What to Consider When Buying a New Toilet

When it’s time to replace your aging bathroom fixture, it’s important to consider a few key factors before making a commitment. Whether you’re outfitting an entirely new bathroom or simply renovating, the right toilet can make all the difference. Here is what you need to consider when selecting a new toilet:

1. Budget

As with any purchase, it’s important to determine your budget for the purchase. Toilets range from economical models with basic features to luxury models. Knowing what you can afford is the first step in shopping for a toilet.

2. Toilet Height

The most common types of toilets are standard, chair-height, or comfort-height. Standard height, or the ‘normal’ height, of a toilet is about 15” high, while chair-height is at 17”, and comfort-height is 19”, similar to the height of a chair. Consider how comfortable you want your bathroom experience to be.

3. Shape

Toilets come in two distinct bowl shapes: round and elongated. Elongated bowls are typically around 2” longer than round bowls and tend to provide a more comfortable seating experience. They are the standard in the USA, but the round bowl is a better choice in tight spaces.

4. Features

• Flush Technology: Choose from standard gravity-fed flushing, pressure-assisted flushing, or dual-flush systems to find the best flushing performance for your needs.

• Toilet Bowl: Select an appropriate capacity for your bowl and choose from ceramic or plastic material.

• Seat: Standard plastic is the least expensive and most common, but upped options like deluxe molded wood or antimicrobial plastic are also available.

• Finish: Choose from a basic white or go for a bold statement with a colored or frosted bowl.

When shopping for a new toilet, you want to select an affordable and comfortable seat, an efficient flush system, and material and finish that suit your space. Consider your budget, toilet height, shape, and features as you weigh your options and shop around. Making decisions about home renovations and purchases can be an expensive and tedious process. For many homeowners, buying a new toilet is one of the most daunting tasks in the home improvement process. With so many options available, it’s important to know the features and functions of a toilet before you buy. Here’s what to consider when buying a new toilet.

Style and Design: Choose a toilet that fits in with the design of your bathroom. A modern toilet can help to create a contemporary atmosphere similar to that of a spa. Traditional toilets are available in a range of colors and styles, from classic white to modern black. Toilets come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so measure the area carefully before you buy to ensure that your toilet fits perfectly in your bathroom.

Flush: When it comes to the flush system, you should consider your water usage, as well as the toilets efficiency. High efficiency toilets are 20 percent more efficient than traditional toilets. Some models also feature dual-flush systems, which allow you to choose a stronger flush for solid waste and a gentler flush for liquids, thereby saving on water.

Height: Comfort is a key factor when it comes to picking a toilet. Standard height toilets are typically 15-17 inches from the floor to the seat. If you are looking for a more comfortable option, consider opting for a taller toilet, typically 17-19 inches from the floor to the seat, as it can provide more legroom and make using the toilet more comfortable.

Price: The price of a toilet usually depends on the size, style, and features. Generally, a basic-model toilet can cost from $125-$250, while higher-end models can cost up to $1,000 or more. It’s important to consider your budget when buying a new toilet.

Installing the Toilet: When you purchase a new toilet, you will also need to decide how the toilet will be installed. This is an important consideration as it can affect the cost of the installation. Toilets can be wall mounted or mounted to the floor. Wall-mounted toilets are more expensive but they tend to be more stylish and easier to maintain.

Buying a new toilet doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By considering the style, flush, height, price, and installation of the toilet, you can find a toilet that looks great and is comfortable to use.