A toilet wax ring is often overlooked, yet pivotal for a toilet’s maintenance. This strip of wax works to seal the toilet from the floor, which prevents leakage from the toilet, ensuring a smooth function without any hitches. But how long does a toilet wax ring last? This article sheds light on the duration toilet wax rings last, factors that influence their longevity, and ways to achieve a lasting seal.
Understanding the Lifespan of a Toilet Wax Ring
A toilet wax ring has a varying lifespan which is influenced by numerous factors. These include the quality of the wax used, the conditions of the toilet installation, and even external factors such as the overall environment. A toilet wax ring can last anywhere between 10 to 30 years. While cheaper replacements regularly need to be purchased, higher quality products tend to last longer and therefore, prove to be a better long term investment. In addition, regular maintenance enhances the longevity of the wax ring.
Important Considerations Regarding Toilet Wax Rings’ Durability
There are a few things that can determine how long a toilet wax ring will last. The very first one is the consistency of the wax. The best wax rings tend to include compounds that help hold up to moisture and extreme temperatures. The second one is how the installation is done. If the installation is done wrong, it can lead to the wear and tear of the device. Lastly, other external factors such as the relative humidity and temperature can have an effect on the duration of the ring.
Symptoms Indicating Your Wax Ring is Due For a Replacement
Every toilet user should be vigilant of the toilet wax ring’s symptoms that indicate it is due for a replacement. Some of the symptoms are water accumulating on the toilet’s base, a bad smell, and the toilet seeming too loose. If these are the signs you have, then you are in luck because, with early intervention, it’s possible to mitigate the damages that will attract expensive maintenance costs.
Replacing a Toilet Wax Ring
To replace a toilet wax ring, you will need basic tools. Remember, you need to switch off the water supply and drain the toilet tank first. After removing the toilet, make sure to clean the old wax ring off the flange. Put a new wax ring on the flange before re-installing the toilet. Make sure that the toilet is leveled and bolted properly to prevent leaks.
Industry Trends and Innovations
New technologies and materials are constantly being developed to improve wax rings and the plumbing industry. Homeowners who want sustainable options often prefer these biodegradable wax rings, and wax rings with built-in seals. Learning about these trends is helpful so that you can choose the right solutions for your plumbing updates.
To conclude, a toilet wax ring can last quite a long time, but the quality, installation, and other factors such as the environment have a big influence on the longevity. If you replace the toilet and keep an eye on potential issues, the toilet will last for a long time.