If you’re getting a new toilet, there are a few things you should know. Many people make the mistake of believing that all toilets are the same size. This isn’t true and it’s important to know how toilets differ.
It also depends on your meaning of the “same size”.
- Do you mean the height and width of toilets?
- Do you mean the distance from the pipe to the wall (aka the rough in)?
- Are you referring to old toilets and new toilets?
The size of the toilet will differ depending on your meaning and in this article, we’ll take a closer look at the sizes of toilets and what you should look for.
A casual look at toilets would lead you to assume that all toilets are the same. They almost all white, most have square tanks and rounded bowls, and they are very close in size and shape.
There are, however, a few subtle differences you should know before you buy a new toilet. The first thing you should know is the measurement of the “rough in”.
You need to know this size before shopping. The second thing you need to consider is how much space you have. The space in a bathroom may be limited and you’ll need to decide on a round or elongated bowl.
Other important things to consider are the type of toilet, 1-piece or 2-piece, and whether the toilet is old or new (size will differ depending on the generation of toilet).
Let’s jump in and discuss the various sizes of toilets.
Most (But Not All) Toilets Are The Same Size and Interchangeable
There are a lot of products on the market that have unique parts – take cell phones for example. These parts, that are unique to the brand, make the product difficult and expensive to fix. It can be a hassle.
The great thing about toilets is that most parts are compatible with brands of toilets. Furthermore, all brands of toilets are made to fit the pipes in your house.
Below, we’ll discuss a few reasons why toilets aren’t the same size.
-
Rough In
The “rough in” is a term that describes the distance from the wall to the pipe in your floor. The measurement is simple and it can be done with your existing toilet on (read my article with pictures about measuring the rough in).
Most American toilets will be 12”, however, it’s always wise to double check. A few rough ins will measure 10” and 14”.
This is the only size difference you need to know for plumbing. The other differences below will be aesthetic, comfort, and space.
-
Elongated or Round
The terms “elongated” and “round” refer to the size and shape of the bowl. An elongated bowl will be 2-3 inches longer, while a round bowl will be smaller and provide more space.
Taller and larger people will appreciate an elongated bowl, however, a round bowl will be better for bathrooms with less space.
The difference between bowl sizes are subtle yet important to know if you are tall or lack space.
-
Extra Tall
An extra tall toilet is another size difference in toilets. The industry term is known as the “comfort height”.
Most regular height toilets measure 14-15 inches from the floor to the top of the bowl. Comfort height toilets measure 17-19 inches and are great for people who have a difficult time sitting and standing from a seated position.
Some people believe that taller toilets make it more difficult to go the bathroom (thank goodness for the Squatty Potty)
The bowl height size difference shouldn’t be a big concern compared to the length and width of a bowl. The length and width will be specific to each toilet model and it’s important to make sure you have adequate lateral space.
-
Material (Porcelain or Plastic)
In most instances, you’ll be using a porcelain toilet. There will be plenty of options available and the differences will be minor.
If you are choosing to use a compost toilet or a special toilet for a cabin or recreational vehicle (RV), the material might be plastic.
>> learn why are toilets always white
A plastic toilet may or may not have the same dimensions as a regular toilet. Check plastic toilets carefully to understand its size.
-
1-Piece, 2-Piece, or Wall
The size of a toilet will also depend on whether it’s a 1-piece or 2-piece. A 1-piece toilet is usually more sleek and modern in its appearance, however, it will be heavier to move around and install.
A wall hung toilet will be a much smaller size and often uses a hidden tank in the wall. Wall hung toilets are great for people wanting a smaller toilet but it will cost you.
Most toilets are 2 pieces and they can be attached to one another after the bowl has been installed.
The size of a 1-piece or 2-piece won’t differ too much. Check the dimensions of the toilet you prefer and make sure it will fit well in your bathroom (my best tips on choosing a new toilet).
-
Old and New (Water Efficiency)
Newer toilets have come a long way in their design. Some new toilets actually look great!
But the biggest difference between new and old toilets is the tank size. Ingenuity, spurred by regulation and environmental conservation, has led companies to utilize less water (there’s a huge difference in water use from old and new toilets).
As a result, the tank is a smaller size than what you’d see on older toilets. If you’re replacing an old toilet, chances are your new toilet will be a smaller size, and more water efficient – saving you space and money.
Conclusion
Not all toilets are the same size. Although the size differences are subtle, it’s important to know a few of the specifics before you buy a new toilet.
Above all, make sure you know the rough in measurement. Once you know the rough in you can narrow down your choices easily and choose one that fits the width, length, and height you desire.
Depending on your personal preference and the size of your bathroom, you might opt for an elongated or round toilet, an extra tall toilet.
When you start looking, you’ll notice many small differences between toilets. If you’re planning a toilet project, check out my other articles to learn more. Thanks for visiting.