The most common explanation is due to settling of the house and ground movement over time, which can cause the ceramic base of the toilet to become brittle and crack resulting in a broken seal. Additionally, it could be due to excessive force or heavy objects being placed on the toilet cover itself which would transfer the stress to the rest of the toilet, resulting in a crack in the base.
If the toilet has been recently installed, it is likely that the sealant around the base was not completely sealed or was not applied properly and allowed for water to seep into the inner workings of the toilet, which could have caused the base to weaken and crack.
Lastly, your toilet may have an inherent defect or had a problem with the setup of the flange, which is the metal ring that surrounds the hole at the bottom of the of the toilet, resulting in an unstable mount and could cause the base to crack.
What causes a toilet to crack at the base?
A cracked toilet at the base can be caused by a few different problems. Some of the potential causes include the weight of an object being placed on the seat of the toilet, loosening of the seat bolts, cracking of the underlying substrate, corrosion, and improper installation.
Weight placed on the seat of the toilet, including from heavy people, can cause the plastic or ceramic at the base of the toilet to crack. Similarly, if the seat bolts become loose, the seat can shift and cause the base of the toilet to crack.
If the underlying substrate is not installed properly or is already cracked, that can lead to the base cracking. Corrosion of the materials making up the base of the toilet can also be a factor in the cracking.
Finally, if the toilet is not installed correctly, that can cause the base to crack due to the shifting of the toilet.
Can a cracked toilet base be repaired?
Yes, a cracked toilet base can be repaired. Depending on the severity of the crack, repairs can range from using a repair kit to completely replacing the toilet base. If the crack is small and the damage is only cosmetic, a toilet repair kit can be used to fill the crack and make it less visible.
The kit typically comes with a sealant that needs to be applied to the crack. The sealant will seal and blend in with the porcelain, making the crack less visible. For more severe cracks, the toilet base might need to be replaced.
The installation process typically involves turning off the water supply to the toilet, disconnecting the supply line and flush valve, removing the toilet from the floor, and then replacing the broken base with a new one.
In this case, it is best to contact a qualified professional to ensure the replacements process is done properly.
Can a toilet tank break on its own?
Yes, a toilet tank can break on its own due to a variety of factors. Depending on the age and condition of the tank, the materials it is made from, and other environmental factors, the toilet tank can become weak or brittle over time and eventually break.
One of the most common causes of a broken tank is a drop in temperature due to drastic changes in weather. If the temperature drops too quickly, it can cause the tank to crack and even split open, resulting in a large mess.
In other cases, the toilet tank may become brittle and break due to hard or thermal shock. In these cases, the tank may be jarred by something or overheated by water that is too hot, resulting in the tank splitting down the middle.
Other causes of tank failure include poor workmanship or installation, cracks due to age, or broken parts due to general wear and tear.
What are the two most common problems repairs with toilets?
The two most common problems that require repairs with toilets are clogged toilets and leaky toilets. Clog toilets occur when there there is too much toilet paper, foreign objects, or grease and fat in the toilet which clogs the drainage pipes.
Leaky toilets occur when the pipes or seals wear out and water starts to leak from the bottom of the toilet onto the floor. Fixing these problems can be done by an experienced plumber, or they can be fixed by the homeowner following specific instructions.
Taking care of the toilet, watching what is flushed and making sure all seals are tight can help to avoid these problems.
What is the lifespan of a toilet?
The lifespan of a toilet will generally depend on the material, brand, and usage. Toilets that are made of higher-end materials and come with longer warranties tend to last longer than those made of lower grade materials, and the same goes for toilets that are put under less daily strain.
On average, a toilet can last anywhere between 10-20 years, or even longer if it is properly cared for. To extend the life of a toilet, it is important to make sure it is regularly cleaned and inspected for any signs of wear and tear, clogs, or leaks.
Additionally, it is important to fix any problems as soon as possible to avoid damages that may lead to costly repairs or a shortened lifespan for the toilet.
Is it cheaper to repair or replace a toilet?
Whether it is cheaper to repair or replace a toilet depends on the specific situation. Generally, a simple toilet repair is often the more cost-effective option and an experienced plumber can typically fix any minor issues in an hour or two.
Common repairs, like replacing a broken flapper or fixing a poor flush, may only cost about $50 in parts and labor. However, if the porcelain is cracked or if the tank is faulty, then it is often more cost-effective to replace the entire unit.
If you need to replace the toilet, you should factor in the cost of the new model, the materials necessary, and the cost of labor. Newer models are often more expensive than older ones, but they may also be more efficient and last longer.
Additionally, if you have an older toilet, you may also need to install new fixtures, such as a new wax ring and closet flange, which can raise costs. In the end, it really boils down to the specific situation and what repairs or replacements are necessary.
Be sure to consult with an experienced plumber to ensure that you make the most cost-effective decision for your home.
Do toilets crack easily?
No, toilets do not typically crack easily. Toilets are generally durable products designed to withstand a considerable amount of wear and tear. However, certain reasons can contribute to a toilet cracking.
These primarily include age and materials used in the construction of the product. Furthermore, if the toilet has been installed improperly it can be more prone to cracking. Another potential reason is exposure to excessively cold temperatures, which could lead to the porcelain cracking.
Additionally, if the toilet is continuously exposed to freezing and thawing it can also become weakened over time, and may eventually begin to crack. On the whole, however, toilets typically do not crack easily.
Can hot water break toilet?
While it’s possible for hot water to break a toilet, it’s not likely. Hot water won’t damage the porcelain of the toilet bowl or tank, so it can’t break those components. But it can potentially cause damage to other toilet components, such as damage to the wax seal between the toilet and the drainpipe, weakening the pipe connections, or potentially damaging seals, gaskets and other components.
In some cases, however, such as in an older plumbing system, hot water may actually cause more damage because it may weaken the materials of the pipes and connections. Ultimately, it’s best to avoid using hot water in the toilet.
Cold water will not damage any of the components, but if you insist on using hot water, use it only occasionally and be sure to check for any leaks or other damages that may have been caused by it.
How do you tell if you have a broken toilet flange?
A broken toilet flange can be difficult to identify, but there are a few key signs to look for. One of the easiest ways to tell if you have a broken toilet flange is to inspect the area where your toilet is located.
Look for any visible signs of movement or warping in the area, which can indicate that the flange has broken away from the floor underneath it. Additionally, check to see if there are any gaps between the flange and the floor, as well as any visible rust, discoloration, or corrosion on the flange or around it.
This can also be a sign of a broken toilet flange. Finally, if your toilet is wobbling, rocking, or leaking, these can all be signs that your toilet flange is broken. If you are still unsure, it is best to contact a professional to have an inspection done.
What are some toilet problems?
Toilet problems can vary widely and can range from minor to major. Common toilet problems include a toilet that clogs or flushes slowly, water spilling out of the toilet base, the toilet not refilling after flushing, toilets that run constantly, and leaking toilets.
Other problems include a toilet bowl that won’t fill, toilets that leak from the tank bolts, a broken toilet handle, a toilet that won’t stop running, a toilet bowl that overflows, and a toilet that rocks back and forth.
Additionally, water pressure issues, drainage blockages, faulty valves, a faulty flapper, and blockages in the pipes can all lead to problems with your toilet. In order to fix these problems you may need to completely replace your toilet or simply make minor repairs.
What is the most common rough in for toilet?
The most common rough in for toilets is 12 inches. This is the distance between the finished wall behind the toilet and the center of the drain pipe. This is the standard size that is used in most residential installations and is suitable for most commercial applications as well.
The rough in size is important when selecting a toilet as toilets with shallower rough ins may not fit properly or may not provide proper flushing performance. If the rough in size is not 12 inches, other sizes are available and should be confirmed before selecting a toilet.
When should I replace my toilet?
Replacing your toilet is usually necessary when it has aged, is not functioning properly, has cracks or flushes slowly. A good rule of thumb is to replace your toilet every 10-15 years or sooner if it is not functioning properly.
If you want to upgrade your toilet to be more efficient or modern, replacing it sooner is also an option. You may also need to replace your toilet if the flange has corroded or the tank is cracked. To determine if a repair is necessary, you can check for signs of water damage or ask a professional for a replacement recommendation.
How do I make my toilet run smoother?
Making your toilet run smoother is an effort worth your time and energy. Here are some simple steps to help you get started:
1. Inspect the Chain – The chain that is connected to the handle can become weak over time, causing the flapper to fail to seal and the toilet to continually run. Toilet flapper chains usually have a hook at the end so that you can adjust the height to ensure it’s not too long or too short.
2. Check the Flapper – Unscrew the plastic nut or cap under the cistern lid that holds the flapper helps to keep the water from draining out of the tank. Ensure the condition of the flapper is good and no further repairs are needed.
Replacing the flapper with a new one is relatively easy and an inexpensive way to fix a continuously running toilet.
3. Check the Water Level – Make sure the water in the tank is at the right level. If it is too low, it can cause the flapper to fail to seal and the toilet to continually run. Adjust the water level until it reaches the level marked on the tank (usually indicated by the word “Full”).
4. Clean the Fill Valve – The fill valve helps refill the tank with water after each flush and clogs or a build-up of debris can take a toll on your fill valve, resulting in the toilet running too often.
Clean the fill valve with a soft brush or damp cloth to remove any build-up.
Following these steps should help you make your toilet run smoother. If you are still having issues with your toilet, it may be best to contact a professional plumber to make sure the problem is resolved efficiently and correctly.
Are all toilet bases the same size?
No, toilet bases are not all the same size. Depending on the type of toilet, the size of the base can vary. Generally, most toilets will have base sizes ranging from approximately 22 to 30 inches in width, and from 18-24 inches in depth.
Standard toilets tend to have smaller bases than round-front or elongated models. One size does not usually fit all, so make sure to measure the area you have available to you before selecting a new toilet.
Additionally, special order toilets may also be available with custom dimensions.