There might be some people who don’t know that they need to buy the right type of toilet for their bathroom. They simply go into a big box store, pick out a brand new toilet, take it home and then find that it doesn’t work the way it should. Here’s why.
The Wrong Rough-in Distance
The rough-in distance is the length of the wall to the center of the anchor bolt on the toilet, which is covered by a that porcelain or plastic cap on the toilet’s base. The rough-in distance on most toilets is 12 inches, but this isn’t universal. Make sure you carefully measure the space before you buy your new toilet. If the rough-in distance is wrong, you’re going to have to take the new toilet back.
The Bowl Is the Wrong Shape
A toilet bowl can actually be the wrong shape. Toilets with long, more ovate bowls take up more space than tidy round bowls. Because of that, long toilet bowls in a tiny bathroom can interfere with the door to the bathroom, the door to a closet or the door to the shower stall. They might not even be comfortable for some people to sit on.
The Toilet Is the Wrong Height
A standard toilet bowl is 15 inches high, but what’s called a comfort toilet bowel is between 17 and 19 inches high. A higher bowl may be difficult for little children to scramble up on and may leave a shorter adult with their feet dangling. On the other hand, a very tall person may find the standard height uncomfortable. Talk to a plumber to help work out the best height for your household.
The Toilet Is Hard to Clean
A toilet fitted with all kinds of bells and whistles, such as heated seats, LED lighting, an integral sink, a lid that lowers and raises by remote control may be harder to clean and maintain. A toilet with a complex design, such as a base or pedestal carved to look like acanthus leaves, may also be a chore to keep clean.
The Toilet Was Badly Made
A cheap toilet may seem irresistible, especially if you need a replacement right away. However, you get what you pay for. A shoddily made toilet made with inferior materials and craftsmanship is going to leak, crack and break down faster than it should, and you’ll have to buy another sooner than you’d like.
Call the Experts If You’re in the Market for a New Toilet
You’ll need a new toilet bowl if your old one is too old, broken or unsightly. If you need help renovating or buying a toilet that’s just right for your Charleston, SC home, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the team at Charleston Bath Experts.