A well-maintained bathroom is the cornerstone of a comfortable and hygienic home. Among the many crucial tasks involved in bathroom upkeep, sealing the toilet is often underestimated, yet it plays a pivotal role in preventing potential water damage and ensuring a clean, odour-free space.
In this guide, we will not only explore the compelling reasons why sealing around your toilet is an essential step, but also provide you with a step-by-step walkthrough on how to do it effectively.
Whether you're a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a first-time homeowner, understanding the importance of this task and knowing how to execute it properly will empower you to maintain a leak-free, functional bathroom.
Why You Should Seal Around The Base Of Your Toilet
Here are several compelling reasons why you should seal around the base of your toilet:
Strengthens Toilet:
Sealing around the base of your toilet provides a crucial layer of support, eliminating any potential wobbling or movement once the sealant sets. This stability is vital for maintaining a secure fixture, especially in high-traffic areas. Beyond immediate safety benefits, a firmly sealed toilet also extends the lifespan of the fixture, minimizing the need for costly repairs or replacements. By taking this simple step, you're not only safeguarding against leaks but also fortifying the overall strength and longevity of your bathroom's plumbing system.
Prevents Water Damage:
Water damage is one of the most common and costly issues homeowners face. When water seeps through the gaps around the toilet base, it can saturate the flooring materials, weaken structural supports, and even lead to mould growth. Over time, this can result in extensive and expensive repairs.
Maintains Hygiene:
An unsealed toilet base can collect water, dirt, and debris, creating a breeding ground for germs and bacteria. This can result in some very unpleasant odours, especially if you have a child that's prone to "missing the target" when going to the toilet. Proper sealing makes it easier to clean and disinfect the area.
Deters Pest Infestations:
Moisture is a powerful attractant for pests like ants, cockroaches, and silverfish. Without proper sealing, these insects may find their way into your bathroom in search of water sources. Sealing the base eliminates this source of moisture, making your bathroom less appealing to pests.
Enhances Aesthetic Appeal:
A neatly sealed toilet base provides a clean and finished appearance to your bathroom. It eliminates unsightly gaps or uneven spaces around the toilet, contributing to a more cohesive and visually appealing overall look.
By taking the time to properly seal the base of your toilet, you not only address immediate concerns but also invest in the long-term health and integrity of your bathroom and home as a whole.
What About Wall Mounted Or Back To Wall Toilets?
For back to wall toilets the same advice applies, except you should seal around the complete perimeter of the toilet, where it meets both the floor and the wall.
For wall mounted toilets, again seal the whole perimeter where it meets the wall.
What Tools Do You Need To Seal A Toilet?
Sealant Gun:
A sealant gun, also known as a caulking gun, is an essential tool for applying silicone sealant. It allows for controlled and precise dispensing of the sealant.
Sanitary Silicone:
This is the specific type of silicone sealant designed for use in wet and humid environments, such as bathrooms. It provides a flexible waterproof seal and is resistant to mould and mildew.
Related Article: The Best Silicone Sealant For Showers - Ultimate Guide (this also applies for Toilets)
Stanley Knife or Blade:
A sharp knife or blade is necessary for cutting the nozzle of the silicone tube to the desired size. This determines the thickness of the bead of sealant.
Silicone Smoothing Tool:
This tool is used to shape and smooth the sealant after it has been applied. It helps create a clean and professional finish.
Spray Bottle of Washing-up Liquid and Water:
This mixture acts as a lubricant for smoothing the silicone sealant, preventing it from sticking to the tool or smearing along any surfaces.
Kitchen Towel or Clean/Dry Cloth:
These are used for preparing the joints and for cleaning up any spills or smudges during the application process.
Bottle of Methylated Spirit:
Methylated spirit, also known as denatured alcohol, is used for cleaning and preparing the surfaces before applying the silicone sealant.
Having these tools ready and understanding their functions will greatly facilitate the silicone application process, leading to a more successful and professional-looking finish.
How To Seal Around A Toilet
Follow this step by step for a completely water tight, fully functioning toilet.
1) Prepare The Area
If the toilet has existing sealant already around the edge, this will need to be completely removed first before applying the new silicone.
See the following article for details on how to remove existing silicone sealant: How To Completely Remove Old Silicone Sealant - The Pro 4 Step Method
If its a newly installed toilet, add a small amount of methylated spirit to a cloth or piece of kitchen roll, and give the joints you are sealing a wipe. Ensure the joint's are completely dirt, grit and dust free and completely dry before moving on to the next step.
Why use methylated spirit?
The methylated spirit is not only a great cleaning and degreasing solution. But the residue evaporates almost immediately. This will ensure the joints are completely dry before applying the new silicone.
2) Load The Silicone Gun
Load the silicone sealant cartridge into the gun and cut the nozzle at a 45-degree angle. The size of the gap between the toilet and the floor will determine the thickness of the bead. Start with a small opening and enlarge it if needed.
3) Apply The Silicone Sealant
With the gun at a 45-degree angle, gently squeeze the trigger and move it steadily around the base of the toilet between the toilet and the floor.
Apply a continuous bead of sealant, ensuring full coverage. Use a consistent speed to maintain an even line.
4) Smooth The Sealant
After applying the sealant, spray the bead with the soapy water, this stops the sealant from smearing or sticking to stuff it shouldn't when tooling. Then use a silicone tool to smooth and shape the bead.
This ensures an even, professional-looking finish.
DO NOT lick your finger and smooth the sealant. The bacteria in your mouth can transfer to the sealant and cause premature mould growth. Also, it's disgusting!
5) Allow Sealant To Cure
Generally, it's recommended to let the silicone dry for at least 24 to 48 hours after applying the sealant.
During this period, the sealant undergoes a process of drying and curing. This ensures that it forms a strong, watertight barrier against any movement, dirt, debris or spillages. It's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions on the specific drying and curing times for the sealant you're using, as different products may have varying requirements.
Additionally, it's advisable to avoid using the toilet during this curing period to prevent any potential disruptions or damage to the freshly applied sealant.
Related Article: How Long Does Bathroom Silicone Take To Dry