These are normally made from Beeswax, but there have been some companies devolping synthetic wax rings.
The wax ring is just to seal the toilet to the drain. It has no effect on the flushing.
The name for the wax seal for a toilet is a wax toilet ring. Some people also call this item a toilet wax bowl gasket.
The toilet wax ring is probably cracked and leaking.You have to drain and remove the toilet to replace the wax ring below it.Hope this helps!
William Harvey
Do not use silicone at the base of the toilet after seating the wax ring. You must use grout. The rocking of the toilet will wear the wax ring seal.
It is not difficult to change a wax ring,but you should consult a plumber to make sure there is no other damage.
You can find detailed instructions for replacing the wax ring under your toilet at http://www.hammerzone.com/archives/bath/fixt_repair/toilet/wax_ring/replace.htm. It should cost around $20.00 to complete this job.
yes it can
You need a new wax ring.
The wax ring which seals the toilet to the drain is leaking. turn off water, drain tank by flushing. Disconnect water line. remove tank, unbolt toilet from floor. Remove any old wax from toilet and drain. Replace with new wax ring. Reset toilet and press firmly into place.
I don't think a toilet would function properly mounted at a 45 degree angle, with or without a wax ring. Regardless, you should always use a wax ring.
Besides spacers, a thicker wax ring may be used.