Have you ever encountered that annoying rocking motion of your toilet? The culprit might be an uneven flooring underneath. Shimming a toilet is an effective way to stabilize it, ensuring a comfortable and firm stance. This simple yet crucial procedure can be easily accomplished with just a few basic tools.
Shimming involves placing thin, wedge-shaped pieces of material, typically plastic or wooden shims, between the base of the toilet and the floor. These shims compensate for any irregularities in the flooring, creating a level and stable surface for the toilet to rest upon. Additionally, shimming can prevent potential damage to the toilet bowl or tank due to excessive rocking or movement.
Before embarking on the shimming process, it is imperative to gather the necessary tools: a shim kit, a level, a wrench, and a hacksaw. Once equipped, carefully follow the step-by-step instructions provided in the subsequent sections to ensure proper execution. Remember to wear appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and eye protection, while working with sharp tools.
Identifying When Shimming Is Necessary
Shimming a toilet refers to the process of placing thin pieces of material, known as shims, underneath the base of the toilet to correct various issues. It is a relatively simple yet effective solution to address common problems such as rocking or uneven seating of the toilet bowl. However, it is essential to determine when shimming is indeed necessary before proceeding with this repair.
Visual Inspection
The initial step in identifying the need for shimming is a thorough visual inspection of the toilet. Look for signs of unevenness or rocking when applying pressure to the seat or lid. Ensure that the toilet is not loose or wobbling when pressed on either side. If any of these issues are present, it is a good indication that shimming may be required.
Floor Leveling
Another important factor to consider is the levelness of the floor underneath the toilet. Use a level or straight edge to check the flatness of the surface where the toilet is installed. If the floor is uneven, shims can be used to compensate for the variations and provide a more stable base for the toilet.
Plumber’s Eye View
If you are unsure whether shimming is necessary, seek the professional opinion of a plumber. They have the experience and tools to diagnose the problem accurately and recommend the appropriate solution. Consult with a plumber if you encounter any difficulties in assessing the need for shimming or if the issue persists after attempting to shim the toilet yourself.
Gathering the Necessary Tools and Materials
Tools:
- Wrench or adjustable pliers
- Hammer or mallet
- Level
- Pry bar (optional)
Materials:
- Shims (typically made of wood, plastic, or composite materials)
- Adhesive caulk (optional)
Choosing the Right Shims
Selecting the appropriate shims is crucial for successful toilet shimming. Consider the following factors:
Material: Wood shims are widely available and inexpensive, but they are prone to rotting if exposed to moisture. Plastic and composite shims are more durable and moisture-resistant.
Thickness: Shims are available in various thicknesses, ranging from 1/16 inch to 1/2 inch. Choose shims that are slightly thicker than the gaps you are trying to fill.
Size: Shims come in different sizes, including rectangular and wedge-shaped. Rectangular shims are easier to work with, while wedge-shaped shims can be used to fill gaps of varying widths.
| Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Wood | Inexpensive and readily available | Prone to rotting in moist environments |
| Plastic | Durable and moisture-resistant | More expensive than wood |
| Composite | Combines the benefits of wood and plastic | Can be more difficult to find |
Measuring and Marking the Shims
Once you have identified the location of the shims, you need to determine their thickness. This can be done using a feeler gauge or a shim gauge.
A feeler gauge is a set of thin metal blades of varying thicknesses. To use a feeler gauge, insert the blades between the toilet flange and the floor until you find the blade that fits most snugly. This will give you the thickness of the shim you need.
A shim gauge is a small tool that has a series of notches of varying widths. To use a shim gauge, place the gauge on the floor and insert the toilet flange into the notch that fits most snugly. This will give you the thickness of the shim you need.
Once you have determined the thickness of the shims you need, you need to mark their location on the floor. To do this, place the shims in the desired location and mark their outline with a pencil or chalk. You can then remove the shims and cut them to the desired size.
Shim Thickness Guide
The following table provides a general guide to the thickness of shims that are commonly used for shimming toilets:
| Shim Thickness | Application |
|---|---|
| 1/16 inch | Minor adjustments |
| 1/8 inch | Moderate adjustments |
| 1/4 inch | Major adjustments |
It is important to note that the actual thickness of the shims you need may vary depending on the specific situation. Always consult with a qualified plumber if you are unsure about the thickness of the shims you need.
Cutting the Shims to Size
Once you have measured the space between the toilet and the floor, you can cut the shims to size. Shims are typically made of wood and are thin and wedge-shaped. You will need to cut them to the correct length and width so that they fit snugly between the toilet and the floor. To do this, first make a mark on the shim where you need to cut it. Then, use a sharp knife or saw to cut the shim to size. Be sure to cut the shim at a slight angle so that it will fit snugly against the toilet and the floor.
The table below shows the steps involved in cutting the shims to size.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Measure the space between the toilet and the floor. |
| 2 | Mark the shim where you need to cut it. |
| 3 | Use a sharp knife or saw to cut the shim to size. |
| 4 | Cut the shim at a slight angle so that it will fit snugly against the toilet and the floor. |
Applying Shims to the Toilet Base
Once you have determined the proper thickness of shims needed, you can begin the process of applying them to the toilet base.
-
Remove the Toilet Seat and Lid
Start by removing the toilet seat and lid to gain access to the base of the toilet.
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Clean the Base
Use a clean cloth or sponge to wipe away any dirt or debris from the base of the toilet. This will help ensure that the shims adhere properly.
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Apply Shims to the Front Bolts
Place the shims under the front bolts of the toilet base, making sure that they are evenly distributed. You may need to use multiple shims to achieve the desired height.
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Install the Toilet
Once the shims are in place, carefully lift the toilet back onto the base and align the bolts with the holes in the toilet flange. Tighten the nuts on the bolts until the toilet is secure.
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Check for Level
Use a level to check if the toilet is level from front to back and side to side. If necessary, adjust the shims or tighten the bolts further to achieve a level installation.
Helpful Tips for Applying Shims:
- Use durable shims that are resistant to moisture and wear.
- Avoid overtightening the bolts, as this can damage the toilet or the floor.
- If the toilet is still rocking after shimming, you may need to check for other issues, such as a loose wax ring or uneven flooring.
| Shims Type | Material | Thickness |
|---|---|---|
| Rubber | Rubber | 1/16 inch to 1/2 inch |
| Plastic | Plastic | 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch |
| Wooden | Wood | 1/8 inch to 1/2 inch |
| Metal | Metal | 1/16 inch to 1/4 inch |
Securing the Shims in Place
Once you’ve inserted the shims, it’s crucial to secure them in place to ensure they don’t shift or come loose over time. Here’s how to do it:
6. Grout or Sealant
For a more permanent and water-resistant solution, consider using grout or sealant to secure the shims. Apply the grout or sealant along the edges of the shims, where they meet the floor or base of the toilet. Use a putty knife or your finger to spread it evenly and fill any gaps.
Allow the grout or sealant to dry and cure completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will create a strong bond between the shims and the surrounding surfaces, preventing them from moving or becoming dislodged.
| Grout | Sealant |
|---|---|
| More permanent | Less permanent but easier to remove |
| Water-resistant | Not as water-resistant |
| Requires longer drying time | Dries faster |
Leveling the Toilet
To level the toilet, you will need a level and a shim. A level is a tool that helps you determine if something is level, and a shim is a thin piece of material that can be used to raise or lower one side of the toilet.
To use a level, simply place it on the rim of the toilet bowl and check to see if the bubble is centered. If the bubble is not centered, the toilet is not level. To level the toilet, use a shim to raise or lower one side of the toilet base. Once the toilet is level, tighten the bolts that hold the toilet to the floor.
Here are some additional tips for leveling a toilet:
Use a level that is long enough to reach across the entire rim of the toilet bowl.
– If the toilet is not level, use a shim to raise or lower one side of the toilet base.
– Tighten the bolts that hold the toilet to the floor once the toilet is level.
– If you are unsure how to level a toilet, consult a professional plumber.
Additional Information
| Symptom | Possible Cause |
|---|---|
| Toilet rocks back and forth | Toilet is not level. |
| Water pools around the base of the toilet | Toilet is not level. |
| Toilet leaks from the base | Toilet is not level. |
Reattaching the Toilet to the Floor
Once the new shims are in place, you can reattach the toilet to the floor. To do this, follow these steps:
1. Lower the toilet bowl onto the wax ring. Make sure that the bowl is properly aligned with the flange.
2. Tighten the closet bolts by hand until they are snug.
3. Use a wrench to tighten the closet bolts further. Be careful not to overtighten the bolts, as this can crack the toilet bowl or the floor.
4. Once the closet bolts are tightened, caulk around the base of the toilet bowl to seal it against water leaks.
5. Replace the toilet seat and lid.
6. Turn on the water supply to the toilet and check for leaks.
7. If there are no leaks, your toilet is now successfully shimmed and reattached to the floor.
8. Here are some additional tips for reattaching the toilet to the floor:
| Tip | Reason |
|---|---|
| Use a level to make sure that the toilet is level before tightening the closet bolts. | A level toilet will help to prevent leaks and ensure that the toilet is comfortable to use. |
| Apply a bead of silicone caulk around the base of the toilet bowl before tightening the closet bolts. | Silicone caulk will help to seal the toilet bowl against water leaks. |
| Tighten the closet bolts evenly. | Tightening the closet bolts evenly will help to prevent the toilet from rocking or leaking. |
Grouting Around the Base
Grouting around the base of the toilet is an important step in ensuring that it is securely installed and free from leaks. The grout should be applied evenly around the base of the toilet, filling in any gaps between the toilet and the floor. This will help to create a watertight seal, preventing water from leaking from underneath the toilet.
To grout around the base of the toilet, you will need to gather the following materials:
- Grout
- Grout float
- Sponge
- Bucket of water
Once you have gathered your materials, follow these steps to grout around the base of the toilet:
- Clean the area around the base of the toilet. This will remove any dirt or debris that could interfere with the adhesion of the grout.
- Mix the grout according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Apply the grout to the base of the toilet using a grout float. Be sure to work the grout into all of the gaps between the toilet and the floor.
- Smooth the grout with the grout float to create a level surface.
- Wipe away any excess grout from the surface of the toilet and the floor using a sponge.
- Allow the grout to dry completely. This may take several hours or overnight.
Testing the Toilet for Stability
To ensure the toilet’s stability, follow these steps:
- Check for Rock: Gently rock the toilet from side to side and back and forth. There should be no significant movement or rocking.
- Lean and Press: Lean your weight on the top of the tank and press down. The toilet should not move or tilt.
- Sit and Shift: Sit on the toilet and shift your weight from side to side and front to back. The toilet should remain stable and not tilt.
- Fill the Tank: Flush the toilet to fill the tank. As the tank fills, check for any movement, rocking, or tilting.
- Wait and Re-test: Allow the toilet to sit for several hours or overnight to let the shims settle. Re-test the stability by following steps 1-4.
If the toilet is still unstable after shimming, you may need to reposition the shims or add more shims.
Warning: If the toilet is not stable, it could cause damage to the floor or cause the toilet to leak or fall over.
Here is a checklist you can use to ensure a stable toilet:
| Test | Stable Result |
|---|---|
| Side-to-side rocking | No movement |
| Back-and-forth rocking | No movement |
| Leaning on tank | No tilting or movement |
| Sitting and shifting weight | No tilting or movement |
| Tank filling | No movement or rocking |
How To Shim A Toilet
Shimming a toilet is a simple and cost-effective way to correct minor rocking or wobbling. It can also be used to level a toilet that is not sitting evenly on the floor. Shims are thin, wedge-shaped pieces of material that are placed under the toilet base to create a level and stable surface.
To shim a toilet, you will need the following materials:
- Shims (plastic or wooden)
- Wrench or adjustable wrench
- Level
- Caulk gun (optional)
Once you have gathered your materials, follow these steps:
- Turn off the water supply to the toilet.
- Flush the toilet to empty the tank and bowl.
- Disconnect the water supply line from the toilet.
- Loosen the nuts that hold the toilet to the floor.
- Carefully lift the toilet off the floor and set it aside.
- Place shims under the toilet base, starting with the thickest shims in the areas where the toilet is rocking or wobbling.
- Use a level to check the toilet for levelness. Adjust the shims as needed until the toilet is level.
- Tighten the nuts that hold the toilet to the floor.
- Reconnect the water supply line to the toilet.
- Turn on the water supply and check for leaks.
- Apply a bead of caulk around the base of the toilet to seal any gaps and prevent leaks.
Your toilet is now shimmed and should be stable and level.
People Also Ask
How do I know if my toilet needs to be shimmed?
If your toilet is rocking, wobbling, or not sitting evenly on the floor, it may need to be shimmed.
What type of shims should I use?
Plastic or wooden shims can be used to shim a toilet. Plastic shims are thinner and more flexible than wooden shims, making them easier to work with in tight spaces.
How thick should the shims be?
The thickness of the shims will depend on the amount of leveling that is needed. Start with the thickest shims and then gradually reduce the thickness until the toilet is level.
Should I caulk around the base of the toilet after shimming?
Yes, it is a good idea to apply a bead of caulk around the base of the toilet after shimming to seal any gaps and prevent leaks.
