If your American Standard toilet tank has a crack, there’s no need to worry. Cracking is common in toilets as they are very susceptible. Fortunately, you’ll be able to quickly learn how to fix this type of problem. Plus, it is an affordable repair that won’t set you back.
This quick article will teach you how to repair cracks in your American Standard toilet tank (for more information about your American Standard toilet, read here).
American Standard toilet tank cracks can be fixed by using waterproof epoxy or porcelain sealer (for more help with fixing standard American toilets, read our Dual Flush Toilet Troubleshooting Guide). Inspect the tank on all sides to identify how many cracks there are and their location. The repair is simple and inexpensive. Detecting the problem early and promptly repairing it will save you lots of trouble.
Why is my Toilet Tank Cracked?
In most cases, toilet tanks crack because the lid is heavy and not properly secured. The toilet cistern can crack easily because of how fragile it is. It is also heavy and when lids are not closed properly, they can crack. This video shows you a quick fix for cracks on an American Standard toilet tank.
How to Locate Cracks in an American Standard Toilet Tank
Locating the cracks is the first step in this DIY toilet repair. There are several places where you may spot a crack in your American Standard toilet tank.
Keep in mind that the cracks may be located above or below the water line in the tank. Cracks may also be located on the inner or outer side of the tank. You will implement a particular repair depending on where the crack is located.
When the Crack is Located Above the Water Line of the Cistern
Cracks located above the cistern’s water line are typically not a problem. It becomes more of an issue when the crack extends to other parts of the tank. This expansion usually happens gradually.
When you spot a crack in the cistern, be sure to monitor it closely. You don’t want this minor damage to become a major problem. It is helpful to take a picture of the crack to create a point of reference.
When the Crack is Located Below the Water Line of the Cistern
As you can imagine, when the crack is located below the water line of the cistern, it will cause trouble. This is a problem that needs immediate repair! Although this issue can be cumbersome, you’ll have to tackle it quickly so that it doesn’t cause other problems in your bathroom.
Detecting a crack in this location can be challenging. Start by checking the toilet’s seals located between the tank and the bowl. You want to detect any possible leaks. If you suspect a leak, try to find out where it is exactly coming from. It may be the cistern that is leaking.
The next step is to inspect the cistern thoroughly. You’ll want to know exactly where the crack is located to stop the leak. Cracks are sometimes hard to see, especially inside the tank. Be patient and get a good flashlight to help you through.
The outer surface of the cistern can also have cracks, which are more easily detected. In addition, you may have multiple cracks. Don’t be surprised if you do find various cracks that have gone undetected. Even if the cracks are small and seem insignificant, you have to remember that they can expand.
How to Locate an Invisible Crack
Yes, we’re not kidding! There could be an invisible crack on your American Standard toilet tank. No need to be concerned or confused, help is on the way. If you don’t see any visible cracks, these two signs can help you diagnose your toilet.
- The outside of your toilet has stagnant water.
- Your toilet tank mysteriously empties.
Surprisingly, even an invisible crack that is super tiny can cause your toilet tank to leak water. If this is happening, you’ll notice stagnant water on the floor surrounding your toilet.
In rare instances, the water leaks into the sewer line instead of the floor. This could be the case when your tank empties mysteriously. It can quickly increase your water costs each month if left without repair.
Why can cracks on my toilet tank appear?
Common Causes for Cracks on Your American Standard Toilet Tank
These are some typical reasons why crack can develop on your American Standard Toilet Tank:
1. Your Toilet Tank Has Been Recently Repaired or Adjusted
If your toilet has been recently repaired or adjusted, damage may have occurred. The toilet cistern can crack easily because porcelain can be very delicate. You have to remember that the tank’s lid is heavy and heavy-duty tools are used around it.
Fixing a toilet must be done very carefully. Even plumbing professionals sometimes forget how delicate toilets can be. Careless handling of its components can easily lead to cracks.
To avoid cracks, bolts on the toilet cannot be adjusted too tightly. When putting the tank’s lid back on, it has to be done slowly and in a controlled manner. Sometimes when the lid is put back on too hard, cracks will develop on the upper portion of the tank.
These cracks may seem like only a cosmetic problem, but they are deceitful. They can spread further down the tank and cause the whole tank to get damaged.
2. The Toilet Tank is Outdated
As your toilet tank ages, the porcelain can develop cracks. If you have an old tank, it is best to get an upgrade as soon as you can. Cracks will continue to spread and eventually you’ll have to solve a major problem.
It is unlikely you’ll be able to successfully repair cracks on an old toilet tank. It is best to just invest in a new one.
3. Lack of Tank Monitoring
Cistern leaks often occur because of a lack of regular monitoring. Make a habit to inspect your toilet tank frequently. Once each month is a great inspection schedule. Check for cracks and possible places where one can develop.
Do immediate repairs even if you think the problem is minor. As I said, cracks can be deceiving or even invisible!
When you have a cistern leak (https://greenlivingideas.com/2015/01/21/toilet-leaks-how-to-fix/), you could be flushing your money down the toilet!
How to Repair Cracks on Your American Standard Toilet Tank
Minor cracks can be repaired with waterproof epoxy (https://resin-expert.com/en/guide/waterproof-epoxy). Be sure to choose epoxy that is compatible with porcelain. Follow these steps to perform the repair:
1. Shut Off the Water Source
Under your toilet, find the switch that opens the valve and turn it off. Empty your tank and dry it thoroughly.
2. Gently Sand the Cracked Area and Apply Epoxy
With fine-grit sandpaper, gently sand the area around the crack. You want to create a rough surface to allow the epoxy to adhere. Follow the instructions on the epoxy label. You will likely have to dry the epoxy overnight.
3. Fill Up the Cistern and Test For Leaks
You may now refill the tank by opening the valve again. Let your tank fill completely before doing a test flush. Take your time inspecting all areas carefully to detect leaks.
Using Your Toilet With Confidence!
Repairing cracks on an American Standard toilet tank is simple and inexpensive. If you patiently work on the repairs, you’ll likely succeed. It can be a bit tedious, but working carefully will pay off.
Toilet tank leaks can cause damage to other parts of your bathroom, so be diligent in monitoring your tank regularly. Most damage can be detected and repaired easily.
The great news is that repairs are simple and you may be able to avoid replacing your tank. Certainly, it will be a satisfying feeling when it’s all working properly!
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