If you’re wondering what size wax ring you need for your toilet, you’ve come to the right place. In this blog post, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about choosing the right wax ring for your toilet.
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Introduction
When your toilet leaks, it’s most likely due to a faulty wax ring. The wax ring is a donut-shaped piece of wax that create a seal between the toilet and the drain pipe. While it may seem like a small problem, a leaky wax ring can actually lead to serious damage if left untreated. That’s why it’s important to know how to choose the right size wax ring for your toilet.
There are a few different factors that you’ll need to consider when selecting a wax ring. First, you’ll need to know the measurements of your toilet. The most important measurement is the distance from the center of the bolts that hold down your toilet to the floor. This measurement will determine the size of the hole in the center of the wax ring. You’ll also need to know the height of your toilet bowl, as this will determine the thickness of the wax ring.
Once you have these measurements, you can start shopping for a wax ring. Wax rings come in standard sizes, so you should be able to find one that will fit your toilet perfectly. However, if you’re unsure about which size to choose, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and select a larger size. A too-small wax ring won’t provide a proper seal, which could lead to leaks.
Keep in mind that you’ll also need to purchase bolts and washers for installing your new wax ring. Most kits will come with everything you need, but it’s always good to double-check before making your purchase. With all of these supplies in hand, you’ll be ready to fix your leaky toilet in no time!
What is a Wax Ring?
A wax ring is a donut-shaped seal made of wax that is used to create a watertight seal between a toilet and the drain pipe. The wax ring is necessary to prevent sewage gas from escaping into your home and to keep water from leaking out of the toilet.
factors to Consider When Choosing a Wax Ring
When you are shopping for a wax ring for your toilet, you will need to take into account the size of your toilet, the type of seal you need, and the material the wax ring is made of. You will also need to decide if you want a traditional wax ring or an adjustable wax ring. This article will help you decide which wax ring is right for you.
The Toilet Bowl
There are a few things you need to take into consideration when purchasing a wax ring for your toilet. The most important factor is the size of the toilet bowl. If you have a standard sized bowl, then you will need a standard sized wax ring. However, if you have a larger bowl, then you will need a larger wax ring. You can usually find the size of your toilet bowl on the bottom of the bowl. Another factor to consider is the type of flange that you have. If you have a round flange, then you will need a round wax ring. If you have an offset flange, then you will need an offset wax ring. You can usually find the type of flange that you have by looking at the bolts that hold the toilet down. The last factor to consider is the height of the toilet flange. If you have a tall flange, then you will need a tall wax ring. If you have a short flange, then you will need a short wax ring. You can usually find the height of your flange by measuring from the floor to the top of the flange.
The Toilet Flange
The flange is the part of the toilet that bolts to the floor and connects to the drain pipe. The size of the flange dictates the size of the wax ring that is needed. The flange must be level with the finished floor or slightly above it. If it is lower than the finished floor, it will need to be raised with a flange extender or by shimming up the toilet base.
If you are unsure of the size of your flange, measure the distance from the center of the flange bolt holes to the outer edge of the flange. This measurement will determine what size wax ring you need.
-3″ for a standard 10″ diameter bowl
-4″ for a 12″ diameter bowl
-5″ for an oversized bowl
The Toilet Horn
If your home was built before 1995, chances are good that your soil stack (the main vertical drain pipe that all the plumbing fixtures in your home tie into) is made of cast iron. While cast iron drain pipes are very durable, they are also very susceptible to corrosion from the inside out. As the corrosion progresses, the diameter of the pipe gets smaller and smaller, eventually to the point where it can no longer effectively carry waste water away from your home. If you have an old cast iron soil stack in your home, it is a good idea to have it replaced with modern PVC piping.
How to Install a Wax Ring
Installing a wax ring is a necessary plumbing task when you are resetting a toilet or when you are replacing a toilet that sits on a raised floor. A wax ring provides a water-tight seal between the bottom of the toilet and the drain pipe. Without this seal, water will leak from the base of the toilet, causing damage to the floor and potentially creating health hazards.
There are different sizes of wax rings available, so it is important to select the size that is appropriate for your toilet. The most common size is 3 inches, but there are also 5- and 6-inch options available. You will also need to select a wax ring with the right type of flange for your drain pipe. There are two types of flanges: those with an integral boot and those without a boot. An integral boot has a rubber gasket that helps form a water-tight seal around the drain pipe, while a wax ring without a boot relies on the weight of the toilet to compress the wax and create a seal.
Selecting the right size wax ring and flange is essential to ensuring that your toilet functions properly and does not leak. In most cases, you will want to use a 3-inch wax ring with an integral boot; however, if your drain pipe is particularly large or if your toilet is sitting on an uneven surface, you may need to use a larger wax ring or one without a boot. If you are unsure about what size or type of wax ring to use, consult with a qualified plumber before proceeding with your installation.
Conclusion
Now that you know the different types and sizes of wax rings available, you can make an informed decision about which ring is right for your toilet. If you need help, don’t hesitate to ask a professional at your local home improvement store. With a little help, you can easily find the perfect wax ring for your needs.
