The problem of toilet leaking from tank bolts is very common. Homeowners usually do not want to deal with this particular problem because any leakage is hard to encounter, let alone a toilet leakage.
However, if you have this problem, you still need to understand the causes and the method to get rid of the problem. You can find out more about it below.
Toilet Leaking from Tank Bolts
First, you have to understand the causes. Several common causes may trigger the toilet to leak from the bolts. Three of them will be explained below, and by reading them, you should know exactly what to do to prevent them.
For those who have frequent problems with toilet leaking from tank bolts, here are the causes.
- The Rusting Bolts
One of the most common reasons why toilet tanks are leaking from bolts is the rusting bolts. They are most likely to be made out of metal, and the toilet is damp and full of water. This is why rust is inevitable.
Toilet tank bolts are frequently exposed to moisture. Rust can form on the bolt heads or the nut and threaded portion that protrudes from the toilet tank. Rusted toilet tank bolts are caused by leaking water, moisture in the bathroom, and other factors.
- The Misaligned Bolts
Besides the toilet tank bolts rusted, these leaks can be caused by misaligned bolts as well. They have to get installed properly, leaving no gaps, and the possibility of the toilet leaking from its bolts becomes minimum.
If possible, install a new wax gasket to create a watertight seal between the toilet and the closet flange, as well as a new flexible water-supply tube.
- Cracked and Damaged Bolts
The next level and ultimate reason why the leakage is coming from the bolts is that the bolts are cracked and completely damaged. When this happens, there is nothing else you can do but replace it with the new one.
How to Stop the Toilet Tank Bolts from Leaking
Now you have read the causes. It is time to figure out the method or the step-by-step tutorial on how to solve the leakage problem. It is not a DIY job, so that if you cannot do anything related to the handyman job and plumbing, you should call someone professional.
The step-by-step to do the mend on toilet leaking from tank bolts are:
- Turn off the water supply valve. The first thing you have to do is prep. Prepare some new bolts and screwdrivers. You will also have to find the valve on the back or the side of the toilet to turn off the water supply. Fiddle this valve and completely stop the water flow.
- After the water is completely stopped flowing and drains, start removing the damaged or rusting bolts. These old bolts will be replaced with the new ones so that you can throw away the old, rusting ones.
- Use your screwdriver to help to install the new bolts to some of its places. Make sure the new bolts are in the same size and type as the old ones. Do not use different types of size because this will cause leakage as well eventually.
- After the bolts are there, now you need to install the tank back. Use your screwdriver to secure the position of the tank once you have installed the new bolts. It is like tightening the nuts on the bolts to keep them in their place.
- Check for leaks. Turn the water flow back on, and then let inspects for some leaks. If there are none, your toilet is now ready to use.
After following the step-by-step above, the leak will surely go away. Check the toilet once in a while, though, to prevent any future accidents. By that, the problem of toilet leaking from tank bolts is now solved, and the toilet can be used as you pleased.
