The real trouble starts when folks try to fudge it with random stuff—like coins, or, well, playing cards.
You’re not wrong about the risks there. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve pulled a toilet and found all sorts of “creative” leveling solutions jammed underneath. The weirdest for me was a folded beer coaster, which had basically dissolved into pulp by the time I got there. Not exactly a long-term fix.
You nailed it about wax rings too. People think more is better, but that’s not how it works. Double-stacking wax rings is pretty much a band-aid, and usually fails after a while. The wax just doesn’t have the structural integrity to make up for a badly misaligned flange. And once it starts to ooze out, you’re back to leaks and water stains on the ceiling below—ask me how I know.
Flange extenders get a bad rap, but honestly, if you follow the instructions and use the right screws, they’re pretty foolproof. The trick is making sure each layer is sealed properly. I’ve seen folks skip the silicone between layers, and that’s where leaks can sneak in. It’s tedious, but worth the extra five minutes.
I’m with you on the shims too. Those little plastic wedges are lifesavers. I’d avoid wood or anything that can swell if it gets damp. And yeah, desperate times call for desperate measures, but most of the time, a $2 pack of shims beats a night spent mopping up mystery water.
All that said, I get why people improvise in the middle of the night. Nobody wants to leave the toilet rocking until morning, especially with guests around or just needing to get back to bed. But if you’ve got the time and tools, it’s worth doing right—otherwise you end up fixing it again later, and probably cursing your past self in the process.
Funny how these “temporary” fixes always seem to become permanent until something finally gives way...
Funny how these “temporary” fixes always seem to become permanent until something finally gives way...
Ain’t that the truth. I once found a stack of poker chips under a toilet—guess someone was feeling lucky, but the house always wins in the end. I’m with you on shims, though. Those little plastic guys are worth their weight in gold. Ever had to deal with a flange that’s sunk way below the floor? That’s my least favorite surprise.
Flange sitting too low is a pain, no doubt. I’ve seen folks try to double up wax rings, but that’s just asking for leaks down the line. Ever tried one of those flange extension kits? Curious how they’ve held up for others—mixed results on my end.
I’ve seen folks try to double up wax rings, but that’s just asking for leaks down the line.
Couldn’t agree more—doubling up wax is a shortcut that usually comes back to bite you. I’ve had to clean up after a few midnight floods where someone tried that. Flange extension kits are better, but I’m always a little wary about the seal over time. Did you notice any shifting with yours? Sometimes I wonder if the subfloor condition makes a difference... I’ve had one hold up fine and another start leaking after a year. Never feels like a sure thing.
Flange extensions are a bit of a gamble, honestly. I’ve put them in where the subfloor was solid and never had an issue, but if there’s even a hint of rot or flex, that seal just doesn’t last. Had one job where the floor was a little spongy—looked fine at first, but a few months later, homeowner called about a slow leak. Turned out the flange had shifted just enough to break the seal. Wax rings are forgiving, but they can’t fix a bad foundation. Sometimes feels like you’re just crossing your fingers and hoping for the best...
