Common Causes of a Leaky Toilet

Common Causes of a Leaky ToiletIf you have noticed water pooling at the base of your toilet, you are not alone. Plenty of homeowners run into a leaky toilet at some point, and many people ignore it for a while. Although a minor leak might not seem like a significant concern, your leaky toilet should receive some TLC from an experienced professional. If you see water around the base of your toilet, have the experts at Metcalf Plumbing look for these common issues that can lead to a leaky toilet.

Your Leaky Toilet can be Caused by Broken Wax Ring

Every toilet has a wax ring around its base. This ring helps seal the connection between your toilet and the drain line in the floor. If the wax ring has become dislodged, loose, or otherwise defective, your plumber will have to remove the old ring and install new wax for a water-tight seal. For many leaky toilets, this fix is enough to get the job done. However, replacing your toilet's wax ring is a significant undertaking that only a trusted plumbing professional should attempt. DIY-loving homeowners, leave this one to the pros!

Loose Tee-Bolts May be the Culprit

Another potential cause of your leaky toilet may be tee-bolts and nuts at your unit's base. Two plastic caps typically cover these bolts. If the tee-bolts are loose, this can compromise the toilet's connection to the drain in the floor. Sometimes tightening these bolts is all that is needed, though if your toilet is still leaking, another issue is likely to blame.

A Clogged Drain Line can Contribute to Issues

Finally, you may have a leaky toilet due to a good, old-fashioned clog. While there are other common symptoms of a drain line clog, this problem can put pressure on the wax seal and cause a leak at the base. Look for other signs of a drain line clog, such as frequent clogging, a slow-draining toilet bowl, and water and waste that just won't flush. Regardless of your bathroom's specific problems, the team at Metcalf Plumbing is standing by to restore your home's plumbing to its proper function.

Experience the Metcalf Plumbing Difference

Metcalf Plumbing is a customer-focused plumbing contractor serving residential and commercial clients throughout the Catonsville, Ellicott City and surrounding areas. From water heater installation, sump pump installation and repair to water and sewer line replacement, Metcalf Plumbing is a trusted resource to call on when you need help with your plumbing services. We are not commission-based and we provide honest, upfront costs with a thorough inspection of your system and suggested next steps. Our trained and courteous technicians are standing by to provide quality comfort at competitive prices. You can call us at 410-242-311 and don't forget to follow us on Facebook and Twitter!

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Best Practices to Avoid a Garbage Disposal Clog