Why is my toilet loose from the floor & Fix a wobbly toilet?

My Kohler Elliston was rocky when I sat on it a year ago. For a while, I couldn’t figure out why does? It happens!

And the most annoying part was toilet leaks at the same time while rocking.

After a few inspections, I found out my toilet was loose from the floor and literally shaking from there.

I can guess you are facing the same problem right now. So don’t worry, do exactly what I did- no need for any plumber, no need to spend money.

Just follow simple steps, and you’ll be able to fix a loose toilet.

Before you jump to the fixation process, I like you to know the reasons for a wobbly toilet so you can fix it according to the cause.

Why is My Toilet Loose from the Floor

There are several reasons for a shaky base toilet. You should not avoid it.

1. The possible reason is the toilet anchor bolts are loose

Toilet anchor bolts are the most important ones. They hold the toilet to the floor and keep it from wobbling. 

Anchor bolts are made in such a way that we can simply drill holes and replace them in their original location.

If the toilet is used in the same way for many years, the bolts can become loose. Although, it is ancient and overused toilets.

If the toilet flange is more than 10 years old and has not been replaced in between; Then this problem is seen. 

2. The cause for a new toilet rocking back and forth is- the toilet is not bolted to the floor properly.

As I mentioned already, toilet bolts help the toilet stay steady. If your new toilet is rocking, 90% is responsible for poor installing or poor bolting.

While you or your hired plumber installed the toilet, it seems toilet anchor bolts are not correctly sealed as required, and now you’re experiencing this trouble.

3. My toilet Rocking When I Sit on it because of loose flange bolts

A toilet flange bolt is a metal fastener that helps to secure a toilet flange to the floor. The bolts are typically made of brass or stainless steel. They come in various lengths to accommodate different thicknesses of flooring material. 

Toilet flange bolts are responsible for conjunction with washers and nuts to create a tight seal between the flange and the floor.

If the Flange bolts are not properly sealed or damaged for some reason, the toilet becomes unstable. Each flush makes it more flimsy.

4. The possible cause for my toilet to loose from the floor is- Damage Toilet Flange.

A toilet flange is a drain pipe that extends out of the bottom of your toilet. 

It rests inside a floor-mounted, cylindrical metal ring called an “S” trap which prevents sewer gases from entering your home while still allowing used water to flow down into the septic or sewer system.

Your toilet flange is located above the floor drain. The flange is always in contact with toxic gases, water, so it is normal to damage a flange.

Damage Flange can cause the toilet to loose from the base.

5. Incorrectly installed Flange can Cause a New toilet to move side to side.

Installation of a toilet is very easy, but a small mistake can cause many nasty situations like shaking, leaking, etc.

You need to adjust it by either raising or lowering your toilet.

6. Corrode Anchor Bolts can Cause moving toilet

The bolts are designed to last for several years, depending on the environment in which they are installed. Like, if you live near the sea, saltwater can cause bolts to corrode quickly.

Corrosion in anchor bolts can occur as a result of- moisture from a leaking pipe, toilet, or drain, resulting in an unsteady toilet.

If an anchor bolt corrodes, it can lose its grip on the wall or floor. -This can cause the object it is holding to move, creating a safety hazard. 

The bolt can also rust and fall out of the hole, causing the object to fall and break.

If you have a corroded anchor bolt, it is crucial to replace the bolt as soon as possible. 

You should also inspect other corroded objects near the bolt and prevent them from rusting further.

To prevent corrosion of these bolts in the future, make sure there is proper ventilation where the bolts are placed. 

If moisture builds up in the region, use fans to lower moisture levels.

7. Sometimes, an uneven floor can cause a wobbly toilet.

Loose floor tiles, broken subflooring beneath tiled areas, and floors with “potholes” are the most prevalent causes of a wobbling toilet.

Water seepage through cracks in the floors beneath your bathroom can cause shifting and warping over time, which can lead to a wobbly toilet.

So these are the common causes of loose-rocking toilets. Now find out what the reason for your loose toilet is. And let’s fix it.

How to Fix A Loose Toilet

Fix according to cause-

How to Tighten Toilet Bolts

The most common reason for a toilet base to become loose is when the bolts that hold it in place come loose.

The first way to fix a loose toilet base is to tighten the bolts that hold it in place.

This can be done with a wrench or a socket set. The process is simple

1. Take the adjustable wrench or socket

2. Turn off the toilet’s water supply.

3. Flush the toilet to empty the bowl.

4. Disconnect the water supply line from the toilet.

5. Remove the bolts from the floor with a socket wrench.

6. Tighten the bolts with a socket wrench.

7. Reconnect the water supply line to the toilet.

8. Turn on the water supply to the toilet and check for any leaks or more wobbling.

How To Fix a Loose Toilet Flange

A loose toilet flange can be annoying. If you have a loose toilet flange, the very first thing you should do is clean up your mess and sanitize the area to prevent any further odors or mold growth.

To fix the loose Flange.

At first disconnect, the waterline and flush completely, Sponge out the remaining water by using an old rag.

1. Place the wrench over the nut on the flange and turn it counterclockwise to loosen it. Then, use a screwdriver to snoop the toilet off of the flange.

2. Once the toilet removes, you need to clean the flange. Clean up any debris or rust with a wire brush.

Examine the gasket for any damage as well. The gasket must be changed if it is damaged.

3. Use a plumber’s putty to seal it. Place the putty on the underside of the toilet and press it into the flange.

Allow some time to dry it and seal properly.

4. Now, reset the toilet again. Put the toilet in place and tighten the bolts using a wrench. 

Be sure to use a level to straighten before tightening the bolts.

If you see the flange is damaged, you need to change it immediately.

How to Fix A Rocking Toilet on Tile

If you have determined that your floor is the source of your toilet wobble, there are several possible solutions. 

1. If the floor is only loose in one area, you may be able to fix it by simply replacing the tile or repairing the damage to the subfloor.

2. If the floor is uneven or has developed potholes, you may need to level it out by installing a backer board or using a leveling compound.

3. If there is a gap between floor and toilet base using toilet sealant. Either Caulk or Silicone Sealant. (Check here details about Sealant)

Can a Loose Toilet Cause A Leak?

Yes. A loose toilet can produce a leak while also causing property damage.

While a loose toilet may not seem like a big deal, it can actually lead to some serious water leaks. 

If your toilet is rocking or wiggling around, it can cause gases to leak out from the bottom of your toilet and create a mess on the floor.

If you’re experiencing a water leak from your toilet. It is necessary to address the issue as soon as possible. 

Not only is this a significant inconvenience, but it can also lead to costly repairs down the road.

Read More- Things to note Before Buying any Toilet and its Parts

How to Fix a Loose Toilet Seat

There are several methods for repairing a loose toilet seat.

· The first way is to use a washer. 

· The second way is to use a bolt. 

· The third way is to use a screw.

Place any tool, just tightening the seat bolts. If the seat bolts get damaged, change with the new one.

Wrap Up On A Loose- Wobbly Toilet

If you find that your toilet is fluttering a little, think quickly about the cause and how to fix it.

A shaky toilet can cause a lot of damage. Stop using that toilet as soon as you know.

If you think you can’t do even one of the solutions I give, call your nearest plumbing mechanic.