How to Fix a Cracked Toilet Tank (Step-by-Step Guide)

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How to Fix a Cracked Toilet Tank

A cracked toilet tank is a common problem that can be both unsightly and inconvenient. Fortunately, it’s a relatively easy fix that can be completed in just a few steps. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of repairing a cracked toilet tank, from start to finish.

We’ll provide you with all the information you need to know, including the tools and materials you’ll need, as well as step-by-step instructions. By the end of this article, you’ll be able to fix your cracked toilet tank like a pro.

So if you’re ready to get started, let’s get cracking!

Step Materials Instructions
1 Pliers, screwdriver, bucket, replacement tank Turn off the water supply to the toilet.
Remove the lid of the toilet tank.
Remove the nuts holding the tank to the bowl.
Carefully lower the tank to the floor.
Remove the old tank.
Install the new tank.
Reattach the nuts to the tank.
Turn on the water supply to the toilet.
2 Epoxy putty, sandpaper, gloves Apply a layer of epoxy putty to the inside of the crack.
Allow the putty to dry completely.
Sand the crack smooth.
Apply a second layer of epoxy putty.
Allow the putty to dry completely.
Sand the crack smooth again.
3 New toilet tank kit Follow the instructions included with the new tank kit to install it.

Identifying the Crack

The first step to fixing a cracked toilet tank is to identify the crack. This may seem like a simple task, but it’s important to be thorough in order to ensure that you’re addressing the problem correctly.

Here are a few things to look for:

  • A visible crack in the tank. This is the most obvious sign of a crack, and it’s usually easy to spot. However, it’s important to note that not all cracks are visible.
  • A leak from the tank. If you see water leaking from the tank, it’s a good indication that there’s a crack. However, it’s also possible for a leak to be caused by a faulty gasket or other problem.
  • A change in the sound of the toilet flushing. If your toilet is making a different sound when it flushes, it could be a sign of a crack. This is because the crack can allow air to escape into the tank, which can change the way the toilet flushes.

If you’re not sure whether you have a crack in your toilet tank, it’s best to have a professional take a look.

How to Distinguish Between a Crack and a Leak

It’s important to be able to distinguish between a crack and a leak in your toilet tank. This is because the two problems require different solutions.

A crack is a break in the porcelain of the tank. It can be caused by a number of things, such as:

  • Sudden temperature changes. When you flush the toilet, the water in the tank heats up quickly. This can cause the porcelain to expand and contract, which can eventually lead to a crack.
  • Chemical damage. Some cleaning products can damage the porcelain in your toilet tank. If you use harsh chemicals to clean your toilet, be sure to rinse it thoroughly afterwards.
  • Physical damage. If you drop something heavy on your toilet tank, it can cause a crack.

A leak is a problem with the seal between the tank and the bowl. It can be caused by a number of things, such as:

  • A worn-out gasket. The gasket is a rubber ring that seals the tank and the bowl together. If the gasket is worn out, it can allow water to leak out.
  • A loose connection. The tank and the bowl are connected by a series of bolts. If these bolts are loose, they can allow water to leak out.
  • A damaged bowl. If the bowl is cracked or chipped, it can allow water to leak out.

If you’re not sure whether you have a crack or a leak in your toilet tank, it’s best to have a professional take a look.

Getting the Tools and Materials You Need

To fix a cracked toilet tank, you’ll need the following tools and materials:

  • A screwdriver
  • A putty knife
  • A hammer
  • A chisel
  • A new toilet tank gasket
  • A new toilet tank bolt kit
  • Plumbing putty
  • Silicone sealant

Replacing the Toilet Tank Gasket

The toilet tank gasket is a rubber ring that seals the tank and the bowl together. If the gasket is worn out or damaged, it can allow water to leak out.

To replace the toilet tank gasket, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the water supply to the toilet.
2. Flush the toilet to drain the water from the tank.
3. Remove the old gasket.
4. Apply a thin layer of plumber’s putty around the edge of the new gasket.
5. Insert the new gasket into the tank.
6. Secure the gasket with the toilet tank bolts.
7. Turn on the water supply to the toilet.
8. Flush the toilet to test the new gasket.

Replacing the Toilet Tank Bolts

The toilet tank bolts are a series of bolts that connect the tank and the bowl together. If the bolts are loose, they can allow water to leak out.

To replace the toilet tank bolts, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the water supply to the toilet.
2. Flush the toilet to drain the water from the tank.
3. Remove the old bolts.
4. Insert the new bolts into the tank.
5. Secure the bolts with a wrench.
6. Turn on the water supply to the toilet.
7. Flush the toilet to test the new bolts.

Replacing a cracked toilet tank is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. By following the steps in this guide, you can save yourself time and money by doing the job

3. Repairing the Crack

Steps to Take

To repair a cracked toilet tank, you will need the following materials:

  • A new toilet tank lid
  • A replacement toilet tank gasket
  • A putty knife
  • A silicone sealant
  • A drill
  • A 1/4-inch drill bit
  • A screwdriver
  • A hammer
  • Safety glasses
  • Work gloves

Once you have gathered your materials, follow these steps to repair the crack:

1. Turn off the water supply to the toilet.
2. Remove the toilet tank lid.
3. Locate the crack in the tank.
4. Use the putty knife to clean the crack of any debris.
5. Apply a bead of silicone sealant around the crack.
6. Press the new toilet tank gasket into place.
7. Replace the toilet tank lid.
8. Turn on the water supply to the toilet.

Tips for Success

  • Make sure that the crack is completely clean before applying the silicone sealant.
  • Use a generous amount of silicone sealant to ensure that the crack is completely sealed.
  • Press the toilet tank gasket firmly into place to ensure that it is properly sealed.
  • Replace the toilet tank lid and turn on the water supply to the toilet.

4. Testing the Repair

To test the repair, flush the toilet. If there is no water leaking from the crack, the repair was successful. If there is still water leaking from the crack, you will need to repeat the repair steps.

What to Do if the Repair Fails

If the repair fails, you may need to replace the toilet tank. To replace the toilet tank, you will need to:

1. Remove the toilet from the toilet bowl.
2. Remove the old toilet tank.
3. Install the new toilet tank.
4. Reattach the toilet to the toilet bowl.

Replacing a toilet tank is a relatively simple task, but it is important to follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging the toilet.

Repairing a cracked toilet tank is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. By following the steps in this guide, you can easily fix your cracked toilet tank and restore it to its former glory.

Additional Tips

  • If you are not comfortable repairing your own toilet tank, you can always hire a professional plumber to do the job for you.
  • When purchasing a new toilet tank lid, be sure to choose one that is made from a durable material such as plastic or fiberglass. This will help to prevent the lid from cracking again in the future.
  • If you live in an area with hard water, you may want to consider using a water softener to reduce the amount of minerals in your water. This will help to prevent the toilet tank from developing cracks.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your toilet tank in good condition and prevent it from cracking in the future.

How do I fix a cracked toilet tank?

1. Turn off the water supply to the toilet. This is usually located under the sink or behind the toilet.
2. Remove the lid of the toilet tank. There will be two bolts on the back of the tank that hold the lid in place. Unscrew these bolts and lift off the lid.
3. Locate the crack in the tank. The crack will usually be on the side of the tank, near the bottom.
4. Apply a sealant to the crack. You can use a silicone sealant or a bathtub repair kit. Be sure to follow the directions on the product label.
5. Allow the sealant to dry completely. This may take several hours.
6. Reattach the lid of the toilet tank. Screw the two bolts back into place and replace the lid.
7. Turn the water supply back on to the toilet.

What if the crack is too large for a sealant?

If the crack is too large for a sealant, you will need to replace the toilet tank. You can purchase a new toilet tank at most hardware stores.

How do I prevent a toilet tank from cracking?

There are a few things you can do to prevent a toilet tank from cracking:

  • Don’t drop anything heavy into the toilet tank. This can cause the tank to crack.
  • Don’t overfill the toilet tank. When the tank is full, the water level is too high and can put stress on the tank.
  • Keep the toilet tank clean. A dirty toilet tank can harbor bacteria that can damage the tank.
  • Inspect the toilet tank regularly for cracks. If you see a crack, fix it immediately.

What are the signs of a cracked toilet tank?

There are a few signs that you may have a cracked toilet tank:

  • Water leaking from the bottom of the toilet tank. This is the most obvious sign of a cracked tank.
  • A puddle of water under the toilet. If you see a puddle of water under the toilet, it could be coming from a cracked tank.
  • A whistling noise coming from the toilet tank. This noise is caused by air escaping from the crack in the tank.
  • The toilet tank is not holding water. If the toilet tank is not holding water, it could be because the crack is allowing the water to drain out.

What are the risks of a cracked toilet tank?

A cracked toilet tank can pose a number of risks, including:

  • Water damage. If the crack is large enough, it can allow water to leak out of the tank and damage the floor or other surrounding areas.
  • Health hazards. A cracked toilet tank can harbor bacteria that can cause health problems.
  • Electrical hazards. If the crack is near the electrical wiring for the toilet, it can create a shock hazard.

If you suspect that you have a cracked toilet tank, it is important to have it repaired or replaced as soon as possible.

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Author Profile

Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell is the owner of toiletty.com. She is a mom of two and is very passionate about home improvement.

Liana has ten years of home improvement experience, and in her own words, she said: “I love improving the home, and I’m very passionate about keeping the home in the best possible condition. I love it!”

Liana Farrell balances beauty and functionality when she goes about her home improvement jobs.