Different reasons cause toilets bolts anchor spinning. The most common reason is rusted bolts, and the best way to fix this issue is by replacing the bolts with a new one. Other reasons include smaller bolts hole and debris. It is better to fix this issue immediately before it leads to bigger problems.
If you don’t fix the toilet bolts spinning issue quickly, it may damage both the bolts and the toilet seat. You should fix this issue without stress with the essential tools and the right technique.
Continue reading this article to learn the causes of toilet bolts spinning and how to fix it.
What is The Function of The Toilet Anchor Bolt?
The main function of the toilet anchor bolts is to hold the toilet seat to the ground. These bolts hold the toilet seat to the ground by attaching it to the floor’s toilet flange. These bolts are smaller in size, but they perform a great function.
Why Do My Toilet Bolts Keep Coming Loose?
One of the common issues with toilet anchor bolts is spinning issues. There are several reasons why toilet anchor bolts spin; the most common is rusted bolts. When the bolts are exposed to oxygen and moisture, they become rusted and decaying. When the bolts decay, it will not be able to hold the toilet seat firmly to the floor again, resulting in toilet anchor bolts spinning.
Aside from that, anchor bolts spinning is also caused by smaller holes. If the holes for the anchor bolt are smaller than the accurate size, it will also lead to toilet bolts spinning. This is why it is very important to drill the accurate size hole for the bolts when installing your toilet; it will help hold the toilet seat firmly to the ground and prevent rusting.
Finally, another thing that may cause anchor bolt spinning is moisture and debris around bolts. One certain thing is that moisture will find its way into the anchor bolts no matter how many times you use the toilet. When the moisture in the anchor bolts mixes with debris, the mixture will work as a lubricant. And the bolts may begin to spin when weight is placed on the toilet seat. This is not very common because it takes time for moisture and debris to affect bolts.
How to Stop Toilet Bolts from Spinning?
Several reasons cause toilet anchor bolts spinning issues. When you notice this issue, the next thing that you need to do is to fix it immediately before it leads to serious damage. If the issue is not fixed immediately, the toilet will not be comfortable for use. Also, the anchor bolts may crack, and the toilet seat may spoil if you don’t fix the issue quickly. You can easily fix the issue yourself because it is not difficult and requires less expertise.
The steps below will guide you on how to fix the spinning bolt:
Step 1: Remove The Old Toilet Bolts
The first thing you need to do when you want to fix a spinning bolt is to remove the toilet bolts holding the toilet seat to the ground. You can remove the bolts with your adjustable wrench or plier.
Note that the bolts will not come out if it is still spinning. So, to keep the bolts in a fixed position, you will have to insert the screwdriver inside the hole. After that, you will hold the bolts with the plier or adjustable wrench. Then you will pull out the bolts and remove the screwdriver simultaneously.
Step 2: Inspect The Hole Carefully
After removing stripped toilet anchor bolts from the hole, the next thing you will need to do is to check the hole carefully. First, check for debris in the hole, and clean everything with a cloth.
The next thing you need to check is the hole size. Does it match the diameter of the bolts? If the size is not big enough for the bolts, you will have to drill the hole to make it bigger.
Step 3: Drill The Hole
You will need to drill the hole to the actual size of the bolts. After drilling the hole, you will reinstall the bolts.
Step 4: Install Cleaned Old Bolts or New Bolts
Before you insert the old bolts, you need to check if the bolt is still good or not. If the bolt is still good, you will need to clean it and apply the spray lubricants before installing it. If the bolt is damaged, you will have to replace it with a new one.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- How to prevent toilet bolts from rusting?
You can prevent the toilet from rusting by using brass or stainless steel bolts. Another way is to apply nail polish onto the bolt heads.
- What are the tools and materials needed for fixing toilet bolts spinning?
The tools and materials include Pliers, screwdriver, Adjustable wrench, Spray lubricants, Plastic cap and cap holder, Toilet bolts, washers, and nuts.
- What will happen if I don’t fix the toilet bolts spinning issue quickly?
If you don’t fix it quickly, it may damage the bolts and the toilet seat.
- What is the major cause of toilet bolts spinning?
The two major causes of toilet bolts spinning are smaller holes and rusted anchor bolts.
Conclusion
Fixing toilet bolts spinning issue is very easy, and you can do it yourself if you have the essential tools. Fixing this issue yourself will also cost you less than hiring a plumber to fix it for you.
The tools and materials you need for fixing this issue include a plier, adjustable wrench, screwdriver, spray lubricants, etc. After removing stripped toilet anchor bolts, you will check if it only needs cleaning or you need to replace it.
Smaller bolts hole may also cause toilet bolts to spin. In this case, you will have to make the hole bigger.
I am James Martin, An professional plumber with more than 16 years of experience. The main purpose of my writing is to share my experiences of helping others. Be with me and explore bathroom plumbing, installation, cleanness ideas, and many more.
