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How To Shim A Toilet?

Writer Emily Cortez

Numerous issues can arise as a result of a shaky toilet. It is possible that the toilet will simply come off while you are sitting on it, which is the first and most evident concern. Toilets are extremely heavy, and falling from one can cause harm to more than just the toilet.

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Toilet repair is not a joke. Indeed, it is a grave matter that should be handled expeditiously. Without doing so, it might have a negative effect on the household members, especially if there is only one comfort room available for everyone to use. So, to avoid any inconvenience, it is vital to understand the basics of the toilet repair.

One unusual incident that many people encounter is wobbling or swaying toilets. You can just picture yourself sitting just there when you need it most, but your toilet is a little unsteady. Apart from confirming that it is truly rocking, it can create havoc if it overflows during flushing.

Shims to Repair Wobbly Toilet Bases

  • After properly positioning the toilet, check for wobbles. Do not forget to slightly loosen the nuts. If you observe a tiny shift from one side to the other, try slipping some pennies or steel washers directly into the toilet floor’s cracks. To minimize rusting and perhaps staining the floor, use stainless steel washers.
  • If you discover bigger gaps between the floor and the fixture, consider using shims instead of coins and washers. You can efficiently resolve the issue by utilizing plastic shims. Avoid using wooden shims since they will rot and reoccur.
  • Shims can be inserted into the section where the gaps were discovered. These will act as fillers to eliminate the fixture’s wobbliness. You may next tighten the nuts and trim the surplus shims to properly seal around the toilet’s base.

This is followed by sealing the base of the fixture with some plumbing sealant, which will keep the fixture securely in place on the flooring. To avoid any issues, wait until the sealant has dried completely before using the toilet. If feasible, have a professional inspect your installation if you are unsure of the outcomes.