Skip to content
Close

How to Fix Toilet Wax Seal

Man closing toilet seat in bathroom closeup

A toilet wax seal works as a barrier between the toilet base and the waste pipe flange on the bathroom floor. 

 

It helps create a hygienic and waterproof seal, preventing sewage water and odor leaks. But, over time, wear and tear, shifting of the toilet, or aging of the wax can lead to deterioration, requiring fixing or replacing the wax seal. 

 

However, replacing a toilet wax seal might not be the most glamorous bathroom maintenance task because it requires unbolting the toilet from the floor, replacing the seal, and then reinstalling the toilet in its original position.

 

Replacing a toilet wax seal is an essential task for creating a wellness oasis by preventing leaks and odors, ultimately improving bathroom safety. 

 

Continue reading our article about how to replace a wax ring on a toilet for simple and easy instructions to make this task manageable and help you maintain a well-functioning bathroom for years to come.

Tools and materials needed to replace toilet wax seal

To perform the replacement, you’ll need some common tools and materials: 

  • Adjustable wrenches 

  • Toilet Mounting Bolts

  • Water Supply Line

  • Mini Hacksaw

  • Bucket/Sponge

  • Putty knife

  • Degreaser spray

  • Toilet wax ring kit

Replacing Wax Seal on Toilet

The replacement of the toilet wax seal consists of two different processes performed in the following order: 

  1. Removing the toilet 

  2. Replacing the wax seal

  3. Reinstalling the toilet

Removing the toilet 

  1. Turn off the toilet's water supply by locating the water fill valve and turning it clockwise. The water supply valve is located either behind the toilet or in the crawl space or basement space directly beneath the toilet. 

  1. Flush the toilet to drain water from the tank and bowl as much as possible. Then, remove the lid of the toilet tank and put it in a safe place away from your working area. 

  1. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen and disconnect the compression nut on the water supply line under the toilet tank.

  1. Remove the caps covering the bolts at the base, then unscrew and remove the nuts by turning them counterclockwise. 

  1. Remove any washers as well. If the bolt spins as you turn the nut, hold the bolt with a pair of pliers using your non-dominant hand

  1. Place the nuts, washers, and caps where you will be able to find them when the time comes to put the toilet back in place.

  1. Gently rock the toilet back and forth to break the wax seal between the toilet and the floor.

  1. Lift the toilet straight up to detach it from the floor, taking care not to damage the flange.

Replacing the wax seal on toilet 

  1. Scrape off the old/remaining wax seal or debris from the flange on the floor by using a putty knife to ensure a clean surface for the new seal.

  1. Check the base of the toilet for any cracks or damage that may affect the seal's effectiveness

  1. Place the new wax seal evenly on the flange, ensuring it sits securely and covers the flange opening completely. 

  1. Thoroughly clean the area around the flange and floor to prepare for toilet reinstallation.

Reinstalling the toilet 

 

  1. Carefully lower the toilet back on top of the flange, aligning the bolts with the holes in the base of the toilet as guides for placement. The toilet tank should be parallel to the wall behind it.

  1. Apply gentle pressure to the toilet, pressing it down firmly to compress the wax seal and create a tight seal.

  1. Insert and hand-tighten the bolts through the base of the toilet and into the flange to secure the toilet in place. 

  1. Use a wrench to alternately tighten the bolts, ensuring even pressure and preventing the toilet from rocking

  1. Reattach the water supply line to the tank's bottom and turn on the shut-off valve to restore water flow.

  1. Flush the toilet and check around the base for any signs of leaks. Tighten bolts if necessary to stop any leaks.

FAQs

How often should I replace my toilet wax seal?

The toilet wax seal is designed to last 30 or more years, often as long as the toilet itself. However, it is advisable to replace the seal every 5 to 10 years or when signs of leakage, foul odors, or toilet instability occur.

Is there a difference between wax rings and wax seals for toilets?

No, wax rings and wax seals are the same thing. They create a watertight seal between the toilet and the flange.

Can a faulty wax seal cause damage to my bathroom flooring?

Yes, a faulty wax seal can lead to water damage, mold growth, and structural issues in your bathroom flooring if it is not promptly replaced.