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A leaking toilet might seem like a minor inconvenience, but don’t be fooled—it can lead to serious damage if not addressed quickly. At Peaden, we’re experts when it comes to kitchen and bathroom plumbing in Pensacola, FL, and we’ve seen how a simple trickle can turn into a costly repair, especially when it starts affecting your flooring, subflooring, and even nearby walls. If you notice water pooling around the base of your toilet, it’s time to act fast. Here’s what you need to know and what to do next.
Why Toilet Leaks Are a Big Deal
Water around the base of your toilet isn’t just messy—it’s a red flag for potentially hidden problems. Even a small leak can seep beneath tile or vinyl, leading to mold growth, wood rot, or structural issues. Left unchecked, this can result in expensive repairs and even health hazards.
In our experience, homeowners often don’t realize the extent of the damage until it’s too late. That’s why Peaden Pros always recommend treating any toilet leak as an urgent matter.
Common Causes of Toilet Leaks
Leaks around the toilet base can stem from a few sources:
- Worn Wax Ring: The wax ring seals the toilet to the drainpipe. Over time, this seal can break down and allow water to escape.
- Loose Toilet Bolts: If the bolts anchoring your toilet to the floor are loose, the toilet may shift and break the seal.
- Cracks in the Toilet Base: Hairline fractures in the porcelain can allow water to leak.
- Condensation: Sometimes what looks like a leak is actually condensation forming on the tank and dripping down.
While some of these issues are easy to spot, others may require a closer look by a professional.
What to Do First
If you see water pooling around your toilet, take the following steps:
- Shut Off the Water Supply: Look for the shut-off valve behind the toilet and turn it clockwise to stop the water.
- Clean Up the Water: Dry the area with towels or a mop so you can better see where the water is coming from.
- Check for Obvious Damage: Inspect the base of the toilet for cracks or loose bolts. Also, check if the toilet wobbles when you sit on it—this could signal a compromised wax seal.
- Don’t Use the Toilet: Avoid using the toilet until the issue is fixed to prevent further leakage and damage.
Why You Should Call the Peaden Pros
DIY fixes might seem tempting, but toilets are more complicated than they appear. Improper installation or misdiagnosis can lead to bigger problems down the road. That’s where the Peaden Pros come in. Our team is trained to quickly identify the source of the leak and recommend the best solution.
We can replace wax rings, tighten bolts, reseat toilets, or handle more complex repairs as needed. Most importantly, we ensure the job is done right the first time, protecting your home from future water damage.
Contact Peaden today to schedule a plumbing inspection or repair. We’re here to help you keep things flowing smoothly!