Guide For Toilet Selection

Rough-in

If you are replacing an existing toilet with a new one, or remodeling an existing bathroom, the single most important dimension that you need to know is the "rough-in" dimension.

 This is the dimension measured from the face of the wall to the center of the toilet's floor mounting bolts (center or the sewer outlet flange).  This is typically 12-inches for most toilets, but there are some that have a dimension of 10-inches or 14-inches.

If you are replacing an existing toilet, you can measure how much space you have between the back wall and the center of the mounting flange. If it is 12-inches, then make sure your new toilet has a "rough-in" dimension of 12-inches or smaller.

If you are remodeling or doing new construction, you will want to install the sewer mounting flange so that it matches the toilet you are purchasing.  If you are measuring from the wall studs, don't forget to take into account the width of the drywall (typically 1/2-inch).

Bowl and Height

Another dimension to consider is the height of the toilet seat. 

A standard height(from floor to top of seat) is 15 to 17 inches. An ADA (American with Disabilities Act) compliant height, is 17 to 19inches high.  These higher heights are referred to in the toilet industry as "comfort height", "right height", or "universal height" since they more closely resemble standard chair heights and are usually considered more comfortable for adults.  For elderly or those with bad knees; a higher toilet is generally easier to sit down and stand up from. Some brands also provide taller than 19-inch toilet heights.  

The dimensions of the toilet seat bowl should be looked at as well. An elongated toilet may be more comfortable, but can increase the space required by up to two inches.

For a slightly more modern look you might want to consider an Elongated Toilet.  These toilets have an egg-shaped bowl that is generally about two inches longer than the traditional round-shaped toilets.  The larger bowls make them more comfortable to use and easier to clean.  For these reasons they are often used in commercial settings.  However, they are more expensive than round-shaped toilets and require more space.

Clear space around a toilet

Putting a bathroom into a small space can add convenience and value to your home.  There are some dimensions that you should consider when considering a space for a bathroom.   You will need 2-ft minimum clear space in front of the toilet, and a minimum of 15-inches from the center of the toilet to the face of the water or obstruction (see 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code Section  402.5). 

If space is a concern in your bathroom a wall-mounted toilet can be a great alternative.  Locating the tank inside the wall can save you 9-12 inches of bathroom space.

Many toilet provide a "dual flush" option that is designed to save you water and money.  Two flushing option can be chosen for low flush volume (for urine) or high flush volume (for solids).  The flushing option can be chosen on activation buttons or on the flushing handle that has two positions.

Homeowners interested in conserving water to cut down monthly utility bills or perhaps to limit their impact on the environment should consider a low-flush toilet.   Toilets generally account for 30% of home water use, so upgrading to water efficient toilets can save you water and money.  In 1992, legislation was passed that required all toilets sold in the USA to meet the standard of 1.6 gallons per flush (older toilets use as much as 6 gallons per flush (gpf)).  A toilet that meets the EPA's WaterSense criteria uses only 1.28 gpf (or lower) while still providing equal or superior performance. 

Low-flow toilets use either a gravity-assisted or pressure-assisted model to flush the water. Some common complaints about low-flow toilets include louder flushing sounds with the pressure-assisted system, an increase in clogs and plumbing issues if not operated properly, and plumbing incompatibility in older homes. 

Replacing an old inefficient toilet with a WaterSense model can save the average family an estimate $140 per year in water costs (EPA).

There are a lot of different looks when it comes to toilets. One of the first things to consider is what material and color appeal to you.  While most toilets come in the white porcelain variety, there are several alternatives including wood and metal toilets. 

Another aesthetic to consider is the shape of the toilet.  Do you prefer an elongated, oval shaped seat or a smaller, rounder standard seat?  Larger individuals generally prefer the comfort of an elongated bowl, while children or smaller individuals may prefer the round bowl.  Whatever option you choose, make sure that your toilet seat matches the bowl shape.

If having a more modern look is important, you might consider a wall-mounted, smart-toilet, or bidet.