how to repair a cracked ceramic toilet tank

How to Fix a Cracked Toilet Tank

1. Turn Off the Water First thing’s first, turn the water off so that no more water can go into the tank. ...
2. Seal the Crack Next, you need to find the appropriate epoxy that is waterproof and made for porcelain or ceramic toilets. ...
3. Smooth the Epoxy and Let It Dry

Full Answer

What's the best way to seal a cracked toilet tank?

Fixing a Cracked Toilet Tank

1. Turn off the water. Although you can opt to skip this step when you don't find water leaking, it's still advisable to turn the water off.
2. Dry the inside of the tank. You will need to apply a sealer to your tank to fix the cracks and if the area is wet, the sealer won't ...
3. Apply silicone plumbing epoxy to cracked area. ...
4. Smooth the sealer out. ...

More items...

Is there anyway to repair a cracked toilet tank?

To fix a cracked toilet tank, you have to clean the repair area thoroughly by draining the water, drying the tank, and sanding the affected area. Then, apply a waterproof epoxy or sealant, wait for it to cure, and finally refill the tank to see if the leak is fixed.

Can I repair/seal a crack in a toilet tank?

If you have a hairline crack in the tank or the bowl, experts say you may be able to stop the leak by sealing the crack with waterproof epoxy . Epoxy can also be effective for cracks at the base of the toilet, such as cracks or breakage around the bolts that secure the toilet to the floor.

How can I repair a crack in my toilet tank?

That said, here are the materials you will be needing for fixing your toilet tank:

• Waterproof Silicone Plumbing Epoxy
• Caulking Gun
• Putty Knife
• Chamois Cloths, Towels, Sponges
• Electric Hair Dryer

Can you fix porcelain toilets?

You can seal hairline cracks in a porcelain toilet with epoxy putty or some other kind of sealant.

How many years should a toilet last?

A good-quality toilet can last up to 50 years if taken care of properly, but realistically, a toilet will last around 10-15 years.

Can you replace just the tank of a toilet?

It depends on the kind of toilet. Some let you disconnect the tank from the bowl, and others do not. If you can disconnect the tank, then you can o...

How much should it cost to replace a toilet?

It depends on the severity of the damage, but it can cost anywhere between $50-$300 to fix a toilet.

Can Flex Seal fix a cracked toilet tank?

Yes, Flex Seal can be used to fix cracks around a toilet tank and bowl if they are just small hairline fractures. It will not be able to fix larger...

What do you do with old toilets?

You can throw it away in the dumpster, or you can donate it to a charity organization so they can restore and reuse it.

What to do if you spot a crack in your toilet tank?

If you spot a toilet crack in the tank, mark it and keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn't get any worse. It can be useful to take a picture of the crack for later comparison. A crack that is below the water level will have to be fixed. Unfortunately, a toilet tank crack can be hard to spot.

How to tell if toilet tank is cracked?

Finding Cracks in a Toilet Tank 1 A crack above the water level is usually not a problem unless the crack grows slowly. If you spot a toilet crack in the tank, mark it and keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn't get any worse. It can be useful to take a picture of the crack for later comparison. 2 A crack that is below the water level will have to be fixed. Unfortunately, a toilet tank crack can be hard to spot. If you suspect a leak from the toilet tank, start by checking the seals between the tank and the bowl. Next, check the tank carefully for a crack in the porcelain. You may have to look both on the outside and the inside of the tank to see it.

How to stop a hairline leak in a toilet?

If you have a hairline crack in the tank or the bowl, experts say you may be able to stop the leak by sealing the crack with waterproof epoxy. Epoxy can also be effective for cracks at the base of the toilet, such as cracks or breakage around the bolts that secure the toilet to the floor. Cracks under the water line in a toilet bowl are more ...

What does it mean when you find water in the toilet bowl?

If you find water on the floor near the toilet, a leak in the bowl is a possibility. Keep in mind that water may leak only occur when you flush the toilet, so flush while you check around the bowl for the crack that is causing the leak. Cracks in a toilet bowl can be difficult to identify, so it is a good idea to check for cracks on a regular basis.

How do you know if a toilet is cracked?

When the toilet crack is visible in the part of the bowl that retains water, you'll probably need to replace the toilet. An invisible crack is also a possibility, and it can be indicated by two different symptoms: standing water on the floor outside of the toilet, or missing water. Experts note that a small invisible leak can cause water ...

How to check for leaks in toilet?

Open the shutoff valve to the toilet by turning its handle all the way counterclockwise. Let the toilet tank refill, then flush the toilet and check for leaks.

Why is my toilet cracking?

A cracked toilet can be a perplexing plumbing problem because the cracks are not always easy to spot. In some cases, the crack may have occurred when the toilet was first manufactured but does not surface for many years. Other times, a toilet can mysteriously develop a crack at any time and start leaking. More obvious cracking can occur due ...

Why does my toilet tank crack?

Toilet cracks can be caused by many things, but most commonly are a result of: The most common reason a toilet tank cracks is due to wear and tear from ageing. A modern toilet can last up to 50 years if maintained properly, but it will stick chip and crack from age over time.

How to tell if a toilet has a crack?

The easiest way to identify whether your toilet has a crack in it is the presence of pools of water on the floor near the toilet. Below Water Level Cracks. If a crack is below the water level, it will be fairly noticeable as you should be able to see the leak.

How to Tell if Your Toilet Bowl is Beyond Fixing?

If cracks are small enough, then they should not be too difficult to fix, and they should not greatly affect toilet performance. The larger a crack is, the harder it will be to repair and seal with epoxy.

Why is it hard to spot a crack in the toilet bowl?

Above Water Level Cracks. Above water level cracks can be hard to spot because they might not leak. If they are in a spot that is far enough away from water, you might be able to leave them alone for now, but keep an eye on them. Another symptom of a crack in the toilet bowl could be missing water from the tank or bowl.

Why are there cracks in my water tank?

Cracks that are below the water level in the tank will be very easy to spot because they will leak water onto the floors. These cracks are very serious and need to be taken care of immediately as they can leak dirty water on your floor. Above water level cracks in the bowl are more or less the same as in the tank.

How long does a toilet last?

A modern toilet can last up to 50 years if maintained properly, but it will stick chip and crack from age over time. Impacts with other hard objects like cabinets can also cause cracks in the toilet tank material.

What to do if your water tank is leaking?

2. Next, flush the tank to remove any excess water and mop up any remaining water in the bowl and tank with some towels or sponges.

What Would Cause a Toilet Tank To Crack?

A toilet tank may crack because of several reasons, including the ones discussed below.

Why is there a crack in my toilet bowl?

While it's apparent that you have identified a crack in your toilet bowl (probably caused by hitting the bowl hard with a toilet flange plunger), there might be other cracks you haven't spotted yet. Other than an openly visible crack, a toilet leak or mysterious water loss in the tank indicates cracks.

How long does a toilet tank last?

Although manufacturers and plumbers agree that the average toilet lasts as many as 50 years, toilet bowls and tanks are prone to cracking, which may necessitate replacements. The good news is that you don’t have to do a replacement if you know how to fix a cracked toilet tank. Fixing a cracked toilet tank doesn't have to be hard or as risky as some ...

How to seal a water tank with epoxy?

5.1 Step 1: Locate all the Cracks. 5.2 Step 2: Turn Off the Water. 5.3 Step 3: Dry Both on the Inside and Outside of the Tank. 5.4 Step 4: Apply the Waterproof Epoxy to the Cracked Area. 5.5 Step 5: Smooth Out the Seal er.

How long does epoxy need to dry before sealing?

Allow the applied epoxy or sealer to rest for 24-30 hours until it is completely dry. Then, use soft sandpaper to sand the surface lightly to smooth and remove any excess sealant.

Can you repair a hairline in a toilet tank?

You don’t even have to be a plumber to do a simple toilet tank repair. Nor do you need to call in a plumber.

Can you drop the lid of a toilet when replacing it?

Other times, you might drop the toilet tank lid when replacing it, causing the tank to break. Old age: Despite the 50-year durability guarantee on most toilets, age usually weakens them and may lead to a cracked toilet bowl or tank if you disturb the toilet excessively.

How to fix a crack in a water tank?

1. Turn off the water supply shutoff valve. Flush the tank and allow the tank to dry completely for several hours. If the crack is in the lower part of the tank, soak up the remaining water with an old towel and allow the tank to dry.

Why is my toilet tank chipping?

A common problem is chipping or breaking of a piece off the toilet tank if the tank lid is accidentally dropped. Epoxy engineered for use on ceramic can be used to reattach the broken piece. Pigment can be added to the epoxy to make the repair less noticeable, although it never will be invisible.

How to clean cracks in a concrete slab?

Brush away dust and debris along the porous edge of the crack. The edge and surrounding area must be totally clean.

Can you repair a toilet bowl with epoxy?

Do not attempt to repair the toilet bowl itself with an epoxy repair kit. There is too much stress on the bowl when sitting. Emrah Oruc is a general contractor, freelance writer and former race-car mechanic who has written professionally since 2000.

How to Fix a Cracked Toilet Tank

Accidents can lead to cracked toilet tanks from time to time. When reattaching the lid, you dropped a heavy object on the tank. This problem can be corrected without the help of a professional by following these steps.

How to find cracks in toilet tank

Cracks may appear on the inside and outside of a toilet tank, as well as in the bottom of the tank. What needs to be done depends on the location of the crack. Read on to find out what to do.

Takeaway

The design of your toilet is probably not something you’ve paid much attention to, but when water starts leaking out, you should pay attention. A complete guide on how to fix a cracked toilet tank is the best way to deal with such a situation.

How to fix cracks in porcelain?

Identify the end of the crack that is the widest. Drill a hole all the way through the porcelain surface. Spray the rotary tool bit with water periodically to keep it lubricated while drilling. This hole will relieve the pressure on the crack and keep it from getting larger.

Can epoxy be mixed with porcelain?

Depending on your epoxy, it will either come premixed or you will have to follow the manufacturer's instructions to mix it during the repair. Apply the paste into the channel that you drilled. The final level of the epoxy should be slightly above the surface of the porcelain.

Can porcelain toilets crack?

Although porcelain is a hard substance, it is not immune to chips or cracks. Sansone notes that some cracks are caused by impacts from something falling and hitting the toilet; other cracks may simply form as a function of a toilet's age. You can repair some porcelain toilet cracks, particularly those that form a well-defined line.

Can Hunker repair a crack in a toilet?

Hunker may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. You can repair a crack in a porcelain toilet. Image Credit: adamkaz/iStock/GettyImages. Toilets and other bathroom fixtures are commonly made of porcelain, which is formed of clay and other materials.

What happens if you crack a toilet tank?

A hairline crack below the tank’s water level can widen due to water pressure and result in a leak, leading to severe damage to the house and property. Even a small, innocuous crack can pose a risk over time if not repaired.

Why does my toilet tank crack?

What causes toilet tank cracks. The most common causes of hairline cracks are impact, age, and accidents. While tanks are generally sturdy, an impact with a heavy object or a person can cause a small hairline crack that expands over time. Additionally, as the toilet tank ages, cracks can appear by themselves, usually due to slight imperfections in ...

How to keep toilet sealant from drying out?

Water prevents the sealant from drying out. Dry out the tank with a cloth or a towel. We recommend wiping down the outside of the tank to prevent condensation. Fill the crack with the putty or epoxy. Use the putty knife to smoothen the surface of the toilet tank. Leave the epoxy to dry out for at least 24 hours.

How long does epoxy take to dry?

Leave the epoxy to dry out for at least 24 hours. Plumber’s putty is more generous since it dries faster. However, it never dries out completely, making it harder to spot when it’s safe to use the toilet again. Read the recommended waiting time on the sealant being used.

How long do toilets last?

Thankfully, toilets and toilet tanks are built to be sturdy and durable. A quality toilet will last for years with no issues. However, cracks in the toilet tank can appear over time, no matter what precautionary measures are taken to prevent them.

Can a crack above the waterline be repaired?

Even a small, innocuous crack can pose a risk over time if not repaired. For cracks above the waterline, it’s best to measure them regularly. Consider drawing a line on the crack to mark its progress.

Can you fix a hairline crack on your own?

For significant faults, a professional will perform a high-quality job, but smaller cracks are relatively easy to fix on your own. Hairline cracks can differ in severity, and it’s essential to know as much as possible before attempting to fix them.

What adhesive is used to fix a cracked toilet base?

One appropriate adhesive choice for the cracked toilet base is two-part epoxy. Epoxy is a thermosetting resin that, mixed with a hardener, forms a tough bond that will keep the break sealed up. It will also be resistant to water, which is an obvious concern around a toilet. To ensure the epoxy that bonds with porcelain, ...

What happens if a toilet base is broken?

If the broken toilet base is not properly glued back together, when the base shifts under a user's weight, or when the toilet is otherwise moved due to the broken base, the seal created by the wax ring can easily be broken also. This allows both water and sewer gases into the room. The water can damage the flooring around the toilet, ...

How to bond epoxy to porcelain?

Advertisement. Wipe all debris and water off the toilet base using a clean, dry rag . Thoroughly stir and mix the epoxy, according to the instructions, apply generous amounts to both sides of the crack, join them ...

Can you use silicone caulk on a toilet?

Don't Use Silicone Caulk. Although you might initially consider silicone caulk to seal the broken toilet base, it won't provide the long-term success that epoxy and polyurethane glue provide. The advantage of epoxy is the bonding strength it provides. Yes, silicone caulk might both provide an adhesive seal against water leaking through the crack , ...

Can you glue a toilet base back together?

If the toilet base is not too damaged, you may be able glue it back together, but before you can do that, you'll probably have to widen the crack. Without doing that, there's no way to get the glue where you need it to go. Prepare for disappointment, because the porcelain could shatter into small pieces, and if that happens, ...

Can you fix a porcelain toilet?

Image Credit: belchonock/iStock/GettyImages. When you tighten the nuts onto the closet bolts that hold the base of a toilet secure, avoid over tightening or you can easily crack the porcelain toilet. It might not seem as bad as a crack to another toilet part, such as the tank, but it still can lead to leaking.

Is it safe to replace a cracked toilet?

Don't feel bad...that's what you probably should do anyway, because replacing a cracked toilet is safer than gluing it.