Should You Use A Wax Seal When Installing Your Toilet, Or Is There A Better Option?

Whether you're installing a new toilet or replacing the wax ring on an old toilet, one thing is certain: getting a tight seal at the base is essential. Your first instinct might be to reach for a traditional wax ring to form a watertight connection between the toilet base and the sewer pipe, but there are wax-free options to consider. Weighing the pros and cons of wax versus wax-free options will help you make the best choice for your situation.

A lower-cost option compared to wax-free versions, wax rings form to the flange easily due to their pliable consistency, creating a secure seal that adapts to uneven flanges. When installed correctly, wax rings can last as long as the toilet — up to 30 years or longer. Once they're in place, wax rings don't need maintenance unless they become damaged and need to be replaced.

However, wax seals need specific temperatures. To soften and mold properly, the wax ring needs temperatures of at least 70 degrees Fahrenheit without being so hot the wax melts. That's why some plumbers recommend against wax with heated bathroom floors. Overly soft wax can cause the ring to fail. Cold temperatures harden the wax, which also decreases the ring's effectiveness. Wax rings can be difficult and messy to install. You have one shot to position the toilet correctly — moving the toilet after placing it can damage the wax. The wax can also become compromised if the toilet rocks or shifts over time.

Rubber is a common material for wax-free toilet seals, with more flexible foam versions also being an option. These seals use secure adhesive to stick to the base of your toilet. They come in different sizes, including longer options in case your flange sits lower in the floor.

Replacing the wax ring on your toilet with a wax-free seal is a relatively easy DIY project. The installation is usually easier and less messy than a wax ring. You simply position it in the flange and place the toilet on top to secure the adhesive. Another perk is the option to reuse a wax-free seal, as long as it's still intact. If you need to lift the toilet for any reason, the wax ring has to be replaced every time you move the toilet. Since you don't have to worry about the seal melting, you can also feel comfortable using it in hot climates or in bathrooms with radiant floor heating.

This option may not work if you have a high flange sticking out of your floor. Wax rings compress more than wax-free seals, making them a better fit for a high or irregular flange. Rubber and foam materials could also become damaged if you use bleach or other corrosive chemicals near the seal. Despite being reusable, wax-free seals may not last as long as wax. They're also more expensive than wax, with foam being the most expensive option.

When deciding between wax and wax-free toilet seals, consider the conditions. Rubber or foam seals may have a lower risk of failure in extreme temperatures or frequent temperature swings since they're less susceptible to hot and cold than wax. They also work well if you're not very experienced, as you can reuse them and reposition the toilet if it's not right the first time. Wax rings excel when you have uneven floors or a flange that's higher than normal because the wax conforms well to irregular surfaces.  

With either type, installing your toilet correctly is essential. Incorrect installation could be what's causing your toilet to leak at the base. Toilet rings come in different sizes, so choosing the correct one ensures a secure seal. Wax rings come in regular and thick versions to account for lower flanges. Diameter wise, the rings come in 3-inch and 4-inch versions. There are also different sizes of rubber and foam seals to accommodate different flange heights and situations.

Once you install the new ring and toilet, check for a secure seal. When it's secure, the toilet should be level and stable without any rocking. Test it out by sitting on the toilet and moving around like you would if you were going to the bathroom. Once you reconnect the toilet to the water source, watch for leaks around the base of the toilet. Water or moisture in that area usually means you don't have tight seal.