Step 1: Identify the Cause of the Rocking
Before you can fix a rocking toilet, you need to figure out what’s causing it to move. There are a few common reasons why a toilet might rock, including:
Worn out Bolts
Over time, the bolts that hold your toilet to the floor can become worn out or loose, causing the toilet to move around. You can check the bolts by gently wiggling the toilet back and forth. If it moves, the bolts might be the problem.
Uneven Floor
If your bathroom floor is uneven, it can cause your toilet to rock. You can check the floor by placing a level on top of the toilet bowl. If the floor is uneven, you may need to use shims to level the toilet.
Worn Wax Ring
The wax ring that seals your toilet to the drain pipe can wear out over time, causing the toilet to move around. You can check the wax ring by removing the toilet and inspecting the ring. If it’s worn out, you’ll need to replace it.
Step 2: Gather Your Tools
Once you’ve identified the cause of the problem, you’ll need to gather your tools before you can start fixing the toilet. Here’s what you’ll need: – Adjustable wrench – Screwdriver – Level – Shims (if necessary) – New bolts and wax ring (if necessary)
Step 3: Tighten the Bolts
If the bolts are the cause of the rocking toilet, you’ll need to tighten them. Use an adjustable wrench to tighten each bolt, making sure they’re snug but not over-tightened. Be careful not to crack the toilet bowl by using too much force.
Step 4: Level the Toilet
If the floor is uneven, you’ll need to use shims to level the toilet. Place shims under the low side of the toilet until it’s level. Use a level to check the toilet in both directions to ensure it’s completely level.
Step 5: Replace the Wax Ring
If the wax ring is worn out, you’ll need to replace it. Start by turning off the water supply to the toilet and flushing it to remove as much water as possible. Remove the bolts that hold the toilet to the floor and carefully lift the toilet off the drain pipe. Scrape off any remaining wax from the bottom of the toilet and the top of the drain pipe. Place the new wax ring on top of the drain pipe and carefully lower the toilet onto the ring, making sure it’s centered. Reinstall the bolts and tighten them until they’re snug.
FAQs
Q: Can a rocking toilet cause leaks?
A: Yes, a rocking toilet can cause leaks if the wax ring becomes damaged or if the toilet cracks.
Q: Can I fix a rocking toilet myself?
A: Yes, you can fix a rocking toilet yourself with the right tools and some basic DIY knowledge.
Q: How long does it take to fix a rocking toilet?
A: The time it takes to fix a rocking toilet depends on the cause of the problem. Tightening bolts or using shims can be done in a few minutes, while replacing a wax ring can take an hour or more.
Conclusion
A rocking toilet can be a frustrating problem, but it’s one that you can easily fix yourself. By identifying the cause of the problem and following the steps outlined in this article, you can keep your toilet steady and prevent leaks and damage to your bathroom floor.