Wall-hung toilets are quickly gaining popularity in modern bathrooms, admired for their sleek appearance and innovative design. Often found in stylish homes and chic commercial spaces, they offer a contemporary alternative to traditional floor-mounted toilets. But are they the right choice for you?
This guide from Asturias Bathrooms dives into what a wall-hung toilet is, the advantages and drawbacks, and what you should consider before installation. By the end, you'll have everything you need to determine whether this trendy toilet fits your bathroom needs.
What is a Wall-Hung Toilet?
A wall-hung toilet is a type of toilet that's mounted on the wall, leaving the floor space beneath it clear. Unlike designs like Close Coupled Toilets, which sit directly on the floor with a visible base, wall-mounted toilets are installed with their cisterns concealed within the wall. Only the bowl and the flush plate are visible, creating a clean and minimalist look.
This design might seem futuristic, but the concept is well-established in many parts of Europe and Asia. Its popularity stems from both style and practicality, as wall-hung toilets can make a dramatic difference in how your bathroom functions and feels.
Advantages of a Wall-Hung Toilet
1. Space-Saving Design
Wall-hung toilets are a game-changer for smaller bathrooms or en-suites where every inch matters. By concealing the cistern within the wall and eliminating the toilet base, they free up valuable floor space, giving your bathroom a more open and spacious feel.
2. Modern and Sleek Aesthetics
Minimalism is at the heart of many contemporary bathrooms, and a wall-hung toilet ticks all the right boxes. The floating effect adds a clean, sophisticated look and the concealed cistern means fewer bulky elements are visible.
3. Adjustable Height
Unlike traditional toilets, which come at a fixed height, wall-mounted toilets can be installed at a height that suits your preferences. Whether you want a standard height or something a bit taller for added comfort, the choice is yours.
4. Easier Floor Cleaning
Because wall-hung toilets don't touch the floor, you get clear access beneath the bowl. This makes it significantly easier to clean the area, preventing dust, dirt, and bacteria from gathering around the base. Households and commercial spaces alike will appreciate this reduced cleaning effort.
5. Quieter Flush Systems
Wall-hung toilets are often paired with in-wall cisterns that include noise-reducing technology, such as the Scudo WC Frame and Cistern. This makes them ideal for homes where peace and quiet are a priority, such as in compact living spaces or shared accommodations.
Disadvantages of a Wall-Hung Toilet
While wall-hung toilets bring numerous benefits, they're not without their challenges. Here are the key drawbacks to keep in mind.
1. Higher Installation Costs
Installing a wall-mounted toilet typically costs more than a standard toilet. This is largely due to the additional construction work required to conceal the cistern and plumbing within the wall, which may involve adjusting the wall structure itself.
2. More Complex Installation Process
Traditional toilets are relatively straightforward to install. A wall-hung toilet, however, requires experienced professionals who can ensure it's mounted securely to a sturdy frame and meets plumbing standards. This adds time and labour to the installation process.
3. Potential Access Issues for Repairs
With the cistern installed inside the wall, accessing it in the event of a malfunction can be challenging. While most modern systems include an access panel behind the flush plate, complex repairs may require cutting into the wall, which could further increase costs.
4. Weight Limitations
Wall-hung toilets are robust and designed to handle most users, but their weight capacity is lower than traditional floor-mounted models. Typically, they support up to 90 to 230 kilograms. Households with heavier users might want to consider this limitation before committing to an installation.
5. Are Wall-Hung Toilets Harder to Maintain?
Maintenance can sometimes be a concern with wall-hung toilets. While cleaning the bowl is easier due to the raised design, accessing hidden plumbing components may complicate occasional repairs or replacements.
6. Do Wall-Hung Toilets Leak?
Like traditional toilets, wall-hung toilets can leak if not installed or maintained properly. The most common issue is a leak within the concealed cistern or between the flush plate and wall. Choosing a high-quality cistern from a trusted manufacturer and ensuring professional installation can significantly reduce these risks.
Installation Considerations
Structural Requirements
Wall-hung toilets require a reinforced wall to support the weight of the toilet and user. If your bathroom walls aren't strong enough, additional framing will need to be added during installation. This may not be feasible in older buildings where structural adjustments are difficult.
Expertise
Installing a wall-mounted toilet isn't a typical DIY job. Hiring a licensed plumber and builder ensures the toilet is securely mounted, properly aligned, and compliant with regulations. This is crucial for long-term durability and peace of mind.
Planning for Access
If space permits, it's wise to include an access panel in the design. This panel allows for easier repairs and maintenance, saving time and money in the long run.
Maintenance Tips
Here are some practical tips to prolong the lifespan of your wall-hung toilet and ensure smooth operation over the years:
- Inspect the Flush Plate: Regularly check the flush plate and its seals to prevent minor leaks from escalating.
- Clean Regularly: Maintain the toilet bowl and surrounding wall area with non-abrasive cleaning products to keep them looking fresh.
- Schedule Periodic Checks: Have a qualified plumber inspect the concealed cistern every few years to ensure everything is functioning as it should.
- Use High-Quality Components: Invest in sturdy, reliable parts that reduce the likelihood of breakdowns, especially within the concealed cistern.
Is a Wall-Hung Toilet Right for You?
Deciding whether to install a wall-hung toilet comes down to your priorities. If you're looking for a sleek, modern aesthetic and want to save space in your bathroom, this could be the perfect solution. However, it's essential to weigh the initial installation costs and consider the long-term maintenance requirements.
For those who value expert guidance, opt for professional support when choosing and installing a wall-mounted toilet. At Asturias Bathrooms, we're here to help with trusted advice and a wide range of products to suit every bathroom. Browse our collection or get in touch with our team to make your vision a reality.
