When it comes to designing a bathroom, one aspect that can get overlooked is the toilet. We know that sounds silly, right? The toilet is such a key part of the bathroom, however choosing a stylish toilet is often overshadowed by picking out the bathtub style or the colour of the shower tiles. However, the type of toilet you choose can have a big impact on your bathroom’s aesthetic.
One type of toilet that is becoming increasingly popular is the wall hung toilet. These sleek, modern marvels have taken the bathroom design world by storm, but before you take the plunge and invest in a wall hung toilet, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons. Let’s take a closer look into what makes these toilets so appealing and whether they might be the right fit for your bathroom.
What is a wall hung toilet?
A wall hung toilet is just what it sounds like: a toilet that’s mounted on the wall instead of sitting on the floor. The tank is cleverly hidden within the wall, so all you see is the bowl and the flush plate. This design creates a clean, streamlined look that can make even a small bathroom feel more spacious.
What are the pros of wall hung toilets?
Let’s kick things off with why you should go for a wall hung toilet:
Stylish and modern
Let’s face it, wall hung toilets look pretty cool – if cool could be used to describe a toilet! Their minimalist design gives your bathroom a modern, updated vibe. If you’re aiming for that sleek, contemporary look, a wall hung toilet is the perfect addition to your bathroom.
Easy to clean
Cleaning around a traditional toilet can be a real pain, right? With a wall hung toilet, the floor underneath is completely clear, making it that much easier to clean. Plus, the smooth design means fewer spots for dust and grime to hide away.
Customisable height
Did you know you can install a wall hung toilet at the height that suits you best? Whether you want it a bit higher for easy access or lower for the kids, you can customise it to fit your needs perfectly. This is especially useful for older individuals and those with mobility issues or a disability.
What are the cons of wall hung toilets?
Of course, at Alan Heath & Sons, we always like to give you both the cons and pros about bathroom design choices so you can make an informed decision. With that in mind, here are the cons of wall hung toilets:
Higher costs
Wall hung toilets are usually more expensive than regular toilets. And it’s not just the toilet itself – the installation can also be pricier because it’s a bit more complex. You’ll likely need a professional plumber to get the job done right.
Complicated installation
Speaking of installation, wall hung toilets aren’t the easiest DIY project. The wall needs to be sturdy enough to support the toilet and house the hidden tank. This often means reinforcing the wall, which can add to the complexity and cost. They also take more time to install, because of factors like these.
Maintenance access
While the hidden tank looks great, it can be a bit of a hassle if something goes wrong. Accessing the tank for maintenance or repairs isn’t as straightforward as with a traditional toilet. All of the hidden cisterns we install have access through the front panel and believe it or not, we can change all of the components through this hole. It’s a little bit trickier though and may require someone who knows their stuff, so it’s worth keeping maintenance in mind if you’d like one a wall hung toilet in your bathroom.
What should I consider before getting a wall hung toilet?
If you want a wall hung toilet you first need to think about:
Your bathroom layout
Before you get too excited about a wall hung toilet, take a good look at your bathroom layout. The wall where you want to mount the toilet needs to be able to support it and accommodate the hidden tank. Sometimes this means extra construction work, which can add to the cost.
Budget
It’s important to consider your budget. Wall hung toilets are an investment – they look great and save space, but they normally do come with a higher price tag. Make sure to factor in both the cost of the toilet and the installation when looking at prices.
Future maintenance
Don’t forget to think about the long term. While wall hung toilets are generally reliable, any future repairs to the hidden components will typically require a professional, which can add to the cost over time. We always recommend spending a little bit more on a quality concealed cistern than a cheap one. We have heard so many times that ‘the cistern is going to be hidden so it only needs to be a cheap one’. This is all the more reason to have a quality item if it is hidden away, as it is far less likely to give you any grief than if you go for the cheapest one possible.
So, should you buy a wall hung toilet?
It really comes down to what you value most in your bathroom. If you love the idea of a modern, minimalist look and have the budget for professional installation, a wall hung toilet could be perfect for you. The space-saving benefits and ease of cleaning are major pluses that can make your bathroom both beautiful and functional.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option or prefer a simpler installation process, a traditional floor-mounted toilet might be the way to go. It’s all about finding the right balance for your needs and your bathroom aesthetic preferences.
Got more questions about wall hung toilets or bathroom renovations? Contact our friendly team today, we’d love to help you create the bathroom of your dreams!