If you see water pooling around your toilet, a crack in the fixture is a possible cause. Cracks can occur in the tank or the bowl and always require plumbing contractor services. Learn more about toilet cracks here and why repairing them immediately is so important.  

What Causes Toilet Cracks? 

Cracks in the toilet tank or bowl can occur because of age-related wear, particularly if the fixture is older and made with cement. This porous material deteriorates over time and can sustain cracks relating to extreme temperature differences between the air and the water within the fixture. As the cement shrinks and contracts, existing cracks enlarge, and new cracks form. 

Other reasons for a cracked tank include over-tightening its bolts and cracking the porcelain. Allowing the lid to hit the tank after doing small repairs can result in cracks as well. Forceful lid impacts can also cause the bowl to crack, as can additional impacts such as leaning on the toilet, repeatedly sitting down on it too hard, and falling into the toilet. 

Where Are They Common? 

Sometimes cracks form in the bowl above the water line. If they are not deep, a plumbing contractor can fill the fractures to lengthen the fixture’s working life. However, deep cracks around this line or anywhere else in the bowl, such as between it and the rest of the toilet that connects to the wax seal and floor flange, call for replacement services. These cracks mean the toilet is no longer structurally sound, and using it can result in injuries. 

One or more large cracks around the toilet’s tank also require replacement services to avoid structural failures that can cause injuries and residential water damage. Even if a crack in the tank or the bowl seems small, have a plumbing contractor inspect it immediately. The plumber will determine whether the crack presents a leak or structural threats to provide the appropriate services. 

Whether you have a toilet issue or any other plumbing problem, contact Martin Plumbing LLC. These Crossville, TN-based plumbing contractors provide a full suite of services, including 24/7 emergency assistance, to keep area residences functional and water damage-free. Call the plumbing contractors at (931) 484-0866 today to make an appointment.