The Importance of Caulking Your Toilet to the Floor

The Importance of Caulking Your Toilet to the Floor

Whenever you think of the most important “appliances” in the home, many individuals often think about kitchen appliances.  However, there are some of us who think about the toilets in our bathrooms as being very important.  Obviously, this is one appliance no home can do without, hence the need for regular preventative maintenance on them.  A toilet that goes unmaintained for too long can result in a lot of costly consequences.  It’s also the reason why Anytime Plumbing emphasizes the reasons why you should caulk your toilet to the floor.

So what exactly is caulk?

Generally speaking, the term “caulk” refers to any waterproofing material that is used to fill and seal gaps or joints between different building materials. It can also be used in new construction or to make repairs on existing structures.  In most cases, caulks are made from latex, rubber, or some other flexible polymer because of their waterproofing qualities.

Furthermore, they were designed to absorb vibrations and expand with changes in the air temperature.  Unlike grout or mortar, caulk can form a connection between materials on different planes.  For example, you can form a connection with tiles sitting at right angles to each other using caulk.  Conversely, you can’t do that with grout since it can only connect tiles that are sitting flat and adjacent to one another.

How does caulk differ from sealants?

Since both of these materials are used for the purpose of filling joints and seams, they are often mistakenly used interchangeably.  The biggest difference between them is elasticity.  Compared to sealants, caulk becomes more rigid as it dries.  Conversely, sealants are best suited and will hold up better in areas that are prone to a significant amount of contraction and expansion.  For example, it’s best to use a silicone sealant when installing windows rather than caulk. If you are confused or need more clarity, you can always call us and we’ll help you with your custom requirements.

How many types of caulk and sealants are there and which type do the Anytime Plumbing experts recommend using on your toilet?

As one of the most important and versatile materials used in the construction industry, caulk is used in almost every aspect of commercial and residential building.  There are different types of caulk available, which causes some confusion when it comes to knowing which one to use once you understand why you should caulk your toilet to the floor.  Here are 4 examples of the different types of caulk available on the market today that Santa Cruz plumbers are familiar with:

• silicone sealants or siliconized acrylic sealant
• latex caulks
• expandable foam caulk
• butyl rubber caulk

Because of their flexibility and their ability to repel moisture and water, silicone sealants are best used as caulk for the bathroom and windows.  Consequently, it is best used around showers, sinks, tubs, and especially toilets. Our team of plumbing experts are conversant with all aspects of caulking and can help with a comprehensive list of plumbing requirements.

What else should you consider when determining why you should caulk your toilet to the floor?

The specialists at Anytime Plumbing also recommend that you learn about other aspects of caulk such as color as well as the differences between fast-drying and regular caulk and sanded vs. un-sanded caulk.  Caulks and sealants are available in a wide range of colors besides clear, neutral, and white.  You can find colors that match the tile that is being laid or you can use paintable caulk and do some color matching before using it.  If you don’t want to mess with that, use a clear caulk or sealant that will blend in no matter where it’s used and offers a more subtle look.

Although regular latex caulks and sealants will be dry to the touch within half an hour to an hour, it may take up to a full day (24 hours) for it to cure completely and be 100% waterproof.  On the other hand, fast-drying caulks and sealants will cure in less than 24 hours, depending on the humidity and the temperature.  Sanded caulk contains particles that enable it to adhere to damp surfaces and expand in wide gaps and feels grainy to the touch.  Un-sanded caulk is smoother in texture and appearance and creates a clear finish that is ideal for backsplashes and countertops.

Hopefully, the above information will be helpful when talking on your next caulking project. And if you need the assistance of experienced plumbing experts, don’t forget to give us a call. To learn more about why you should caulk your toilet to the floor, call Anytime Plumbing at your earliest convenience. We are always available to help you with your caulking requirements.