Gaskets

Oatey®, Hercules® and Harvey® Wax Gaskets are versatile solutions for setting closet bowls on any floor type. Designed to fit 3 in. or 4 in. waste lines, they deliver high-quality performance and dependability.

The Hercules Johni-Ring® stands out with its 100% pure, high-grade petroleum wax, known for being soft and malleable. This allows it to conform perfectly to rough or uneven surfaces, creating a secure seal. Stainless, waterproof, and resistant to vermin, odors, gases and acid, Johni-Ring ensures a long-lasting, reliable installation. It also features a clean release tray for no-mess handling and easy installation, even in challenging environments.

For added durability, a reinforced wax gasket is available, offering extra strength for heavy-duty applications. These gaskets are favored by professional plumbers for their exceptional sealing capabilities, making them a trusted choice for both residential and commercial installations. With a legacy of quality and performance, Oatey, Hercules and Harvey wax gaskets provide peace of mind with every use.

Frequently Asked Questions

When do I need to replace a wax ring?

You may need to replace a toilet wax ring if you notice water leaking or pooling around the base of the toilet, persistent sewer or sewage odors, or visible floor damage near the toilet. Other signs include a toilet that rocks or feels loose, or water stains on the ceiling below the bathroom. These symptoms often indicate a failed wax seal, which can lead to leaks, subfloor damage, and potential mold if not addressed promptly.

Do I need a wax ring with a funnel or without?

Wax rings with polyethylene funnels (also called horns or sleeves) provide directional flow into the drain and can offer added protection against leaks. They're particularly useful when the toilet flange is recessed below the floor level. Standard wax rings without funnels work well for most installations where the flange is at or above floor level. Wax rings with a funnel also help with proper alignment over the closet flange, giving the installer peace of mind that the install is correct.

What's the difference between Oatey, Hercules, and Harvey wax rings?

Oatey, Hercules and Harvey wax rings all deliver a reliable, watertight seal and meet Oatey’s quality standards. The difference comes down to features, configuration and brand preference, with options like reinforced rings, horn styles and varying wax thicknesses to match different installation needs.

How long do Oatey wax ring gaskets last?

When properly installed, Oatey wax ring gaskets can last for decades without needing replacement. The wax material does not degrade over time and maintains its sealing properties indefinitely under normal use conditions. Replacement is typically only needed when removing and reinstalling a toilet.

What temperature should the wax seal be installed at?

You should make sure that your wax seal is between 70°F and 110°F at the time of installation. This will give you the best compression for a water tight seal.

What is the shelf life of a wax seal?

The shelf life depends on how the product is stored. If a wax seal is stored in a dry location exposed to temperatures between 40°F and 110°F, the shelf life is 5 years from date of manufacture.

Does Oatey sell a wax gasket that is made from bees wax?

No. Wax seals made with bees wax would be too expensive and would not have any benefits or advantages over our current products.

How is a wax seal installed?

It is always important to first set the toilet bowl in place before installing the wax seal; this will confirm that the toilet bolts are aligned properly, and the floor can be checked for levelness in case the bowl will need to be shimmed during installation.   

What ingredients are in wax gaskets?

Oatey and Hercules wax seals are a blend of Slack Wax (unrefined feed stock) and Micro Crystalline Wax (refined feed stock). These are used to control the properties and result in a premium finished product. 

Can wax rings be stacked on top of one another to make up for the extra space between the toilet bowl and toilet flange, and still create a watertight seal?

No, Oatey does not recommend stacking two wax seals on top of each other. We recommend using a jumbo or extra-thick wax ring instead of the stacking method. Also consider raising the flange height with one of our spacer kits for a more reliable, long-lasting seal.

Related Resources

Blog

Wax vs. Non-Wax Toilet Seals: Which Should You Choose?

Read More

Case Study

Arcos Mechanical Depends on Offset Toilet Flange for Irregular Rough-Ins and Subfloor Constraints

Read More

Videos

How to Install a Wax Ring

View

View More