If you have water leaking from under the toilet onto your bathroom floor or notice a sulfur smell coming from your bathroom, you may need to replace the toilet seal. Learn when to replace a toilet seal and the options for replacing one below.
Function of a Toilet Seal
A toilet seal covers the base of the toilet bowl, right where the bowl meets the floor. It should be watertight, and it should be soft enough that it won’t damage the floor. There are a few different types of toilet seal, but all of them do the same thing. It will seal off the toilet from the rest of the room, so odors and debris go where they’re supposed to. Toilet seals prevent water from leaking out and damaging floors and walls.
Toilet Seal Replacement
Toilet seals are durable, but they will wear out over time, especially if your toilet bowl is older. It is recommended they be replaced every three to five years. If you notice your toilet seal has started to loosen from the base of the toilet or on the floor, you should replace it. A torn or loose toilet seal will leak water from the tank and go down the wall or under the floor. If it gets worse before you replace it, water may even come up onto the floor.
How to Replace a Toilet Seal
If you decide your toilet seal needs replacing, follow these steps to ensure proper installation:
- Purchase a seal that is the proper size for your toilet.
- Turn off the water supply to the toilet, and make sure the bowl is empty.
- Place a towel at the base of the toilet to protect the flooring.
- Use a putty knife or screwdriver, and remove the old seal, cutting it with a utility knife if necessary.
- Read the instructions carefully and install as directed.
- Once in place, turn the water back on.
- Test that the toilet is working properly.
Another Option for Toilet Seal Replacement
Replacing a toilet seal is not the most difficult task, but it’s not necessarily easy. If you don’t want to brave it yourself, contact Efficient Plumbing Services, and we can take care of it for you.