How to Caulk Around a Toilet Base

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Avoid leaks and odors by re-caulking your toilet
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Caulking around a toilet is usually done to hide the gap between the toilet’s base and the floor for cosmetic reasons or to prevent odor leakage. It’s a relatively simple home improvement project that many people can do themselves. In this article, we’ll teach you all the steps on how to caulk around a toilet and why it’s beneficial. Plus, get expert advice from professional handyman Art Fricke.

Best Way to Seal a Toilet with Caulk

Remove any old caulk and clean up around the base of the toilet. Load 100% silicone caulk into a caulk gun and slowly apply it at a 45-degree angle around the toilet, leaving a slight gap at the back in case of leaks. Scoop off excess caulk with your finger and allow it to cure for 24 hours.

Section 1 of 4:

Preparing the Toilet for Caulking

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  1. If your toilet already has a caulk seal around the base, remove it rather than applying new caulk directly over it. Run a caulk removal tool along the joint between the toilet and the floor to scrape it out, or use a utility or razor knife to loosen the caulk at one end. Aim to pull it up in 1 long strip. [1]
    • Find a dedicated caulk removal tool at a home improvement store or online.
    • Before scraping, apply a commercial caulk remover to make clean up easier. Just make sure to check the product’s label to prevent any possible damage to your floors or toilet.
  2. After clearing the joint of any caulk, scoop out any debris, such as paint chips, dirt, or rust, to get the area as clean as possible. Use a general purpose bathroom cleaner and a rag to clean in and around the joint. The cleaner you can get the area, the better of a seal you’ll be able to apply. After cleaning, wipe the area with rubbing alcohol to disinfect it. [2]
    • Press a tissue around the base of the toilet to check for moisture. If you find a leak, remove the toilet and replace the wax ring before continuing.
    • If any water or other liquid gets in the joint, do your best to dry it. If you can’t quite reach it, let it dry completely (typically overnight) before applying the caulk. Caulking over liquid will trap it, which can damage your flooring.
    • Ensure the toilet is even and tight to the floor. If it moves, tighten the bolts or use a shim to straighten it out. Don’t use the caulk to secure the toilet to the floor if it’s loose or uneven.
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  3. Not only will this help you get a straighter, smoother seal, but it will prevent any caulk from getting on your floors. Put masking tape on either side of the joint, one following the toilet’s base and the other along the floor. If you’re worried about your caulking abilities, use a second strip on either side to double the width of the masking tape and protect more of your floors. [3]
    • Since most toilets have a round base, you’ll probably have to use several strips of tape to properly follow the curve. Tear up pieces a few inches long and apply them to the floor, following the curve of the toilet’s base.
    • Alternatively, buy curved masking tape that is more flexible than typical tape. This will save some time when taping your floor.
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Section 2 of 4:

Caulking Around the Toilet Base

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  1. This caulk is best for use on a toilet because it’s more water-resistant than other types of caulk, like acrylic. Silicone caulk is typically a bit more expensive than other types, but that extra money will save you the problems that come with an improper seal. Look for the phrase “waterproof” on the tube. [4]
    • If you prefer to do so, match the color of your caulk to your bathroom. White usually fits most styles, but choose what works best for you.
  2. Cut the tip off of the caulk tube and puncture the end with the metal rod attached to the gun. While the tube holds the sealant, the caulk gun is what allows you to deliver it. At the back of the gun’s body, push the metal release (usually shaped like a trigger) forward to pull back the plunger. Then, insert the caulk tube and push the plunger into the back of the tube. [5]
    • The plastic body of the gun holds the tube, and the plunger is a metal pole with a flat end that runs the length of the body.
  3. To use a caulk gun , pull on the trigger and keep the caulk gun at a 45-degree angle. Move the gun slowly and smoothly around the base of the toilet, keeping consistent pressure on the trigger. Do this around the whole toilet, leaving a small gap at the back of it. [6]
    • Use the hand not holding the gun to press the tip of the caulk tube against the joint to ensure that the caulk is pushed into the joint.
    • Pushing the caulk rather than pulling it along will make it more difficult to create a consistent seal.
    • Leaving an unsealed gap at the back of the toilet allows the air to circulate. If there’s a leak, it prevents the water from getting trapped under the caulk where you can’t see it.
    • To prevent caulk from dribbling onto your floors, keep a piece of cardboard nearby to lay the gun on if you need to stop for any reason.
    • If you have trouble getting the caulk gun behind the toilet, try using caulk in a squeeze tube for more flexibility
  4. Run your finger along the caulk seal to push it deeper into the joint, sealing it more fully. This also allows you to scoop off any extra caulk, resulting in a cleaner joint. Dip your finger in water or rubbing alcohol if you’re worried about the caulk sticking to your finger. Discard any caulk buildup directly into the garbage, or collect it on a piece of cardboard to dispose of later. [7]
    • If you’re worried about dirtying your hands or irritating your skin, wear gloves, or use something with a flat edge, like a credit card, to smooth the caulk.
    • If you're having trouble smoothing the caulk down with your finger, Fricke recommends pushing the bead line down with masking tape. He says to “get it nice and smooth,” then remove the tape before the caulk gets tacky. You should have a perfect caulk line without as much of a mess. [8]
    • Or, buy a dedicated caulk finishing tool to clean up your seal, but this isn’t strictly necessary.
  5. If you used masking tape, it should peel off quite easily. Pull the tape at a 45-degree angle away from you. If you got caulk on the tape, be careful as you peel it to avoid spilling the sealant on your floors. Masking tape usually shouldn’t leave any sticky residue, but if it does, use a product like Goo Gone to get rid of it. [9]
  6. It isn’t necessary to apply any cleaning solution to the sponge or rag, as its absorbency should clean up any spilled caulk. Pass a damp rag or sponge lightly around the base of the toilet, picking up any caulk around the joint. Make as many passes as you need to clean up the joint, rinsing between passes. [10]
  7. The curing time for caulk depends on the type you choose, so read the label carefully. In general, though, caulk needs about 24 hours to cure. [11] Caulk hardens as it’s exposed to oxygen, but if you’re in a hurry, Fricke says, “You can speed it up a little bit with some heat and blowing air. [Using] a fan helps or a hair dryer on low.” [12] Don’t use high heat, however, as this could make the caulk take longer to cure.
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Section 3 of 4:

Benefits of Caulking Around Your Toilet

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  1. Water may splash out of your toilet or bathtub, and without a seal, it could seep under your toilet. Because this water often remains undisturbed, it will stagnate and may lead to mold and fungus growth. The best way to prevent this and keep your bathroom clean and healthy is to caulk around the toilet. [14]
  2. Toilets are typically secured to the floor with bolts, but if the floor is uneven, the toilet may rock back and forth. This could just be a general annoyance or it could potentially damage the inner plumbing. Sealing the toilet with caulk provides a durable layer of cushioning to help keep it stable. [15]
  3. Sometimes, foul odors from the plumbing waft out into the bathroom from under the bottom of the toilet. This smell can be even worse if there’s mold or fungus growing under the toilet. Caulking around the toilet helps seal in those odors to keep your bathroom smelling fresh. [16]
  4. Caulking around the toilet can hide gaps and imperfections, and the clean, white line of a well-done caulking job can make your bathroom look neat and pristine. If the look of your bathroom is important to you, it might be a good idea to caulk around your toilet. [17]
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Section 4 of 4:

Caulking FAQs

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  1. Depending on what supplies you use and how much of it you already have at home, it typically costs between $10-$30 to caulk a toilet yourself. If you hire a professional plumber or general contractor, it usually ranges from $1.25 to $4 per linear foot. [18]
  2. Caulk can be used for all kinds of DIY home renovations. Apply it around baseboards , to faucets, around the base of a bathtub , or to the trim around a window . Caulking can prevent leaks, drafts, mold issues, and even pests. Just do your research beforehand to make sure caulk will be beneficial for your project and to ensure you choose the right type. [19]
  3. Some plumbing codes require caulking around toilets, but it isn’t always strictly necessary. Some people prefer not to because they’re concerned the caulk would prevent them from knowing about potential leaks under their toilet. However, this can be prevented by leaving a gap without caulk at the back of the toilet. Many professionals believe caulking is beneficial and recommend it. [20]
    • If caulking is required by your plumbing code, you could get a fine if you don’t caulk around the toilet, but it’s unlikely this will be discovered unless you have an inspection.
  4. Look for caulk that states that it’s 100% silicone and/or 100% waterproof. Anything that says “bathroom” or “tile” caulking should work, but if you’re not sure, ask someone at your local home improvement store. They should be able to help you select the best option for your needs. [21]
  5. In general, caulking a toilet is pretty easy to do yourself. [22] However, if it’s difficult for you to get down on your knees, if you’re worried you won’t do the job correctly, or if you simply don’t have the time, calling a professional might be in your best interest. If you’re not sure who to call, reach out to your local home inspection team for a recommendation.
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Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    How can I get a straight caulk line?
    Art Fricke
    Home Renovation & Repair Specialist
    Art Fricke is a home renovation and repair specialist and the owner of Art Tile & Renovation based in Austin, Texas. With over 10 years of experience, he specializes in bathroom and kitchen renovations. Art focuses on a single contractor approach to customized renovation work, and performs projects such as installing custom tile showers, fixing tiled shower leaks, replacing cracked tiles, and installing floor and wall tile.
    Art Fricke
    Home Renovation & Repair Specialist
    Expert Answer
    Take your time and put down a bead of caulk. Then, press masking tape down over the silicone to get it nice and smooth. Pull up the tape before the silicone gets tacky―you should have a perfect caulk line that goes exactly where you want it to go.
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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/caulking
      2. ↑ https://energy.ces.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/E-ConDIYCaulking.pdf?fwd=no
      3. ↑ https://campainters.com/how-to-caulking/
      4. ↑ https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/caulking
      5. ↑ https://extension.missouri.edu/publications/gh4881
      6. ↑ https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/caulking
      7. ↑ https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/do-it-yourself-savings-project-using-caulk-seal-air-leaks
      8. ↑ Art Fricke. Home Renovation & Repair Specialist. Expert Interview. 14 August 2020.
      9. ↑ https://campainters.com/how-to-caulking/
      1. ↑ https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/do-it-yourself-savings-project-using-caulk-seal-air-leaks
      2. ↑ https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/do-it-yourself-savings-project-using-caulk-seal-air-leaks
      3. ↑ Art Fricke. Home Renovation & Repair Specialist. Expert Interview. 14 August 2020.
      4. ↑ Art Fricke. Home Renovation & Repair Specialist. Expert Interview. 14 August 2020.
      5. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/caulk-around-toilet/
      6. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/caulk-around-toilet/
      7. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/caulk-around-toilet/
      8. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/caulk-around-toilet/
      9. ↑ https://energy.ces.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/E-ConDIYCaulking.pdf?fwd=no
      10. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/what-is-caulk-used-for/
      11. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/caulk-around-toilet/
      12. ↑ https://energy.ces.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/E-ConDIYCaulking.pdf?fwd=no
      13. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/easy-home-repairs/

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      Caulk is useful to hide the gap between the toilet and the floor and to prevent odor leakage. All you'll need to caulk around a toilet is a utility knife, masking tape, silicone caulk, an application gun, and cleaning rags. First, remove any old caulk, as caulk is more effective when it's placed directly on the surface. Then, you'll need to place masking tape on the floor around the joint so you get a straight seal. As you apply the new caulk, hold the application gun at a 45-degree angle to create a smooth seal. Once you've finished, smooth away any excess caulk using your finger and then peel the masking tape off. For more information on caulking around a toilet, like how to clean the base of the toilet before you begin, read on!

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