How to Fix a Wobbly Toilet
If your toilet is wobbly but not leaking, this quick plumbing repair fix. Toilets typically rock because they are not sitting flush on the floor. Beneath the toilet base is a round flange that connects the toilet to the main drain pipe. If the flange is higher than the flooring, the toilet will be raised slightly, which allows it to rock.
Check the Bolts First
Sometimes a rocking toilet can be easily fixed by simply tightening the two flange bolts at the base of the toilet. Just remember to do this carefully, as tightening the bolts too much will crack the porcelain of the toilet, which cannot be repaired. Check the flange bolt using either a pair of pliers or a small wrench. Should the bolt be loose, tighten it slowly until it is snug. Check the other bolt and make sure that too is equally as snug, then test the toilet for any rocking motion. If it still rocks, you will need to shim the base.
Look for Leaks
Check to make sure the toilet is not leaking. Check carefully for any water around the base, when there is none present, you can do the repair. However, when there are signs of leaking around the base, it means that the wax ring that seals the toilet horn to the flange is old and compressed. Should this prove to be the case, you will need to remove the toilet and replace the ring.
Locate the Gaps
Check the base of the toilet to see if there are any gaps between it and the floor. It may help if you rock the toilet from side to side. Even a small space could cause the rocking. If the gaps are too small, slide a shim under the base to see how far it goes.
For information about the services and products JP & DC LLC has to offer, please do not hesitate to dial this number (240) 232-8308 if you would like to make an appointment to discuss a plumbing repair and live in the Silver Spring, MD area.