How To Replace A Toilet Wax Ring - Oatey

A toilet wax ring is a circular gasket that creates a watertight and airtight seal between the toilet base and the floor flange. Its main job is to prevent water leaks and sewer gases from escaping every time you flush.

When a wax ring begins to fail, you may notice water pooling around the toilet, unpleasant odors, or a toilet that rocks or feels unsteady. These are signs that the seal has loosened or deteriorated and needs to be replaced.

To learn more about how wax rings work and why they're essential for every toilet installation, read: Oatey 101: Wax Rings.

Replacing a worn or damaged wax ring restores the proper seal between the toilet and the flange, preventing leaks and blocking sewer gases from entering the home. This simple repair not only stops odors and moisture, but also protects your subfloor from hidden water damage. Whether you choose a traditional wax ring or a wax-free seal, replacing it helps your toilet operate efficiently and keeps your bathroom clean and odor-free.

This blog will provide a step-by-step guide on replacing a toilet wax ring and offer tips to ensure your project is executed correctly.

While DIYing is admirable, some jobs require the expertise of a licensed professional. Always be honest about your skill level and don't hesitate to call for help when needed.

What to Consider Before Replacing a Toilet Wax Ring

• New flooring: Replacing vinyl flooring with something thicker, such as ceramic tile, can create a gap between the toilet and the toilet flange. We recommend using a flange spacer to raise the flange to the proper height. Toilet flanges should sit on top of the finished floor.
• Check your toilet flange: Does your toilet wobble from side to side? If your toilet rocks enough for one side of the base to lift off the floor - even just a bit - you may have a broken toilet flange. As a precaution, we recommend picking up a flange repair kit.
• Test your toilet's flapper: Fixing a leaky flapper can save hundreds of gallons of water. A good time to replace a leaky flapper is after you've drained the toilet tank and disconnected the water supply. To test the flapper before turning off the water, tint it in the tank with food coloring and let it sit for 10 minutes. If any colored water leaks into the bowl, replace the flapper.
• Check for water damage: If you are removing the toilet because of a leak at the base or water damage in the ceiling below, confirm the cause of the damage before heading to the store. Water can damage the subfloor enough to affect the strength of the fasteners attaching the toilet flange - and the toilet - to the floor. Determine whether you need to cut away the damaged subfloor and replace it.
• Inspect T-bolts: Whenever a wax seal is replaced, it is also recommended to replace the T-bolts that attach the toilet to the flange. Some toilet wax rings come in a complete kit with new mounting bolts.