The bolt size typically used for a standard toilet is ⅜″ – 16. The bolts used to secure the toilet to the floor are made of metal and measure 3-1/2 inches in length. They can be used in either concrete or wood flooring and are generally supplied with a new toilet when purchased.
The bolts will require a nut and washer to secure the toilet to the floor. Additionally, toilet bolts typically come with a polyethylene sleeve and a wax ring to seal the toilet to the flange. You may find, however, that you need to purchase new bolts if you are replacing or upgrading a toilet or flange.
Make sure to double-check the size of your bolts before purchasing any replacements to ensure you are getting the right size.
What bolts to use on toilet tank?
When selecting bolts to use on a toilet tank it is important to consider the type of toilet you have as some tanks may require specific types of bolts. It is also important to consider the material that the bolts should be made out of in order to ensure they will not corrode and will last for the longest time possible.
Common bolt materials used on toilet tanks include brass, zinc-plated steel, stainless steel, and nylon.
Brass is a popular choice for toilet tanks because it is long-lasting and does not corrode easily. It is also relatively inexpensive compared to other materials, making it a good option if you have a tight budget.
Zinc-plated steel is also a popular choice because of its durability and rust resistance. Steel is also an economical choice for those who are on a budget, but be aware that it will not last as long as brass or other materials.
Stainless steel is an excellent choice for toilet tanks as it is highly rust-resistant, making it perfect for humid or moist environments. While it is more expensive than brass or steel, it is worth the cost in terms of durability.
Nylon bolts are a great choice if you live in an area with hard water, as they are more resistant to corrosion. They are also more flexible than other materials, making them more likely to seal any gaps in the plumbing and prevent leakage.
Nylon bolts tend to be more expensive than other materials, but they are worth the price for the extra protection they provide.
When selecting bolts to use on your toilet tank, it is important to consider the type of toilet and the environment in which it will be located. You should also consider the material that the bolts should be made out of in order to ensure they will last as long as possible.
The most common materials used for toilet tanks are brass, zinc-plated steel, stainless steel, and nylon.
How do you anchor a toilet to the floor?
Anchoring a toilet to the floor typically follows these steps:
1. Begin by ensuring that the base of the toilet is clean, dry and free from dirt and debris for best results.
2. If the toilet has a wax seal, remove this before moving on and use plumber’s putty to seal the bolts and fittings when the toilet is reinstalled.
3. Attach the mounting bolts and washers to the bottom of the toilet bowl. You may need to use an adjustable wrench to tighten the bolts.
4. Set the toilet in the desired location and make sure that the edges of the toilet base are even with the floor.
5. Install the washers and nuts onto the mounting bolts sticking out from the bottom of the toilet and tighten with a wrench.
6. Increase the tension of the bolts by continuing to tighten them in 1/4 turn increments with the wrench. This will increase the tension, anchoring the toilet firmly to the floor.
7. If your toilet still feels loose, place plastic shims between the toilet base and the floor. This will add further stability and support.
8. Finally, use a level to make sure the toilet is even, and apply more putty if needed for a secure, airtight seal.
Are all toilet tank bolts the same size?
No, not all toilet tank bolts are the same size. The size and type of toilet tank bolts you need for your toilet will depend on a variety of factors, including the brand and model of your toilet, the type of materials used, and the configuration of the tank.
Generally, toilet tank bolts come in two main sizes – a 3/8 inch diameter and a 5/16 inch diameter. However, some toilets may require a larger or smaller size, so it’s important to check which size you need before purchasing or installing new toilet tank bolts.
Additionally, there are also a variety of different types of bolts, such as hex-head, allen-head, and captured-nut bolts, so you’ll also need to ensure you get the right type for your toilet.
Does a toilet need to be bolted down?
Yes, a toilet needs to be bolted down. This ensures that the toilet is properly supported and secure. Bolting a toilet down also helps to reduce vibration when using it and can also help to prevent the toilet from shifting position over time.
It also helps to prevent the toilet bowl from cracking due to clogs or other discrepancies. When bolting a toilet down, it is important to use new bolts and affix them correctly in order to ensure the toilet is held firmly in place.
How do you bolt down a toilet tank?
Bolting down a toilet tank should be a relatively straightforward process. To start, you will need to locate the mounting bolts on the underside of the tank. These bolts are usually covered by a round plastic cap.
Underneath the cap is a nut and bolt with washers or a plastic insert. The insert may need to be removed with a flat-head screwdriver if it is in place.
Next, position the tank on the toilet bowl, and make sure it is level. Take the nuts off the bolts and insert the bolts through the holes in the tank. This should align the bolts with the holes in the toilet bowl.
Next, apply some plumber’s putty on the screw threads and place a rubber washer and metal washer on each bolt before threading on the nut. Then, secure the nut by hand until it is tight.
Finally, use a wrench to tighten the nuts further. Make sure that the tank is level and secure, but not overtightened. Once the nuts are tightened, replace the plastic caps on the nuts and your toilet tank should be securely bolted in place.
Can you over tighten bolts on toilet?
Yes, you can over tighten bolts on a toilet. Over tightening the bolts on a toilet can cause a lot of problems including cracks in the porcelain bowl, broken seals, damaged tank fittings, and possibly even leaks.
To prevent over tightening, you should make sure you stop applying torque when the nut feels snug and the washers are firmly compressed against the base of the toilet. Using an adjustable wrench can make it easier to achieve the correct tightness.
You should also make sure to use the correct size of bolts and washers. If you find that the bolts are difficult to reach, use an extension wrench or universal joints to increase the reach.
What size are tank bolts?
Tank bolts typically range in size from 1/4 inch to 5/16 inch. The size required depends on the size and capacity of the tank, with larger tanks likely to require larger bolts. Tank bolts typically feature a combination of steel, aluminum, or brass construction, and often have a black oxide finish to prevent corrosion.
When tightening tank bolts, it’s important to make sure the threads are properly aligned and not cross-threaded. To ensure a tight fit, use a torque wrench to secure tank bolts with the appropriate torque setting.
Additionally, it’s best to use a thread-locking compound to ensure the bolt doesn’t vibrate loose over time.
What kind of screws to use to secure a toilet flange?
When securing a toilet flange, it is important to use screws that are strong enough to hold the flange securely in place. The most commonly used screws for toilet flanges are lag screws. These are designed to hold the flange in place without coming loose and also provide a secure hold over time.
They come in a variety of lengths, usually from 1/2 inch to 1 inch long. When working with a metal flange, it is important to make sure that you use lag screws that are made of stainless steel or another non-corrosive material, as the moisture in the bathroom can cause the screws to corrode over time.
It is also important to make sure that the screws are self-tapping, which means that they are designed to easily go into the material of the flange, rather than requiring pre-drilling. When drilling into the flange, it is important to use a drill bit with the same size as the lag screw being used.
This will ensure that the screw goes into the flange safely and securely.
How much does it cost to replace toilet tank bolts?
The cost to replace toilet tank bolts will depend on the type of bolts you need and the types of supplies required. Many hardware stores have universal tank to bowl bolts that cost around $5 per set.
These bolts come with the washers and nuts needed for most toilets. If you need longer bolts because you have a thicker tank, the cost may be higher. You may also need special supplies such as caulk, a wax ring, or a tank to bowl gasket.
You can usually get those items at any hardware or plumbing store for a few dollars each. In general, you should expect to spend around $20 to $30 to replace the tank bolts on your toilet. It may be slightly more or less depending on the supplies needed.
How are toilets anchored?
Toilets are typically securely anchored to the floor and mounted to the wall in a few different ways. Depending on the type of material used for the mounting, it may be as simple as using a few bolts and washers.
For porcelain and ceramic toilets, lag bolts with large washers that are made for mounting porcelain are typically used.
When mounting the toilet to the floor, it’s important to use plumber’s putty or a special concrete adhesive to prevent the bolts from slipping when force is applied. The putty should first be applied around the base of the toilet before the bolt attachments are secured in the appropriate places.
Anchoring the toilet bowl to the wall or wallboard will generally require the use of several specific toilet mounting bolts, nuts and washers. This is an important step, as it helps ensure the toilet is properly leveled, as well as securely fastened to the wall.
Finally, the water intake pipe should be connected to the outside of the wall, so that it feeds the toilet’s water tank. This connection should also be properly secured to prevent it from slipping or breaking.
Why do my toilet seat screws keep coming loose?
The screws on your toilet seat likely keep coming loose because the holes in the seat or the screws themselves are not the correct size. When this happens, the screws are not being held securely in the seat and can easily come loose over time.
Additionally, it is possible that the screwdriver you are using to tighten them is too small or the wrong type of screwdriver. If you have been using a Phillips screwdriver, and the screws on the seat are actually slotted, then the screwdriver will not properly secure them.
Lastly, the wood may have shifted slightly over time, making the holes slightly larger than when originally installed. In this case, you can purchase specialized screw anchors to make sure that the screws stay in place.
How do you tighten a toilet bolt without breaking it?
To tighten a toilet bolt without breaking it, the most important thing is to use the right tools for the job. First, use a wrench and carefully loosen the nut on the bottom of the toilet (located below the bowl).
Next, use your hand or a wrench to tighten the plastic washer that sits in between the bowl and the floor. You may need to add a thin layer of plumber’s putty or a sealer to help create a watertight seal.
Finally, you can use a socket wrench to firmly but carefully tighten the bolt until it is snug. It is important to keep a steady pressure on the nut without over-tightening it, as this could cause it to break.
Many times a bolt may need to be replaced if it is too loose or you cannot tighten it any more. This is an easy job that a professional plumber may be able to assist with.
Do you need plumbers putty to install a toilet?
Yes, plumbers putty is required when installing a toilet. The putty is used to create a waterproof seal between the base of the toilet and the floor. To install a toilet with plumbers putty, start by placing a generous amount of the putty around the base of the toilet.
Then, position the toilet on top of the flange, making sure the base of the toilet is in contact with the putty. Be sure to press down firmly to ensure a good seal. Finally, use a soft cloth to wipe away any excess putty.
Following these steps will help ensure your toilet is securely installed and has a good seal that won’t leak.
Are toilets bolted to the floor?
Yes, toilets are typically bolted to the floor for safety and stability. Toilets should be securely fastened to the floor with two sets of bolts and mounting hardware. The bolts should be inserted into the predrilled holes located at the bottom of the toilet, then the floor.
The mounting hardware includes wax seals and washers. The bolts should then be tightened with a ratchet wrench until the toilet is firmly attached to the floor. In addition, the wax seals help to ensure a secure seal between the toilet and the floor, which can help to prevent leaks.
Finally, it’s important to ensure the bolts are strong enough to support the weight of the toilet. All of these steps should be taken to ensure a secure and safe toilet that is properly bolted to the floor.