How Thick Of A Wax Ring Do I Need?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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If it’s at the same level, or no more than 1/4 inch below it, a regular wax ring, which is

between 3/4 and 1 inch thick

, is all you need. If the flange is recessed deeper than that, you need an extra-thick wax ring, which is about an inch thicker than a regular one.

How do I know what size wax ring I need?

To determine the correct width for your wax ring,

simply turn your toilet bowl on its side, and measure the opening on the bottom of your toilet, called the “elbow neck

.” Whatever width this measurement is, use that width wax ring. E.g. if the elbow neck measures 3 inches, use a 3-inch wax ring.

Why use a jumbo wax ring?

Under ideal conditions, the standard ring is just a bit too tall so that it

compresses just enough

to form a good seal without squeezing out into the drainage path and causing an obstruction. Toilets with more than normal spacing will need a taller ring to achieve a proper seal.

Does a toilet need 2 wax rings?


You Don’t Have to Use a Double Wax Ring


Plumbers have been

using wax rings to seal toilets almost as long as there have been toilets because wax is waterproof, sticky and molds to any shape. It’s messy, though, so manufacturers have come up with a toilet wax ring alternative made of rubber.

Do wax rings fit all toilets?

While buying a new wax ring, you will need to make sure that you buy one which will fit into your your toilet.

Toilet wax rings are universal but the size has to be right

. It is also important to note down the size of the toilet drainpipe.

Which is better toilet wax ring or rubber?

So, which is better? It all comes down to your personal preference. If you feel more comfortable using something tried and true, stick to a

wax ring

. For a newer mess-free approach, wax-free toilet seals are the way to go.

Should you put the wax ring on the toilet or the flange?

Place the wax ring

on the closet flange

, not on the toilet. Pick up the toilet and set it evenly over the closet flange, making sure the bolts come through the bolt holes in the toilet base. Fine-tune the toilet position, so it’s right where you want it, then push it straight down so it smashes the wax evenly.

Should I use jumbo or regular wax ring?

If the flange is recessed deeper than that, you need an extra-thick wax ring, which is about

an inch thicker than a regular one

. … If the flange is within 1/4 inch of floor level, do not use an extra-thick wax ring. You won’t be able to compress it sufficiently to prevent the toilet from rocking.

How do I know if my wax ring is sealed?


Water around the Toilet Base

The first sign of a bad toilet ring is water forming around the base of the toilet. To test that a bad seal is the problem, grab a couple of towels and wipe up the water. Go on with your day, checking periodically to see if the water has returned.

How long does toilet wax ring last?

The wax ring is exactly what it sounds like: a ring made of sticky wax that helps form a watertight seal between the bottom of the toilet and the sewer pipe. It requires no maintenance and can last

30 or more years, often as long as the toilet itself

.

Why do toilet wax seals fail?

One very common cause of wax ring problems is loose toilets.

If the toilet is not firmly mounted, or gets loose to the point where it rocks a bit, it can cause the wax ring to lose its seal

. When installed, a wax ring is compressed to fit the flange and the toilet, creating the seal.

What is the best wax ring for a toilet?

  • Our choice. Fluidmaster 7530P8 Universal Better Than Wax Toilet Seal, Wax-Free Toilet Bowl Gasket Fits Any Drain. Buy on Amazon.
  • Sani Seal Llc BL01 Waxless Toilet Gasket. – Buy on Amazon.
  • NEXT BY DANCO Perfect Seal Toilet Wax Ring | Wax-Free Toilet Seal | Toilet Installation & Repair (10718X) , Black. Buy on Amazon.

Should the toilet flange be on top of tile?

Yes, the

toilet flange should be seated over the tile

so that it can be secured tightly through the bolts. … The usual method followed is to place the flange on the tile and its bottom is touching the tile. You then fix the flange with the screws ensuring they go below the thickness of the tile.

Do Waxless toilet rings work?

All of the wax style rings, waxless rings, or gasket seals

will work if installed properly

. … Some of the new waxless style toilet seals have a longer seal or can be stacked which can make it easy for anyone to set a toilet without leaks.

How often does a toilet wax ring need to be replaced?

Between the toilet and the flange is a wax seal. The wax keeps water from leaking as it passes from the toilet to the drain pipe. It also seals against foul sewer gas odors. A wax seal will often last the life of the toilet,

20 or 30 years

, without needing to be changed.

Should you seal around base toilet?

Turns out, caulking your toilet to the floor is actually smart. … These clients say that caulking around the base of the toilet would

trap water from a leaking toilet

, causing damage below and around the toilet since it has no place to leak onto the floor.

David Martineau
Author
David Martineau
David is an interior designer and home improvement expert. With a degree in architecture, David has worked on various renovation projects and has written for several home and garden publications. David's expertise in decorating, renovation, and repair will help you create your dream home.