How to Fix Leaky Toilet Bases and Flaps Instantly

Leaky toilets are definitely one of the biggest annoyances when it comes to home maintenance. Not only is it disgusting to clean the poor toilet that suffered so much through the last years, it is also difficult to fix without advanced tools and methods. In this Hubpages, we examine some of the common problems that lead to toilet leaks, and several easy ways you can fix the leaks instantly. The best recommendation we can give however is to consult with a professional plumber, who would be able to identify and resolve the problem quickly and efficiently. We also look at ways to maintain your toilet so you do not suffer any future leaking issues.

There are several ways a toilet leak can occur, both on the base and the flap. Let's first have a look at common occurrences. For example, if you like to constantly dump solid waste (other than your excrement) into your toilet, chances are, it will start to build up over time, causing your toilet base to clog. The blocked drainage system can cause pressure on the pipes, inevitably leading to pipe leakages within the toilet system.

External factors may also influence the rate of toilet leakage. For example, if your bathroom is really cold at night (most probably at freezing temperature), this can cause external pressure on the toilet, causing eventual leakage on the floor.

Toilet leakages may also occur if the product was simply installed with defect parts. In such a scenario, it is best to call a professional to handle the situation. Before you do, see if you can access to any valves within the toilet pipe system and see if any are not screwed on tightly. One simple turn may fix your whole leakage issue.

Before you start the fixing process, there are several precautions you have to take. First, make sure you have safety gloves on. You never know what kind of chemical you may come in contact with. Also, wear safety goggles because high pressured water could suddenly spray out at any given moment. Next, turn off the water feed by switching the handle sides. The water feed handle is normally located right next to the toilet base.

Next, locate the area where the leakage is potentially coming from. This could be coming from the main seal, tank, or any other parts of the toilet that has constant access to water. You will get an idea of where the leakage is coming from by checking where the puddle forms. If it involves the main seal, you have to remove the toilet base. Due to the different toilet designs, you will need to refer to a manual in order to find out how you can remove the base. This can be as simple as removing two screws, or as complex as using special tools. Make sure you keep all outlying screws in a safe area such as a nearby corner desk.

Once you have removed the toilet base, you will be able to easily identify the part of the pipe where the leakage is coming from. If it involves the main seal, you will have to get yourself a new wax seal that tightens it. Simply take the old one off and replace it with a new one. This should fix most problems people have with leaking toilets. Once the new wax seal is installed, put back all the bolts and base materials, turn on the water feed, and check if it becomes a reoccurring problem.

If the leakage starts from the water tank, you may be in for a bit more work. Again, turn off the water feed and put on all safety equipment. Flush out all remaining water from the tank. Since the feed is closed, it should remain empty. Pull the little bolts and pieces out one by one (making a mental note of where each came from), and identify the problem of the leakage. For water tank issues, it would probably occur in the water gasket, the part that connects the tank to the feed. In such a scenario, take out the gasket unit and replace it with a new one. Make sure the new unit is tightly installed. Attach the water feed and see if your problems are solved. Again, some problems can be extremely severe so it would be best for a professional to handle it or the situation could get even worse!