Nowadays, there are several options to choose from when it comes to toilets. From the standard toilets to more modern ones, choosing is not just based on aesthetics. For example, traditional toilets utilize a gravity-assisted system, while modern commodes feature a pressure-assisted flushing system. Also, we have the back-to-wall and wall-mounted toilets, which are the primary variants today.
What is a Back to Wall Toilet?
A back-to-wall toilet places its water tank or cistern behind the toilet bowl. It is typically in the form of a large unit, or it can be hidden within the wall. Back-to-wall style toilets can help save space in your restroom and feature a modern and minimalistic design.
What is a Wall-Hung Toilet?
The wall-hung or wall-mounted toilet is a modern commode that attaches to the wall, as the name implies. What this means is that this type of commode takes zero floor space in the bathroom. Thus, you can see why wall-hung toilets are quickly becoming quite popular in the U.S. due to their innovative and contemporary design. Also, since the water tank is concealed into the wall, the wall-mounted commode offers far more space-saving capability.
So, between these two types of toilets, which one should you pick? Well, to help you make a decision, we compiled all the essential factors that you should consider when choosing between the two. Below are the advantages and disadvantages attributed to each commode type. Well, then, let us begin.
Advantages of Back to Wall Toilets
Back-to-wall toilets are pretty popular due to their compact design, accommodating smaller homes and apartments. Now, here are some of the most notable advantages of this type of toilet:
- Sleek and Compact Design
One of the primary reasons you should choose a back-to-wall toilet is its sleek and compact design. Since the water tank will be hidden behind a false wall or cabinet, you will maximize the floor space in the restroom while also enhancing the aesthetics. Additionally, the cabinet where the cistern will be placed or concealed comes in various design options.
- Space-Saving
With the cistern taking up less space as it installs into the wall, you can further optimize floor space and keep a more modern and minimalist aesthetic to your restroom.
- Ergonomic Design
The typical design of the back-to-wall toilet focuses on ergonomics, which means it is sleeker and designed for comfort.
Disadvantages of Back to Wall Toilets
Of course, it is not always sunshine and rainbows, as is the case with all things. Despite having some excellent pros, the back to wall toilet also comes with some drawbacks.
- Difficult Installation
As you can guess by the need to incorporate a false wall and a cabinet, installing a back-to-wall commode will take experienced hands to accomplish. Not only can the installation be a bit complicated, but repairs needed to the cistern in the future might also pose a challenge if the design is not fully optimized.
- Can Be Quite Expensive
Compared to standard commodes, a back-to-wall toilet can be significantly more expensive because it is a more specialized type of toilet. Also, the installation will require a professional to accomplish, which will add to the overall cost.
The top wall-mounted toilets will generally cost at least double the price of a standard floor mount toilet since you need to add the cost of the in-wall tank and carrier system and the increased costs as this requires a professional plumber. You can expect to pay at least $250-300 for the carrier frame plus installation.
In contrast, a back-to-wall is a simple DIY install that doesn’t require any professional plumbing skills.
Advantages of Wall-Hung Toilet
The wall-hung or wall-mounted toilet is a modern type of commode that is quickly gaining popularity in the U.S. due to its innovative and practical design. Being that the toilet bowl attaches to the wall, it does not take up any floor space. Well, that is not the only thing that wall-mounted toilets can deliver. Here are the reasons why you should choose this type of commode:
- Optimum Space Saving Design
Since the bowl will be bolted to the wall, it won’t even be touching the surface. This feature means that the wall-hung commode takes up zero floor space. In addition, the cistern will also be concealed within a second wall, similar to the back to wall toilet, further enhancing its overall space-saving capability.
- Easy to Clean
The wall-mounted toilet is incredibly easy to clean since you won’t need to skirt around the bowl, making what was once hard to reach places accessible. You can easily mop the entire bathroom floor in minutes, which is always a good thing.
- Modern Minimalist Design
Like the back-to-wall toilet, the wall-mounted version also incorporates a false wall to hide the water tank and plumbing system. This aspect allows the wall-hung toilet to exude that minimalist appeal, which will be quite appealing for those aiming for a contemporary interior aesthetic for their home.
- Design Variety
You will also appreciate the options available regarding the wall-mounted toilet’s design. There are a couple of styles to choose from, ranging from bowls that feature smooth ergonomic aesthetics to ones that feature an abstract style with its sharp square-shaped design.
See our top picks for the best wall-hung toilets.
Disadvantages of Wall-Hung Toilet
Similar to the back to wall toilet, the wall-mounted version also comes with its own set of drawbacks. Consider the following when choosing a wall hung commode for your bathroom.
- Difficult Installation
Both back to wall and wall-hung toilets require a professional to handle the installation as both are more difficult to mount than conventional commodes. In addition, take into account the fact that you will need to remove the drywall for the cistern. There are also steel bar frames that will mount the bowl to the wall. If the installation is not handled correctly, problems will surely soon arise with your wall-mounted toilet.
- Screws Loosening Overtime
The mounted toilet bowl will need to properly support weight daily, which can lead to the bolts loosening over time. While this can be prevented with proper installation, it is still an issue that might arise in the future.
- Maintenance and Repair Difficulties
The water tank and plumbing system won’t be as accessible because it is concealed behind a false wall. Without proper access panels, repairs and maintenance can be extremely difficult. We highly recommend you place at least three access panels on the false wall to access critical components if need be.
- Expensive
While the three major components (bowl, tank, and carrier) are relatively affordable, you must include the installation fee into the equation. Since wall-hung toilets will require the drywall to be taken down, you can expect to shell out a considerable amount for this process.
Conclusion: Which One Should You Choose?
I lean towards the wall-hung commode due to its more contemporary aesthetic and charm. That said, a major deciding factor is how much available space you have, your budget and your personal preference. No matter which one you choose, it is vital that you pick the one made from high-grade material and trusted toilet manufacturers.
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