Do you have a wobbly porcelain throne? You know, a toilet that would not just stay steady while you do your business? Do not worry, you are not alone. Wobbly toilets are a common household annoyance. We come across them quite often while on many of our inspection visits. So, what makes a wobbly toilet such a big deal? What are the dangers and most importantly how can your DIY superpowers save the day? These and more would be discussed on this episode of #TheyAskYou Answer!
While there may be no specific data on how a wobbly toilet directly impacts home value in America, (if you do get your hands on such data, please shoot us an email) it can create issues that potentially lower a home’s worth and present safety hazards. Let us highlight some of the impacts of a wobbly toilet.
Impacts of a wobbly toilet
1. Negative Impressions During Home Inspections:
A wobbly toilet signals potential plumbing problems, raising red flags for buyers and home inspectors. It can lead to further inspection costs and repair negotiations, potentially reducing the final sale price.
2. Leak Risks and Water Damage:
A loose toilet can compromise the wax seal, causing leaks that seep into the subfloor, walls, or ceilings. Undetected leaks can cause extensive water damage, mold growth, and costly repairs, significantly impacting a home’s value and livability.
3. Health and Safety Concerns:
A wobbly toilet can rock or shift unexpectedly, posing a fall risk, especially for children, elderly individuals, or those with mobility challenges. Leaks can create unsanitary conditions and attract pests, potentially harming indoor air quality and health.
4. Nuisance and Discomfort:
A wobbly toilet can be unpleasant to use and create embarrassing noises, negatively affecting daily life, and reducing a home’s overall appeal.
Read Also: Unveiling the Magic of Sewer Camera Inspections
How to fix a wobbly toilet
So now that we have highlighted some of the obvious negative impacts of a wobbly toilet, what can you do to fix it? That is where the fun begins. Grab your toolkit and get ready to rock ‘n’ roll… or rather, not rock ‘n’ roll anymore! ️Here is your step-by-step guide to restoring peace and stability to your bathroom:
Step 1. Gather Your Weapons:
To successfully carry out this DIY exercise, you would need the following:
- Plunger (just in case things get messy)
- Adjustable wrench
- Shims – small wedges that go between the toilet and floor to balance and steady the toilet (plastic or wood, thin enough to fit under the toilet base)
- Caulk (waterproof, to seal the base)
- Bucket and sponge (for cleanup)
- Towel (to protect your floor)
Step 2. Shut Off the Water Supply:
Except you want to turn your minor discomfort into a world of mess, it is important to shut off the water supply first before you start having a crack at it. Locate the shut-off valve behind the toilet and turn it clockwise to stop the flow. Flush the toilet to drain the tank and bowl. Use a sponge to soak up any remaining water.
Step 3. Inspect and Tighten:
Time to put those adjustable wrenches to work. Check the two bolts at the base of the toilet that secure it to the floor. Use your wrench to tighten them snugly, alternating between each side. Pro tip though; do not overtighten, or you could crack the porcelain!
Most times this fixes it, but in the situation where it does not, move to step 3.
Step 4. Shim It Up:
If tightening the bolts does not do the trick, it is shim time! This involves gently rocking the toilet to identify uneven spots. Place your shims under those areas, making sure they are level and snug. This should balance the wobble. Want to prove just how much of a DIY pro you are? Take it a step further by using a level to ensure accuracy.
In the rare event the shim does not work to bring balance to your “toiletverse,” you might need a new wax ring. To replace the wax ring, keep the water turned off, remove the entire toilet, swap out the old wax ring for a new one, and replace toilet and everything back where it was.
Step 5. Seal the Deal:
Once the toilet is stable, apply a bead of caulk around the base to create a watertight seal. This prevents leaks and keeps things nice and tidy.
Step 6. Turn the Water Back on and Test:
Slowly turn the water valve back on. Check for leaks around the base and tank. Flush the toilet a few times to ensure everything is working smoothly. At this point, a victory dance is optional!
Congratulations, you have conquered the wobbly toilet! Now sit back, relax, and enjoy your newfound throne stability. From here on, it should be smooth sailing! If you are not comfortable with DIY, do not hesitate to call a professional plumber for assistance.
Conclusion
It may come across as something that you could easily overlook, but a toilet is also a major part of the home. Therefore, address wobbly toilets promptly! Fix loose toilets as soon as possible to prevent further issues and protect your home’s value.
It is equally important to disclose issues during home sales. Be transparent about any known plumbing problems to avoid surprises and maintain trust with potential buyers. Finally, before you enter a sinkhole of plumbing issues, consider professional inspections. If you are unsure about the extent of plumbing issues, consult a qualified plumber for a thorough assessment and repairs.
With this you should be able to fix that wobbly toilet and take care of business a bit more steadily.
