When designing or renovating a bathroom, choosing the right toilet is crucial. Two popular options are wall-hung toilets and floor-mounted toilets. Each has a unique advantages and drawbacks and the decision often depends on your bathroom’s style, space and your personal preferences. In this blog, we will compare the pros and cons of wall-hung toilet versus floor-mounted toilets to help you make an informed decision.
A. What is Wall-hung Toilet?
A wall hung toilet, also known as a floating toilet, is a modern bathroom fixture mounted directly onto the wall. The tank and plumbing are hidden inside the wall, creating a sleek, minimalist look. The toilet bowl is mounted on the wall, which provides a unique aesthetic and makes cleaning easier. Wall-hung toilets are designed to give the illusion of more space in the bathroom, making them an excellent choice for small bathrooms.
Key Features
- The tank is concealed behind the wall, offering a more sleek appearance.
- The toilet appears to float above the floor, introducing a sleek vibe to any bathroom.
- Wall-hung toilets are space-saving, making them ideal for smaller bathrooms.
- Wall-hung toilets allow for customizable installation heights to accommodate different users, which is perfectly useful for those with mobility issues.
Pros of Wall-Hung Toilets
1. Modern and Stylish Design
Wall-hung toilets are a great choice if you’re looking to create a sleek, minimalist bathroom design. The floating look adds a touch of elegance and can make your bathroom feel more modern and open. This modern design can elevate the overall look of your bathroom and is a great option if you’re aiming for a trendy or luxury aesthetic.
2. Space-Saving
Wall-hung toilets are particularly beneficial for smaller bathrooms. The absence of a big toilet base allows for more floor space, which can make your bathroom look bigger and more open. This can be a huge advantage, especially in apartments or homes where every inch of space counts.
3. Easy to Clean
Since the toilet is wall-mounted , the floor is free of bases or bolts, making cleaning easier. This makes cleaning the floor much easier and more hygienic, as there’s no hard-to-reach area where dirt can collect. The easy-to-clean feature is especially beneficial for bathrooms that are frequently used by multiple people.
4. Adjustable Height
Many wall-hung toilets allow you to adjust the height of the seat, making it more customizable for different users. This is a great feature if you have family members with physical disabilities or if you simply prefer a higher or lower seat for comfort.
Cons of Wall-Hung Toilets
1. Higher Cost
Wall-hung toilets tend to be more expensive than floor-mounted toilets. The installation is more complicated due to the need for a built-in carrier system, which adds to both the material and labor costs. The premium design and extra installation complexity contribute to this higher price point.
2. Complex Installation
Installing a wall-hung toilet is more complex than installing a floor-mounted one. The toilet’s carrier system must be securely attached to the wall, and plumbing has to be hidden within the wall, which may require a professional plumber. The process can take longer and involve additional costs.
3. Limited Weight Capacity
Since wall-hung toilets are mounted on the wall, they may have a lower weight capacity compared to floor-mounted toilets. It’s essential to choose a model that can support the weight of all users. However, most modern wall-hung toilets are designed to hold substantial weight, so it’s important to check the specifications before installation.
4. Potential for Plumbing Issues
If there are issues with the plumbing or tank inside the wall, repairs can be costly and inconvenient. Accessing the tank for maintenance can require significant effort. It’s important to have the system properly installed to minimize future issues.
B. What is Floor-mounted Toilet?
A floor-mounted toilet, commonly seen in traditional bathroom setups, is fixed directly to the floor. The tank and bowl are visible, and the plumbing runs along the floor. It is a more classic design and is typically more affordable than wall-hung toilets. Floor – mounted toilets are easy to install and require minimal maintenance, making them a popular choice for many homeowners.
Key Features
- Easy installation and less complex plumbing.
- The toilet bowl is firmly mounted on the floor, making it more stable.
- A more traditional look, with a variety of designs and styles to choose from.
- Available in multiple structures, floor mounted toilets can be customized to suit various bathroom layouts and design.
Pros of Floor-mounted Toilets
1. Affordable
Floor-mounted toilets are generally more budget-friendly than wall-hung toilets. They are easy to find and come in a wide variety of styles, making them a cost-effective option for most homeowners. Floor-mounted toilets are also less expensive to install compared to wall-hung toilets, making them a popular choice for those on a budget.
2. Simple Installation
Installing a floor-mounted toilet is typically less complicated and faster. There’s no need for a built-in carrier system or hidden plumbing, which makes the process less expensive and time-consuming. The straightforward installation process makes it easier for self-installers to install the toilet themselves.
3. Sturdy and Reliable
Floor-mounted toilets are known for their stability. Because the toilet is firmly attached to the floor, it is unlikely to experience any issues with weight distribution, making it ideal for heavy-duty use. The durability and reliability of floor-mounted toilets make them a popular choice in homes with young children or elderly residents.
4. Easier Maintenance
Unlike wall-hung toilets, which may require specialized maintenance or plumbing work inside the wall, floor-mounted toilets are easier to access for repairs. Most issues are confined to the toilet itself or its direct connections to the plumbing, making repairs easier and less expensive.
Cons of Floor-mounted Toilets
1. Takes Up More Space
Floor-mounted toilets occupy more floor space than wall-hung models. This can be a disadvantage in smaller bathrooms where maximizing space is essential. In larger bathrooms, however, the floor-mounted toilet can complement the room’s layout without taking away from the design.
2. Difficult to Clean
The base of the toilet sits on the floor, which can make it harder to clean around. The area where the toilet meets the floor can collect dirt and stains over time, requiring more repeated cleaning. This can be a consideration if you’re looking for a low-maintenance solution.
3. Traditional Look
While floor-mounted toilets are available in various styles, they tend to provide a more classic, heavier look. This might not align with the sleek, modern look that some homeowners desire. However, there are many stylish floor-mounted options available that can suit both modern and traditional bathrooms.
4. Not as Customizable
Floor-mounted toilets typically don’t offer the same adjustable height options as wall-hung models. This can make them less adaptable for certain users who prefer a customized seat height.
Which Toilet is Best for Your Bathroom?
Choosing between a wall-hung and a floor-mounted toilet depends on your priorities:
- Choose a wall-hung toilet if you want a modern, sleek design, easy cleaning, and space-saving benefits. They are perfect for trendy bathrooms and smaller spaces but come at a higher cost and installation complexity.
- Choose a floor-mounted toilet if you prefer a traditional design, ease of installation, and a more budget-friendly option. While they take up more space and require more maintenance, they are a solid choice for larger bathrooms or if you’re looking for a more affordable solution.
Both wall-hung and floor-mounted toilets have their distinct advantages and challenges. The choice comes down to your bathroom’s size, design preferences, and budget. By weighing the pros and cons of each type, you can make the right decision for your home and lifestyle.
If you’re still unsure, consider consulting a bathroom designer or plumber who can help you decide based on your specific needs and space. Francoware provides both wall-hung and floor-mounted commodes, ensuring that you’ll find a high-quality option that suits your bathroom.