How to Replace a Worn Out Valve Seat Cover

As every homeowner knows a toilet that leaks or is constantly running can add up to huge repair bills in the long run. So most people will address the problem of a faulty toilet as soon as it's noticed, as we all want to avoid those huge bills. But fixing the problem of a leaky valve seat cover is really inexpensive and so simple even an amateur can do it. Just remember that most times leaks are caused by a defective tank ball, flapper, seal or disk. A damaged flush valve seat will be rough and pitted, remember that when checking for problems. You might also look for a split or hole in the overflow pipe or a damaged gasket. Your problem may even stem from something as simple as just having the wrong type of flapper in your tank or the chain may be to big and this can cause it to get stuck under the ball and your toilet to continuously run.

Once you have found the source of your problem you will need to make the needed repairs. If it's the flush valve that is causing the problem then it probably needs to be replaced. To do this you will have to turn the water supply to the tank off. Flush the toilet holding the lever down so that all water is drained from the bowl. Then disconnect the chain inside the tank from the handle. You will then to check the flapper, just remember that this piece attaches to the overflow pipe with little rings that hook to the side. Most valves have two large plastic cylinders with a disk attached to the bottom. The replacement parts for the disks come in two different styles, snap on or screw on. It's very important to know which one you need and want before you go to the home repair store.

When you begin the repairs make sure and handle these parts very gently because they are very easy to break. Also remove the entire top of the valve, this gives you better access to the areas of repair and enables you to see what you are doing. To remove the top part of the assembly on the unit use a screwdriver and gently slip it underneath the hinge connections and spread them apart while lifting the top off. After you have removed the old plug inside the tank of your toilet, clean and polish the edges of a metal seat with a piece of old steel wool. Make sure and examine the seat for any groves before replacing the part. If the surface is not completely smooth you will continue to have problems even after replacing the part. Now you will need to head out to the home repair store to purchase a flush valve repair kit.

Using the kit you purchased at the home repair center you are ready to make the repairs on the flush valve in the tank of your toilet. The first step in the repair process is to make sure there is no water running to the bowl. You will also need to clean up any extra water in the bowl by using old towels. By this point you should have already removed all the old pieces from the tank, like the flapper and chains. Determine what the seat is made of. Use steel wool or sandpaper to clean a brass seat. Then the seat must be completely dried with paper towels. Take the protective paper from one side of the sealant rings and press down firmly on the old seat. Remove the other side of the protective paper and press down firmly over the ring. Make sure the flapper is closed and the handle is in the down position, connect the chain to the hole of the trip lever.

Turn the water supply back on to the tank and check to see if it works properly. For more information on repairing a worn valve seat cover visit www.homerepairs.com.