Choosing a new toilet for your home is more complicated than randomly choosing one at your local big box store. All toilets are not the same and since most toilets last for many years, it makes sense to spend a few minutes comparing features to get the right toilet for your home.
One of the first things to look at is how much clearance you have from the wall behind the toilet. The standard distance from the wall to the toilet bolts (called the “rough-in” distance) is 12 inches. Some small bathrooms may be designed for a compact toilet with a 10 inch rough in. Some toilet models will only fit in a space larger than the standard dimensions. Be sure to check the distance to avoid having to return a toilet that is too big for the available space.
Next, do you want a round or elongated bowl? Round bowls are a little more compact and take up less space, but some people prefer the extra room at the front of the bowl offered by elongated bowls.
Height of the seat is another concern. The standard height of the toilet bowl rim is 15 inches, but some toilets are designed to be a little taller. Toilet height is mostly a matter of personal preference.
Finally, do you prefer a one piece or a two piece toilet? A two piece toilet is the traditional design with a separate bowl and tank that are bolted together. A two piece toilet is a little easier to install because the bowl can be installed first and then the tank is bolted onto it. However, waste material can get into the area between the tank and the bowl and cause offensive odors. A one piece toilet has a sleek design that incorporates the tank and bowl in a single unit. These are very modern looking and avoid the odor problem inherent with a two piece design.
No matter what you are looking for in a toilet, you will be able to find one that meets your needs. Professional toilet installation by a good local plumber with experience in bathroom repairs will help ensure your toilet works great and lasts a long time.
