Can a Hairline Crack in Toilet Tank Be Repaired?
A toilet is arguably one of the most important yet least thought-of items in the house. We frequently use it but regularly forget about it unless something goes wrong. Thankfully, toilets and toilet tanks are built to be sturdy and durable. A quality toilet will last for years with no issues. However, cracks in the toilet tank can appear over time, no matter what precautionary measures are taken to prevent them.
For significant faults, a professional will perform a high-quality job, but smaller cracks are relatively easy to fix on your own. Hairline cracks can differ in severity, and it’s essential to know as much as possible before attempting to fix them.
What causes toilet tank cracks
The most common causes of hairline cracks are impact, age, and accidents. While tanks are generally sturdy, an impact with a heavy object or a person can cause a small hairline crack that expands over time. Additionally, as the toilet tank ages, cracks can appear by themselves, usually due to slight imperfections in the manufacturing process that go unnoticed or don’t pose an issue for years.
When to fix a cracked tank
If you notice a crack on the toilet tank, fixing it should be a priority. A hairline crack below the tank’s water level can widen due to water pressure and result in a leak, leading to severe damage to the house and property. Even a small, innocuous crack can pose a risk over time if not repaired.
For cracks above the waterline, it’s best to measure them regularly. Consider drawing a line on the crack to mark its progress. Generally speaking, small cracks above the water level can be left alone unless they are actively leaking or the damage expands to the rest of the tank.
How to repair a hairline crack
We recommend getting some plumber’s putty or a waterproof silicone epoxy sealant for a DIY hairline repair. A caulking gun is optional, but a knife will also be required to fill and smooth out the material. Here’s how to perform a DIY repair:
Drain the toilet tank. Turning off the water to the tank and flushing it down will remove the water from the tank. Water prevents the sealant from drying out.
Dry out the tank with a cloth or a towel. We recommend wiping down the outside of the tank to prevent condensation.
Fill the crack with the putty or epoxy. Use the putty knife to smoothen the surface of the toilet tank.
Leave the epoxy to dry out for at least 24 hours. Plumber’s putty is more generous since it dries faster. However, it never dries out completely, making it harder to spot when it’s safe to use the toilet again. Read the recommended waiting time on the sealant being used.
Make sure no cracks appear in the epoxy or the tank. If the epoxy itself cracks, seal it further.
Refill the tank with water. Restoring the water supply and checking for leaks is a surefire way of ensuring a successful repair. Keep towels handy in case anything goes wrong.
For larger cracks that are leaking considerably, the safest option is to replace the entire toilet tank. It’s best to hire a professional to assess the damage and replace the tank.
If you need honest and experienced professional plumbing services for residential and commercial plumbing needs in Las Vegas, Henderson, and Enterprise give us a call at 702-766-3320.
