Check out some similar questions!

Buffalo A · Apr 30, 2007, 05:19 AM

I tiled my floor at least 1 month ago, and am now noticing a bad odor from my bathroom. However, due to the limited size, I cannot tell if it's from my sink that has been backing up for a few weeks, or toilet? The sink problem is that it backs up on me, and I have recently cleaned out a nasty smelling clogged trap, however, it continues to back up, therefore, I think that problem needs to be snaked?

Regarding the toilet, I have done a little research on the anatomy of the connectors, etc. and have read previous postings about seals. When I put the toilet back on over the tiled floor, I cleaned off the old wax ring from the base and the floor. However, if my memory is correct, I think I might have pulled a rubber o-ring from the floor and not realized it? Therefore, I simply put on a wax ring, and then reconnected the toilet. Is the ring to short? Should there be a rubber o-ring as well? I apologize for my ignorance!

speedball1 · Apr 30, 2007, 06:33 AM

No need to apologze. You are correct, your lavatory has a partial blockage in the drain line in the wall and should be snaked. Did you pull the stopper and check for rotting hair hung up in the drain?
Please explain the function of the rubber ring. You're going to hafta get down and dirty, start sniffing aroiund and let me know where it smells the worst. Good luck, Tom

Buffalo A · Apr 30, 2007, 06:57 AM

Tom, thanks for the quick reply. After reading several more posts, I am assuming the clog is in the drain line to the wall / stack vent pipe? I have fully cleaned the drain stopper in the sink as well as the trap. I am going to purchase an auger, and attempt to unclog it in the drain line, with your advisement.

Regarding the toilet, yes, it's definitely gas smell from the base of the toilet. The toilet tends to rock a little too. I think the wax ring was not enough of a seal, and need to get one with a flange? Basically, I think I pulled the flange off (I called it rubber o-ring), and only put on a piece of wax ring, to the hole in the floor, I am assuming that is a weak seal, specially considering I have raised the floor alomost 1" with backer board and ceramic tile.

An another note, I am haning a slow drain in the tub as well. This is another battle that I soon plan on attacking. However, in this scenario, I may be lost. Is there a way to post pics on this site?

ballengerb1 · Apr 30, 2007, 07:47 AM

Some wax rings do have a neopreme collar (rubber) but most do not. If you toilet wiggles to will likely get sewer gas into the room since the collar can't maintain a seat. A larger ring or a PVC spacer will fill the void but you have not tightened the toilet to the floor enough. A bad ring will not let a toilet rock, bad bolting does that. While you are replacing your ring it would be a good time to do you rodding. Start with a small rod forst and work your way up.

Buffalo A · Apr 30, 2007, 08:10 AM

Ballengerb1 - I appreciate your feedback. When rodding, what is the appropriate procedure for measuring, etc? Is this a spacer that is placed on the floor between the wax ring / toilet base, but not inside the drain of the floor?

ballengerb1 · Apr 30, 2007, 08:54 AM

Tom will be back and he has some good pictures of spacers. They go between the flange and the ring. Measuring? I'm not sure what you mean. What are you trying to measure. Sorry, sometimes my mind's eye is off.

Buffalo A · Apr 30, 2007, 09:24 AM

Pictures would be great, I do better when I see rather then try to visualize what a spacer accomplishes, looks like, etc. Looking forward to it! Thanks.

speedball1 · Apr 30, 2007, 10:43 AM

Bal was bang on. A faulty wax seal together with a loose bowl almost guarantees escaping sewer gas. Replace the wax ring with one with a funnel and bring the flange to grade using a set of flange extenders, (see image).
Do not overtighten the closet bolts. Stop when you can no longer twist or move the bowl. You may post pictures using the "Manage Attachments" feature located in the Additional Options box. Good luck, Tom

Buffalo A · Apr 30, 2007, 08:25 PM

Ok, I purchased a Hand Auger for $25, and it was probably the best investment yet. I had a deep, nasty, smelly clog in the bathroom sink drain pipe, and the auger tore it up. I pulled out old tooth past caps, thick black sludge, etc. I doubt the pipes had been cleaned out in years, but would not know because I have only have owned the house for a year. I will tackle the tub slow drain and toilet tomorrow. I also bought a reinforced wax ring with funnel flange, and a flange extender. I am sure this will do the trick on the gas odor.