bolts
The problem might be with the flange bolts if it's not the flange itself. These steel fasteners can become loose with years and lead to the toilet rocking. Solving this problem requires some tightening, but if the bolts are damaged, you'll need to replace them.
Decaying wax ring
Waxes, whether organic or synthetic, deteriorate over time. This issue is common with older toilets. The wax becomes thinner and loses its shape, becoming less capable of preventing water leaks and toilet seepage. Decaying wax can also create an unstable base and cause the toilet to move.
No more wobbly toilets!
Fixing a wobbly toilet can be as simple as inserting shims into the gaps and caulking. Still, the majority of situations require professional plumbing services. It's best to call a plumber for professional assessment before attempting a DIY toilet fix, as amateur work might do more harm than good.
If you need a licensed, bonded, insured plumber for your Phoenix area leak or your next plumbing project, call MNS Plumbing today at 602-362-4524.
