A wobbling bathroom can be frustrating and dangerous for any household. This can lead to a wobbling toilet that is not only annoying, but also leads to plumbing problems, such as leaks and damaged floors.
This blog will give you a complete guide to fixing a wobbling commode, with new ideas and tips for a stable, secure bathroom fixture.
Identifying Cause
To fix a toilet that wobbles, you must first identify the cause. The most common cause of a wobbling toilet is an uneven floor. However, other factors like loose bolts, damaged flanges or deteriorated ring wax could also be to blame. It is important to inspect the toilet thoroughly and identify the root cause of the wobbling before making any repairs.
Shimming to Stability
If the wobbling happens because of an uneven flooring, shimming may be a simple and effective solution. Turn off the water supply, and flush the toilet. Place shims – small pieces of material or wedges – under the toilet’s base to level it. Use rubber or vinyl shims as they will prevent water damage. They also help to avoid excessively compressing the flooring. The shims should be added and adjusted gradually until the toilet rests firmly without any wobbling on the floor.
Tightening Loose Bolts
Loose screws can also cause the toilet to wobble. Make sure the mounting bolts are tightened. Tighten the mounting bolts using an adjustable wrench and pliers. Be careful not to over-tighten, as this could crack the toilet base. If the bolts have rusted, or are damaged, you may want to replace them with new ones. This will ensure a tight fit.
Repairing Damaged Flanges
A damaged flange or a broken flange could cause a wobble in a toilet. The flange is the circular fitting that connects your toilet to the drain pipe beneath the floor. If the flange has been cracked or broken, the toilet will not have a stable foundation. If the flange is damaged, you may want to consult a professional plumber who can repair or replace it. They have the specialized tools and expertise to ensure that the installation is done correctly and securely.
Upgrade to a Stronger Base
Some toilets wobble despite efforts to level or stabilize them. In this case, you may want to upgrade to a toilet base that is more durable. Look for models designed with a wider base, or those that are specifically designed to increase stability. These toilets are often equipped with reinforced bases or extra support structures which can reduce wobbling.
Regular Maintenance and Inspection
Prevention is better than cure. Regular maintenance can help you identify and fix wobbling issues at an early stage. Regularly inspect the bolts and the flange of the toilet and look for signs that it is damaged or worn. Cleaning and tightening the bolts on a regular basis can help to maintain a stable and wobbling-free toilet.
Conclusion
A wobbling commode is not just an inconvenience, but it can also lead to more serious plumbing problems. By identifying the problem, tightening loose nuts, repairing damaged flanges and performing regular maintenance you can fix your wobbling toilet.
Take the necessary measures to restore stability and maintain an effective and safe bathroom environment.