Are waxless toilet seals a more reliable alternative to double wax rings for preventing toilet leaks like the one in your new 2019 toilet?
Asked by Oliver Poulsen 
6 months ago
Last Updated: May 12, 2024
Hey there! So we had a little issue with our toilet leaking, probably from the wax ring failing. Our toilet is pretty new, from 2019, and my husband thinks that’s what caused the problem. He’s learned to always use two wax rings to prevent this in the future. But I’ve seen these new waxless toilet seals on the market now. Do you think that could be a better option? I’m nervous about it happening again.
Consulting with a plumber is also a valuable option.
The wax rings continue to be commonly used, particularly the double thick kind
My contractor informed me that wax is the superior option because he has witnessed several cases of the waxless ones leaking 🤷🏽♀️
We experienced something similar and had a plumber fix it. We purchased those for him but he mentioned he didn’t have faith in them and wouldn’t utilize them. He claimed the wax ring was more dependable.
Those are the ones I stick with these days.
I’ve uninstalled more of those than I’ve put in.
Grab the jumbo wax ring and you should be all set.
I recently had a conversation with a plumber about these products. He mentioned that they are superior and much easier to install as well.
I work a lot with a guy who flips houses. He only buys and uses those ones. I have to say, they work really well. They create no mess, provide a good seal, and are easier to work with.
I would never use two wax rings. There are so many choices available, but first, make sure to measure the distance from the toilet bottom to the flange. Look into the options for that specific spacing. You can find extra thick wax rings, different types of spacers, and more.
Go with the new foam style unless there isn’t enough space between the toilet and flange.
The wax ring should be tall enough to create a proper seal, but taller isn’t always better. If the toilet isn’t level, any seal is in danger due to potential movement.
I’ve applied waxless twice. It worked great on both occasions and no leaks so far. Both times I used it to repair leaks and replaced the wax. Plus, no wax coming out of the bolt holes on the toilet’s side.
Plumbers stick to using wax rings, you won’t see any of those fancy “upgraded” products in their trucks.
I’ve tried out the Korky toilet seal on five toilets. It’s been about four years now and I haven’t had any leaks. One time, I had to remove and reinstall a toilet every day for a couple of weeks because it was the only one available. Surprisingly, it didn’t leak even without being bolted down. Just make sure the toilet sits slightly elevated on the foam. I usually buy two kits so I have more options for different gap sizes.
Waxless seals are amazing on toilets – it’s all I use now!
I once experienced a leak caused by my main line being collapsed. If you have access to a plumber with a camera, consider inviting them to inspect the issue as a precaution. However, I have always relied on the wax ring and nothing else.
Those Danco units are incredibly user-friendly and perform exceptionally well
My system has been up and running for over three years now without any problems.
Mentioned that our house is pretty old and had poorly installed flanges, but using the Danco brand really made a difference!
Opt for wax of good quality rather than opting for the cheaper alternative. Invest a few additional dollars. If the toilet is stable, the wax should last for many years.
Never reuse the wax ring. Install a high-quality ring properly and ensure it is securely fastened.
I suggest trying the Fluidmaster polyurethane ring. If you notice water again, it may be coming from the toilet.
I had the same issue and was able to solve it by using two wax rings. Make sure to use the thick one with the plastic flange/horn properly positioned in the pipe, and then add a thinner wax ring on top. Place the thin ring on top of the thick one at floor level, instead of following the box instructions that suggest attaching it to the bottom of the toilet. This will prevent anything from moving out of place when lowering the toilet during installation.
I like using the wax ring because it always feels right when I’m installing it. I haven’t had any issues with it.
I gave the blue one (fluidmaster) a try recently, and I’m quite happy with it. Everything seems to be going well so far.
I went with the red option, and my plumber was quite pleased when he noticed. He mentioned that it’s much easier to work with and of higher quality.
Hey there! I’m really sorry to hear about the leak situation. Your husband might be onto something with suspecting the wax ring as the culprit. While using two wax rings can sometimes fix the issue, it’s not foolproof and may create more problems if not done perfectly.
It’s been a solid 10 years using the foam style, on about 5 different toilets for myself, family, and friends. Haven’t regretted ditching that messy wax.
I’ve been using the superior alternative to wax in 4 toilets over the past few years. No leaks yet.
You weren’t doing anything out of the ordinary on the toilet, right?
Did a good job. We had my daughter’s baby shower a couple of months ago. My husband is concerned that all the heavy people using the toilet all day may have caused some damage or loosened it. It kind of makes sense since the toilet is mainly used by the kids, who aren’t very heavy. He might be right.
I was just kidding about Valentine’s Day, but that might be the reason for it too.
Oh man, ! I totally missed that!