"Could've been user error (wouldn't be the first time), but I've gone back to wax since then."
Yeah, honestly, foam seals can be hit or miss. I've installed a fair number of them, and while they're definitely easier and cleaner, I've seen a couple fail prematurely—usually when the toilet rocks or isn't seated perfectly level. Could've just been bad luck on your part, but if wax is working fine now, no harm sticking with what you trust. Still, don't write foam off completely...they've got their place, especially if you dread the sticky wax mess.
Had a similar issue myself a while back. Thought I'd try foam since wax always seemed messy, but the toilet wasn't perfectly level (old house, uneven floors...you know how it goes). Ended up leaking again within a month. Switched back to wax and shimmed the toilet properly—been solid ever since. Foam's convenient, sure, but if your floor isn't spot-on level, wax might save you some headaches down the road.
I've had decent luck with foam even on uneven floors, but the trick is getting the toilet shimmed really well before applying it. Foam's definitely less messy and easier to reposition if needed. Wax seals are reliable, sure, but I've seen them fail too if the toilet shifts even slightly over time. Either way, proper shimming and securing the toilet to avoid movement is key—otherwise you're just asking for trouble down the line.
"Either way, proper shimming and securing the toilet to avoid movement is key—otherwise you're just asking for trouble down the line."
Couldn't agree more. Learned this lesson the hard way myself... thought I'd save a few bucks skipping the shims, and ended up with a wobbly toilet and water damage creeping under the floor. Foam seals are tempting (less messy sounds great), but honestly, I'm still wary of anything other than wax. Call me old-fashioned, but peace of mind is worth a little extra cleanup.
"Foam seals are tempting (less messy sounds great), but honestly, I'm still wary of anything other than wax."
Yeah, I'm with you there—wax rings have stood the test of time for a reason. I've seen a couple foam seals fail prematurely, especially if there's any rocking or unevenness. And honestly, once moisture gets under the flooring, you're looking at way more than just a toilet replacement. Better safe than sorry... a few extra minutes shimming and sealing properly beats tearing up your bathroom floor later.
