How to Shim a Toilet Bowl for a Level Installation

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How to Shim a Toilet Bowl

A toilet that is not properly shimmed can cause a number of problems, including leaks, uneven flushing, and a noisy toilet. Shims are small, wedge-shaped pieces of material that are used to level a toilet bowl. By adding or removing shims, you can adjust the height of the toilet bowl so that it sits level on the floor.

Shimming a toilet bowl is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. However, it is important to follow the steps carefully to ensure that the toilet is properly installed.

In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to shim a toilet bowl. We will also discuss the different types of shims that are available and the reasons why you might need to shim a toilet bowl.

So, if you are experiencing any of the problems mentioned above, read on to learn how to shim a toilet bowl and get your toilet back in working order!

Step Instructions Image
1 Locate the bolts that hold the toilet bowl to the floor.
2 Place a shim under each bolt, making sure that the shim is the same thickness on all sides.
3 Tighten the bolts until the toilet bowl is level.

How To Shim A Toilet Bowl?

Tools and Materials

To shim a toilet bowl, you will need the following tools and materials:

  • A toilet shim kit
  • A level
  • A pencil
  • A tape measure
  • A utility knife
  • A hammer
  • A screwdriver
  • A putty knife
  • Silicone sealant

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the toilet.

  • Turn off the water supply to the toilet.
  • Flush the toilet to drain the water from the bowl.
  • Remove the toilet seat.

2. Measure the gap.

  • Use a level to determine if the toilet is level.
  • If the toilet is not level, measure the gap between the toilet and the floor at the front, back, and sides.

3. Cut the shims.

  • Use a utility knife to cut the shims to the appropriate length.
  • The shims should be slightly thicker than the gap between the toilet and the floor.

4. Install the shims.

  • Place the shims under the toilet, evenly spaced around the base.
  • Tap the shims into place with a hammer until they are snug against the floor.

5. Reattach the toilet seat.

  • Reattach the toilet seat and turn on the water supply to the toilet.
  • Flush the toilet to test the toilet’s alignment.

Tips:

  • If you are not comfortable working with tools, you can hire a plumber to shim your toilet.
  • Make sure that the shims are made of a material that is compatible with the floor.
  • Use a sealant to prevent water from seeping under the toilet.

Shimming a toilet is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. By following these steps, you can ensure that your toilet is level and properly aligned.

How To Shim A Toilet Bowl?

A toilet bowl that is not level can cause a number of problems, including:

  • Leaking: If the toilet bowl is not level, the water will not drain properly and may leak from the base of the toilet.
  • Sagging: A toilet bowl that is not level can sag over time, which can damage the toilet and make it difficult to use.
  • Uneven flushing: A toilet bowl that is not level will not flush evenly, which can lead to clogs and other problems.

If you suspect that your toilet bowl is not level, you can check it by using a level. If the toilet bowl is not level, you can shim it to level it.

To shim a toilet bowl, you will need the following materials:

  • A level
  • A measuring tape
  • A pencil
  • A utility knife
  • A hammer
  • Shims (wooden or plastic)

Step 1: Prepare the Toilet Bowl

1. First, remove the toilet seat.
2. Then, clean the bottom of the toilet bowl with a damp cloth.
3. Use a level to check the toilet bowl. If the toilet bowl is not level, you will need to shim it.

Step 2: Measure the Shims

1. Once you have determined that the toilet bowl is not level, you will need to measure the shims.
2. To do this, measure the distance between the toilet bowl and the floor at each of the four corners.
3. You will need to cut shims that are the same thickness as the difference between the toilet bowl and the floor.

Step 3: Shim the Toilet Bowl

1. Once you have cut the shims, you can shim the toilet bowl.
2. To do this, place a shim under each of the four corners of the toilet bowl.
3. Make sure that the shims are level and that they are the same thickness.

Step 4: Secure the Shims

1. Once you have shimmed the toilet bowl, you will need to secure the shims.
2. To do this, use a hammer to tap the shims into place.
3. You may also need to use a sealant to secure the shims in place.

Step 5: Replace the Toilet Seat

1. Once you have secured the shims, you can replace the toilet seat.
2. Make sure that the toilet seat is properly aligned and that it is tight.
3. You can now test the toilet to make sure that it is working properly.

Troubleshooting

If you are having trouble shimming the toilet bowl, you may need to consult with a plumber. A plumber can help you determine the best way to shim the toilet bowl and can also help you fix any other problems that you may be having with your toilet.

Additional Tips

  • When shimming a toilet bowl, it is important to use shims that are the same thickness. This will help to ensure that the toilet bowl is level.
  • You can also use a sealant to secure the shims in place. This will help to prevent the shims from moving and will also help to keep the toilet bowl level.
  • If you are not comfortable shimming a toilet bowl, you can always consult with a plumber. A plumber can help you determine the best way to shim the toilet bowl and can also help you fix any other problems that you may be having with your toilet.

Troubleshooting

If you are having trouble shimming a toilet bowl, you may encounter the following problems:

  • The toilet bowl is not level.
  • The shims are not the same thickness.
  • The shims are not secure.
  • The toilet seat is not properly aligned.
  • The toilet is not working properly.

If you are having any of these problems, you can try the following troubleshooting tips:

  • Check to make sure that the toilet bowl is level. You can do this by using a level. If the toilet bowl is not level, you will need to shim it.
  • Make sure that the shims are the same thickness. You can do this by measuring the shims with a ruler. If the shims are not the same thickness, you will need to cut them to size.
  • Secure the shims in place. You can do this by using a hammer to tap the shims into place. You may also need to use a sealant to secure the shims in place.
  • Make sure that the toilet seat is properly aligned. You can do this by aligning the toilet seat with the toilet bowl.
  • Test the toilet to make sure that it is working properly. You can

    How do I know if my toilet needs to be shimmed?

  • The toilet is not level. You can check this by using a level to measure the difference in height between the front and back of the toilet bowl. If the difference is more than 1/4 inch, the toilet needs to be shimmed.
  • The toilet is rocking back and forth. This is a sign that the toilet is not properly supported and is likely to leak.
  • The toilet is leaking from the base. This is often caused by a loose toilet flange, which can be fixed by shimming the toilet.

What materials do I need to shim a toilet?

  • Shims (wood, plastic, or metal)
  • Tape measure
  • Level
  • Pencil
  • Utility knife
  • Hammer
  • Penetrating oil

How do I shim a toilet?

1. Turn off the water supply to the toilet.
2. Remove the toilet tank lid.
3. Locate the toilet flange, which is a metal ring that is attached to the floor.
4. Apply penetrating oil to the bolts that hold the toilet to the flange.
5. Use a wrench to loosen the bolts and carefully lift the toilet off of the flange.
6. Place shims under the toilet bowl until it is level.
7. Reattach the toilet to the flange and tighten the bolts.
8. Turn on the water supply to the toilet.
9. Flush the toilet to check for leaks.

What are some common mistakes people make when shimming a toilet?

  • Not using enough shims. This can cause the toilet to be uneven and may lead to leaks.
  • Using the wrong type of shims. Wood shims are not recommended for toilets because they can rot over time. Plastic or metal shims are a better option.
  • Not tightening the bolts enough. This can cause the toilet to become loose and may lead to leaks.
  • Not checking for leaks after shimming the toilet. It is important to flush the toilet and check for leaks after shimming it to make sure that it is installed properly.

How can I prevent my toilet from needing to be shimmed in the future?

  • Make sure that the toilet is installed level and properly supported.
  • Use high-quality shims that are made of a durable material.
  • Tighten the bolts that hold the toilet to the flange securely.
  • Check for leaks regularly and fix them as soon as possible.

Shimming a toilet bowl is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your toilet is properly aligned and level, preventing leaks and other problems.

Here are the key takeaways from this guide:

  • Toilet bowls can become misaligned due to a variety of factors, including settling of the foundation, shifting of the subfloor, and uneven floor tiles.
  • To shim a toilet bowl, you will need a few basic tools, including a level, a measuring tape, a hammer, and some shims.
  • The first step is to determine the height of the shims you will need. You can do this by measuring the distance between the bottom of the toilet bowl and the floor.
  • Once you have the correct height, you can begin shimming the toilet bowl. Start by placing a shim under each of the four legs of the toilet.
  • Once the toilet is level, you can tighten the nuts on the bolts that secure the toilet to the floor.
  • Be sure to test the toilet to make sure it is properly aligned and level before using it.

By following these steps, you can easily shim a toilet bowl and prevent leaks and other problems.

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.