Wrench It Up > Academy > DIY > How To Deal With A Loose Toilet Base?
If your loose toilet base has been caused by a broken wax ring seal, you will need to replace the wax ring. To do this, flush the toilet and then turn off the water supply at either the shut-off valve or the main water supply line.
Remove any screws that are holding down the toilet tank and carefully lift it up to reveal the wax ring. Using a putty knife, scrape off the old wax ring and dispose of it. Then measure and cut a new wax ring to fit the diameter of your toilet base and carefully insert it into place. Once the new wax ring is in position, press down on the base of the toilet until it fits snugly against the floor. Re-attach the toilet tank, turn on the water supply, and test the seal. If you do not feel secure in doing this yourself, it is best to hire a certified plumber who can safely and correctly replace your wax ring.
If your loose toilet base is not caused by a broken wax seal, but rather from floor joists or tile that have shifted and moved over time, you may need to re-level the toilet base. To do this, use a level and place it on top of the bowl. Insert shims between the floor and the toilet’s base until your level rests firmly on top of the bowl with no gaps in between. After you have adjusted your shims, you can screw the base of your toilet to the floor, making sure not to over tighten them. Once all screws are in place and secure, flush the toilet and check that it is stable. If not, try adjusting the shims until you find a secure fit.
Although fixing a loose toilet base can be tricky, with some patience and the right tools, you can do it yourself! If you have any doubts or feel uncomfortable doing this yourself, however, it is best to call a professional plumber for assistance.
If you may need to call a professional plumber in Toronto, we are here to help. Just give us a call now!
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