There can be several reasons why your toilet may be lifting off the floor. This issue is often caused by problems with the wax ring seal between the toilet and the floor, loose or corroded bolts, floor movement or settling, or high water pressure. Determining the specific cause is key to properly repairing the problem and preventing further damage. In most cases, this issue can be resolved by resetting the toilet and replacing key components like the wax ring and bolts.
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Common Causes
Wax Ring Failure
The wax ring provides the critical seal between the toilet and the floor, preventing water and sewer gases from escaping. Over time, this wax ring can become flattened, cracked, or dislodged from its proper positioning. A failing wax ring breaks the seal and allows water and pressure to escape around the base of the toilet. As pressure builds beneath the toilet, it can begin lifting off the floor. Replacing an old, damaged wax ring with a new ring of proper thickness and consistency will re-establish the seal.
Loose or Corroded Bolts
Most toilets are secured to the floor using two or four bolts tightened on a flange beneath the toilet. If these bolts become loose due to vibration or weakening over time, the toilet will not be properly anchored to the floor. Corrosion from water exposure can also damage the bolts. Loose or corroded bolts allow movement that can break the wax ring seal and lead to rocking and lifting of the toilet. Replacing rusted bolts and tightly re-securing the toilet helps stop this movement.
Floor Movement or Settling
Movement or sinking of the floor underneath the toilet over time is another common cause of a lifted toilet. If the floor becomes uneven or sinks in any way, it can disturb the wax ring seal and connection of the toilet flange to the drain pipe. As the floor shifts, the toilet can rock and eventually lift off the surface while remaining connected to the plumbing. In these cases, the floor itself needs to be leveled and supported properly to provide a stable base for resetting the toilet.
High Water Pressure
Excessive water pressure entering the toilet from the supply line can also lead to lifting. As higher than normal water rushes into the toilet with significant force, it pushes up underneath the toilet and places great strain on the wax ring. The excessive pressure can damage the seal and cause leaks as the toilet is pushed upwards. Installing a pressure regulator and adjusting the water supply valves can help lower the input pressure and reduce strain on the connections.
Inspection and Diagnosis
Diagnosing the specific cause of a lifted toilet involves carefully inspecting the toilet components and connections, as well as evaluating the condition of the flooring:
– Check around the base of the toilet for any signs of water damage, leaks, or loose bolts. Water stains, damp areas, or rust on the bolts can indicate leaks from a compromised wax ring.
– Try rocking the toilet gently side-to-side and front-to-back. Significant movement indicates the bolts and connections are loose.
– Examine the wax ring for flattened or cracked areas and confirm it is seated evenly around the drain opening. An uneven, damaged ring needs replacement.
– Test the floor for levelness using a level tool. Check in multiple directions around the toilet area. Any uneven or sloped spots indicate floor settlement issues.
– Measure the water pressure entering the toilet if pressure seems unusually high. Pressure above 80 psi may lift the toilet over time.
– Assess the condition of the flange and bolts underneath the toilet if accessible. Rust, damage or loose connections can contribute to lifting.
Thorough inspection will help pinpoint whether the wax ring, bolts, floor, or water pressure is causing the problem. This accurate diagnosis allows you to implement the proper repair.
How to Fix a Lifted Toilet
Resetting the toilet and replacing key components is the main process for resolving a lifted toilet:
Turn Off Water Supply
Begin by shutting off the shutoff valve located behind the toilet to cut off water supply to the tank. Flush the toilet to empty remaining water from the tank and bowl. Soak up any remaining water using towels.
Remove Toilet
Use a wrench to loosen the bolts securing the toilet to the flange. Carefully lift the toilet vertically to detach it from the wax ring seal and set it aside. Wear gloves and use rags to sop up any remaining water or wax residue.
Inspect Wax Ring and Flange
Examine the existing wax ring and floor flange for any damage. A cracked, flattened, or uneven wax ring should be replaced. If the floor flange is loose, corroded, or not level with the floor, it may need repair or replacement as well.
Replace Wax Ring
Apply a new wax ring evenly around the floor flange, pressing it firmly into place. Choose a ring with proper thickness and consistency. The ring should sit flat and stable.
Install Toilet
Lower the toilet back onto the flange, centering it evenly over the wax ring. Rock the toilet slightly side-to-side or front-to-back to fully seat it into the wax ring seal. Do not disturb wax ring positioning.
Tighten Bolts
Insert bolts through toilet holes to attach to the flange. Tighten bolts evenly using a wrench, alternating diagonally between bolts. Do not overtighten. Reinstall bolt caps if present.
Turn Water On and Test
Turn the water supply back on and allow the tank to fill. Check the base of the toilet and all connections for any leaks. Flush the toilet multiple times to verify proper operation. The lifted toilet should now remain secure to the floor.
Preventing Toilet Lifting
Proper toilet maintenance and taking preventative measures can help avoid toilet lifting issues:
– Replace the wax ring seal every 5-7 years or immediately if rocking or leaks are noticed. Do not simply stack rings.
– Inspect bolts regularly and tighten if any looseness is found. Replace corroded bolts.
– Monitor water pressure and install a pressure regulator if pressure exceeds 80 psi.
– Evaluate floor for levelness around the toilet and address any settling issues.
– Use toilet bowl cleaners and rinse water carefully to avoid damaging the wax ring. Harsh chemicals can corrode bolts.
– Avoid overloading the toilet with excess weight that can shift the toilet position.
– Make any needed repairs to the flange, flooring, or other components below the toilet.
With attentive maintenance and prompt repair of any issues, a lifted toilet can be avoided. But if it does occur, understanding the likely causes and proper resetting technique can get the toilet securely reseated to the floor.
When to Call a Professional
In some situations, the services of a plumber may be needed to adequately address a lifted toilet:
– If attempts to reset the toilet fail to resolve lifting or leaks, there may be larger issues needing professional repair.
– For suspected problems with the flooring or underlying support system, a plumber can assess and make structural repairs.
– If the floor flange is damaged or incorrectly installed, a plumber can replace or realign it properly.
– Severely corroded or stripped bolts may need replacement by a plumber if they cannot be removed as needed.
– In older homes, cast iron flanges and lead bolts may require specially trained professionals for safe replacement.
– If water pressure regulation does not correct excessively high incoming water pressure, a plumber can investigate supply line issues.
– For liability reasons, some homeowners may prefer hiring a plumber rather than risking water damage from DIY toilet repairs.
Though moderately priced, hiring a professional to ensure proper correction of major issues can give homeowners peace of mind. But for straightforward wax ring or bolt replacements in accessible toilets, DIY methods often suffice.
Conclusion
A toilet lifting off the floor is an annoying and often messy problem, but it is usually repairable with basic tools and replacement parts. Confirming the specific cause through careful inspection allows you to pinpoint repairs to the wax ring, bolts, water pressure, or flooring as needed. Resetting the toilet step-by-step, replacing components, and taking preventive maintenance measures will get your toilet solidly resealed to the floor. Calling on a professional plumber is a good option if complex repairs are required. With proper diagnosis and corrections, a lifted toilet can be returned to full functioning.