When choosing between a wall-mounted toilet and a floor-standing toilet, there are several advantages and disadvantages to consider. A wall-mounted toilet creates a more spacious look and makes it easier to clean the floor. Additionally, it gives your bathroom a modern and sleek appearance.
On the other hand, a floor-standing toilet is often cheaper and easier to install. These toilets are usually compatible with most bathrooms, which can be convenient if you live in an older house. However, a floor-standing toilet takes up more space and can be harder to keep clean.
When weighing the pros and cons, you should consider what best suits your situation.
Toilet Types
Wall-Mounted Toilet
A wall-mounted toilet, also known as a wall-hung toilet, is attached to the wall. This type of toilet offers a more modern appearance and gives your bathroom a sleek and luxurious feel. The cistern is hidden behind the wall, which saves space. Since there is no visible tank, the overall aesthetic is enhanced.
Because the toilet "floats," cleaning becomes much easier. You can easily reach the floor underneath without any obstructions. Wall-mounted toilets come in various styles and finishes, making them a good fit for almost any bathroom design.
One potential downside of wall-mounted toilets is the installation process. It can be complex and expensive because the wall needs additional support. Furthermore, maintenance can be more challenging, especially if there’s an issue with the concealed cistern.
Floor-Standing Toilet
A floor-standing toilet is a traditional and very common type of toilet. This type is simple and quick to install, as it is placed directly on the floor and doesn’t require extra wall support. Floor-standing toilets are generally cheaper and easier to replace.
However, they can take up more space in your bathroom, which can be a disadvantage in smaller areas. Additionally, the visible cistern may make your bathroom look less sleek. Despite this, floor-standing toilets are often sturdier and less prone to technical issues compared to their wall-mounted counterparts.
Floor-standing toilets come in various styles and sizes, including compact models designed specifically for smaller bathrooms. They are easy to maintain, as the parts are readily accessible and not hidden behind walls.
Advantages and Disadvantages of a Wall-Mounted Toilet
Advantages of a Wall-Mounted Toilet
Space-Saving: A wall-mounted toilet takes up less space because it is suspended, and the water tank is built into the wall. This makes your bathroom feel more spacious and easier to clean.
Modern and Stylish: Wall-mounted toilets have a sleek and modern look, giving your bathroom a luxurious and contemporary feel that is popular in modern home designs.
Hygiene and Maintenance: Since a wall-mounted toilet does not touch the floor, the area around it is easier to clean, resulting in better hygiene. Additionally, some models feature a rimless flush system that reduces the likelihood of bacteria buildup.
Practical: It is easier to clean the floor under and around a wall-mounted toilet, which is a significant advantage in households where hygiene is important.
Disadvantages of a Wall-Mounted Toilet
Installation Costs: Installing a wall-mounted toilet is generally more expensive than a floor-standing toilet due to the necessary wall modifications and the installation of the concealed water tank.
Maintenance and Repair: If something goes wrong with the water tank or flush mechanism, repairs can be more difficult and costly, often requiring the removal of tiles or wall panels.
Stability and Load Capacity: Although wall-mounted toilets are designed to be sturdy, they must be correctly installed to ensure their load-bearing capacity. Improper installation can lead to issues with stability and safety.
Advantages and Disadvantages of a Floor-Standing Toilet
Advantages of a Floor-Standing Toilet
Installation: One of the main advantages of a floor-standing toilet is the simple installation. Since these toilets are placed directly on the floor, you don’t have to worry about the strength of the wall or supporting structures.
Cost: Floor-standing toilets are usually cheaper than wall-mounted toilets, making them a budget-friendly choice for renovations or new construction projects.
Sturdiness: They are often robust and durable. The sturdy construction can better withstand heavy use.
Maintenance: In terms of maintenance, a floor-standing toilet can sometimes be easier. Access to the drain and water supply is often simpler because they are directly accessible from the floor.
Disadvantages of a Floor-Standing Toilet
Size: A disadvantage of a floor-standing toilet is that it takes up more floor space. This can make the bathroom feel smaller, especially in tighter spaces.
Hygiene: In terms of hygiene, floor-standing toilets can sometimes be less optimal. It can be harder to thoroughly clean around the base, which can lead to the buildup of dirt and bacteria.
Installation
Installing both a wall-mounted toilet and a floor-standing toilet involves specific steps and requirements. Let's discuss the important aspects of the installation process for both types of toilets.
Installing a Wall-Mounted Toilet
The installation of a wall-mounted toilet involves several crucial steps:
- In-Wall Cistern: A key component is the in-wall cistern. This cistern is installed within the wall and provides support. Ensure that the wall is strong enough to bear the weight of the toilet and its user.
- Wall Frame: Since the cistern is inside the wall, a wall frame is required. This frame provides a neat finish and additional support.
- Drain Connection: The drain for a wall-mounted toilet must be precisely connected to the existing sewer pipe.
- Toilet Installation: The toilet itself is attached to the in-wall cistern. This requires precise alignment and secure fastening.
- Control Panel: The flush button or control panel is typically mounted on the wall frame and connected to the in-wall cistern.
Installing a Floor-Standing Toilet
Installing a floor-standing toilet is less complex than installing a wall-mounted toilet. Here are the main steps:
- Drain and Water Connection: Ensure that the drain and water connections are ready. The drain is usually located directly beneath the toilet but can sometimes be placed in the wall.
- Toilet Installation: Place the toilet over the drain, ensuring it is securely fastened. Attach the toilet firmly to the floor using screws.
- Attaching the Cistern: Attach the cistern to the back of the toilet.
- Connecting the Water Supply: Connect the water supply line to the cistern and ensure there are no leaks. Test the system thoroughly to prevent any issues.
Design and Style
A wall-mounted toilet often creates a more spacious look since it doesn’t sit directly on the floor. This floating appearance contributes to a modern and stylish bathroom. It also gives a more open effect, which is particularly useful in smaller bathrooms.
A floor-standing toilet has a more traditional appearance. For some, this classic look better suits their existing bathroom decor. The choice between a wall-mounted and a floor-standing toilet often depends on personal preferences and the desired aesthetic of the bathroom.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a wall-mounted toilet suitable for every bathroom?
Yes, you can install a wall-mounted toilet in almost any bathroom. It is especially useful in small bathrooms because it takes up less space. However, ensure that the wall is strong enough to support the toilet.
How sturdy are wall-mounted toilets for daily use?
Wall-mounted toilets are very sturdy and can handle daily use well. They are securely attached to the wall with a special frame, which is often mounted within the wall. This frame can support a lot of weight, similar to floor-standing toilets.
What should you consider when installing a wall-mounted toilet?
When installing a wall-mounted toilet, pay attention to the strength of the wall. Use a strong mounting frame. Check that the pipes and drain are properly placed. Also, make sure everything is level, so the toilet functions properly and looks neat.
