Choosing the right toilet is critical for function, comfort, and style. It doesn’t matter whether you are building a new home or renovating your current one. Here are some tips to follow.
Types of Toilets
Toilets, once considered a simple design, have evolved into a wide array of options, from basic to extravagant. When selecting a toilet, efficiency, style, and your unique needs should all come into play.
One-Piece vs. Two-Piece Toilets
One-piece toilets combine the tank and bowl into a single unit. Their design makes them easier to clean, as there are fewer seams where dirt and grime can accumulate. Additionally, one-piece toilets tend to be more durable since they have fewer parts and connections that could cause leaks. However, this increased durability typically comes with a higher price tag compared to two-piece toilets.
Two-piece toilets, which feature a separate tank and bowl, are the most common in homes. They are generally easier to transport and install because their components can be assembled on-site. They are also typically more affordable, making them a popular choice for homeowners.
Wall-Mounted Toilets
Wall-mounted toilets are gaining popularity in San Jose homes and businesses due to their sleek, modern design. These toilets save space by hiding the tank inside the wall, and they free up more room in the bathroom. The absence of a base also makes cleaning easier, as there are no areas for dust and debris to collect around the base of the toilet. However, wall-mounted toilets are more expensive to install than standard toilets due to the specialized labor involved in securing the unit to the wall and concealing the tank.
Composting Toilets
Composting toilets offer an eco-friendlier option by being waterless. These toilets use materials like sawdust, coconut coir, or peat moss to help break down human waste into compost. Composting toilets are an environmentally conscious choice and can help homeowners reduce water consumption and save on their water bills. With proper installation and maintenance, composting toilets do not emit unpleasant odors and can be a sustainable solution for off-grid living or environmentally focused homes.
Toilet Bowl Shape and Size
After determining the type of toilet that fits your needs, it is essential to consider the bowl shape and size. These factors directly impact the toilet’s aesthetics, comfort, and suitability for your bathroom space.
Round Bowls vs. Elongated
Round toilet bowls are ideal for smaller or compact spaces. Their smaller size makes them more space-efficient, which can be important in half-baths or bathrooms with limited square footage. However, round bowls may not provide the same level of comfort as elongated bowls, which offer a larger seating area. Elongated bowls are considered more comfortable by most users, particularly for those with mobility challenges. According to the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act), elongated bowls are often easier to use, providing more support and space.
Toilet Height Options
The height of your toilet plays a critical role in user comfort. Standard toilets typically stand at around 15 inches, which works well for most individuals. However, taller toilets are becoming more popular, particularly among older adults or those with mobility issues. Comfort-height toilets, which comply with ADA regulations, range between 17 to 19 inches in height. These toilets make it easier to sit down and stand up, reducing strain on the knees and hips. If you are looking to further increase comfort, you can also add a raised toilet seat to your existing toilet.
Rough-In Toilet Size
Before purchasing a toilet, you must measure the rough-in size of your bathroom. The rough-in is the distance from the wall to the toilet’s drainpipe. In most homes, the standard rough-in size is 12 inches, but some bathrooms may have rough-ins of 10 or 14 inches. Knowing your rough-in size is crucial when selecting a new toilet to ensure a proper fit.
Water Efficiency and Flushing Technology
Modern toilets are more water-efficient than ever, with advancements in flushing technology that help conserve water without sacrificing performance. Older toilets use as much as 3.5 gallons of water per flush (gpf), but newer models operate on as little as 1.28 gpf. For maximum efficiency, look for toilets that carry the EPA’s WaterSense label, indicating that the toilet uses at least 20% less water than the standard 1.6 gpf.
Single vs. Dual Flush
The type of flush mechanism in your toilet plays a significant role in water conservation. Single-flush toilets use the same amount of water for every flush, regardless of whether you are flushing liquid or solid waste. Dual-flush toilets, on the other hand, offer two flush options: a lower-volume flush for liquid waste and a full-volume flush for solid waste. According to the EPA, switching to a dual-flush toilet can reduce your water usage by up to 67%.
Pressure-Assisted vs. Gravity-Flush
Pressure-assisted toilets use pressurized air and water to create a powerful flush, making them more effective at preventing clogs than traditional gravity-flush toilets. However, they tend to be louder due to the force of the flush. A pressure-assisted toilet may be a better option if your home has older plumbing lines or lower water pressure, as the stronger flush can help reduce the likelihood of blockages.
Gravity-flush toilets, on the other hand, use the weight of the water to push waste down the drain. These toilets are quieter and work well for most modern plumbing systems. For many homeowners, gravity-flush toilets provide a sufficient and cost-effective solution.
Material and Durability
Most residential toilets are made of durable, non-porous materials that prevent stains and make cleaning easier. However, several other materials are available depending on your needs and style preferences.
Porcelain and Ceramic
Porcelain and ceramic are the most common materials used for residential toilets. These materials are resistant to stains and bacteria due to their smooth, non-porous surfaces. Porcelain toilets are durable and can last up to 30 years with proper maintenance.
Concrete
While less common in residential settings, concrete toilets are occasionally used in industrial spaces due to their durability. Concrete’s porous nature requires sealing to prevent bacteria buildup, making them less practical for homes.
Polymer Composite
Polymer composite toilets are lightweight and often used in RVs or other portable settings. While easy to move and install, these toilets lack the durability and longevity of porcelain toilets.
Wood Toilets
Wooden toilets are an unusual choice but are growing in popularity for minimalistic or eco-friendly bathroom designs. These toilets often have ceramic or composite internal components, while the outer shell is made of wood. Wood must be carefully sealed to prevent damage from moisture, and this makes these toilets more high-maintenance.
Additional Toilet Features to Consider
Toilets are no longer just functional; they can now come with a range of high-tech and comfort-enhancing features. Smart toilet features like bidet attachments can be beneficial for those with mobility challenges. Bidets reduce toilet paper usage and offer enhanced hygiene. Other features like self-cleaning mechanisms, hands-free operation, and soft-close lids can improve convenience and make the bathroom experience more enjoyable.
Seek a Professional Plumber for Toilet Installation
Professional plumbers can help you choose the right toilet to make certain that it fits the plumbing setup in your bathroom. They also provide expert installation services to secure the connections and prevent leaks. Proper venting is essential to prevent gas buildup and maintain efficient drainage.
Call Our Team
Installing a toilet is more complex than it may seem, involving precise measurements and securing the unit to avoid future issues. Plumbtree Plumbing & Rooter offers comprehensive plumbing services, from toilet installation and repair to water heater services, sump pump repair, and even EV station installation.
Contact Plumbtree Plumbing & Rooter in San Jose for expert advice and service. Let our skilled plumbers in San Jose, CA, help you choose and install the best toilet for your home.
