What Is The Cause Of A Leaking Toilet Base?

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Written By Trisha

Hi, I’m Trisha McNamara, a contributor at The HomeTrotters.

Do you notice water accumulating over your toilet when you clean it? Or maybe you spot standing water beside your toilet that appears out of nowhere. It may break down due to defects in the tank, the bowl, the water supply line, or the toilet leaking from the bottom.

Homeowners rarely maintain a regular check on the toilet installations in the building, so only a few individuals understand how the unit operates. Meanwhile, toilet problems can be one of the most disastrous situations that can occur in your house. 

Few issues are more frustrating than an overflowing toilet, which can rapidly result in a flooded toilet area. It is not recommended to utilise the toilet when it is in an absolute wreck. Therefore, it will be in your best interest to address the issue as soon as you become aware of it. 

Besides calling a plumber Sydney for a rescue, there are several approaches that you can take to resolve a leaking toilet base, depending on the root of the problem. To determine the most suitable method for this issue, this blog has outlined the potential reasons why your toilet seeping at base and what to do when the problem arises. 

Why Is My Toilet Leaking from the Bottom?

There are various possible causes why the toilet leaking at base, and it might be difficult to detect in some cases. For instance, it can be tricky when you spot pooled water in a shower area near the toilet, you might confuse it for a leak. Or in another circumstance, a faulty circulation system can cause water to accumulate on the floor like a plumbing leak. So, it is crucial to make sure that it is a toilet leakage instead of a common stagnant water.

Now, let’s look at some of the most prevalent reasons for a toilet leak.

1. A Detached Toilet

Incorrect setup is the most common cause of a leaky toilet structure. The toilet is often connected to the base by a metal or plastic closet flange. It is usually placed on top of the sewage line. 

If the toilet has been in use for a while, the bolts may have become loose. Yet it could also occur as a result of rushed and improper fitting, in which the screws failed to stick to the toilet firmly. In other cases, you may find the wax seal falls away and breaks the screw.

It is in your best interest to consult with a local plumber in Sydney to get a professional repair that costs around $240 based on the distance of your place and the plumbing company.

2. Blocked Drain Line

If water is flowing from the bottom and your toilet clogs frequently, you may suspect that there is an obstruction in your drain line. The sewer line serves as the channel for carrying water out of the house.

If it is left unattended, it will cause strain on your toilet wax ring, which can lead to a crack. If you think that this issue occurs in your drain network, do not hesitate to call a plumber Sutherland Shire for a thorough assessment and to clear the blockage.

3. Broken Toilet Bowl

Although its form looks strong, mishaps do happen where the toilet bowls fracture. You may discover hairline cracks on the surface that potentially cause a leaking toilet from the bottom. 

The most effective solution for this matter is to replace the toilet bowl, which may cost you between $70 and $100. This estimation doesn’t include the labour costs.

If the fracture is larger than one-sixteenth of an inch, it is highly advisable to replace the complete toilet unit, with costs around $220 and $530 for a longer period of use.

4. Cracked Wax Seal

When the wax seal breaks, the homeowners rarely notice it. Because it lies between a toilet’s base and the closet edge to prevent the wastewater from escaping the toilet network and turning the house into a mess. A plumber Sydney usually replaces the wax seal with a new one.

5. Loose Water Supply Network

When the hose that connects the bottom of the toilet’s tank and the water supply network loosens, water can accumulate on the ground. In this case, you should make sure that the connectors are tight and secure. 

When it is being repaired, it is in your best interest to switch off the valve to prevent the overflowing water.

How to Fix a Leaking Toilet Base

First and foremost action that should be taken when the toilet is leaking from the bottom is to accurately define the issue. The problems that arise are potentially caused by one of the reasons mentioned above, or by more complex issues that demand the assistance of an expert plumbing technician.

Evaluating the condition of your toilet network is better carried out by inspecting both the internal and external components of the toilet unit and carefully flushing the toilet several times. It is also recommended to adjust the screws at the toilet base to ensure that it doesn’t leak because of the loosening bolt.

Although fixing a leaking toilet foundation can be carried out by yourself, several plumbing issues can only be addressed by plumbing experts. This process usually costs between $150 and $300, depending on the severity of the leak.

Conclusion

This blog has shown that many situations can become factors that lead to a leaking toilet base. It is advisable to be cautious with these issues, as excess water that remains on the bathroom floor can’t only cause destruction but also contribute to the spread of mould. Consequently, it will put your health and your loved ones’ well-being at risk. 

Once you struggle with a toilet leaking from the bottom, make sure that you immediately call a local plumber in Sydney. Getting help from a professional plumber in Sutherland Shire in this matter will help in resolving the situation effectively. Don’t forget to also switch off the central valve to prevent excess loss of water from the toilet seeping at base while waiting for the skilled technician to come to the rescue.

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