The DIYer’s Guide to Wall Hung Toilets
This article at a glance:
- Wall hung toilets are becoming an increasingly popular fixture in Canadian bathrooms.
- When selecting a wall-hung toilet, remember to consider the wall carrier, the bowl, and the additional wall plate for the flush buttons.
- Putting up a wall-mounted toilet needs a bit more effort, especially if you're switching from the regular floor-mount toilet.
- Maintenance and cleaning of wall hung toilets is a snap.
- Kohler, Gerberit, Duravit, and Toto are leading companies when it comes to wall hung toilets.
These days, the options for toilets are as diverse as ever. One of the coolest variations in town is the wall hung toilet, otherwise known as floating toilets, wall-mount toilets, or even in-wall toilet systems.
What sets wall hung toilets apart is their elegant, minimalist design. Most of the toilet's workings are hidden behind a bathroom wall. The toilet bowl itself is securely mounted on the wall, with all plumbing neatly hidden away.
In Europe, they've been installing wall-hung residential toilets for years. But here in Canada, we're just getting started. Granted, installing them takes a bit more ingenuity than the standard toilet. Still, if you do it right, you'll have a toilet that's as sturdy, safe, and reliable as they come. And they look fabulous.
What should you know about these wall hung wonders before you start your next bathroom reno? Let's get into the nitty-gritty of why they are appearing in more Canadians' bathrooms.
The Perks of Choosing a Wall Hung Toilet
So, what's so great about these wall hung toilets, and why are they catching on? Here are some reasons why:
- Modern aesthetic. They offer a sleek, contemporary look that complements various interior styles. And the best part is that there is no visible tank to mess up the streamlined appearance.
- Space saving. The primary advantage of wall hung toilets is their ability to save space. By tucking the tank inside the wall, you can free up precious bathroom real estate. Depending on the model, this could save you up to ten inches of space.
- Easy cleaning. Cleaning traditional floor-mounted toilets can be a chore, with all those nooks and crannies around the base. Wall hung toilets solve this problem. You can sweep or mop beneath them without any obstructions, making your cleaning routine a breeze.
- Custom height installation. Unlike traditional toilets with fixed heights, wall hung toilets allow you to customize the installation height. This is a fantastic feature, especially if you have family members of varying statures.
- Sound reduction. Choosing a wall hung toilet reduces noise in the bathroom. Lifting the toilet off the ground prevents bathroom sounds from going directly from the toilet to the floor below.
- Better hygiene. Wall hung toilets have less surface area exposed, as there is no tank or exposed pipework. This means less space for germs or dust to gather.
And here's a bonus: the concealed water tank helps keep your bathroom simple and easy to coordinate with the rest of your home, especially if you're into a minimalist, contemporary design. It's an excellent way to hide those big toilet tank eyesores and keep things looking sleek and clean.
The Inner Workings of Wall Hung Toilets
Let's take a look at the key components of a wall hung toilet, and the parts you'll need to buy - wall carriers, bowls, and flush plates.
Wall Carriers
The secret to a wall hung toilet is the steel-framed toilet carrier system that holds the water tank and all the mechanical parts. This system supports the weight of the bowl and is secured between the wall studs.
Kohler wall carrier
Selecting a wall-mount toilet carrier may require some quick research, but the main thing to keep in mind is that as long as the same company manufactures the wall carrier and the actuator plate, they are compatible.
Generally, manufacturers offer two sizes of wall carriers for installation in either 2x4 and 2x6 framed walls. Kohler makes wall carriers for different wall dimensions and a special one for their Veil intelligent wall hung toilets.
Geberit offers wall carriers for different types of construction and flush options, including dual flush models with different water volumes.
TOTO wall carriers are available with water-saving and dual flush options. There is also a carrier specifically designed for WASHLET bidet seats.
Duravit provides wall carriers for 2x4 and 2x6 construction and Grohe’s wall carrier is designed for 2x4 stud walls.
Toilet Bowl
Since the bowl of the wall hung toilet will be the only part visible outside of the wall, it's important to find a bowl that matches the look and the style of your bathroom. If you're worried about compatibility, remember that any two-bolt mounted bowl will work with any wall carrier we carry at Splashes Bath & Kitchen showrooms and Splashes.com.
A wall hung toilet bowl from Duravit
Duravit has many wall hung toilet bowl options available on Splashes Bath & Kitchen showrooms and Splashes.com. Kohler features their Veil® line of wall hung toilet bowls, and TOTO offers Tornado Flush® technology on theirs.
Flush Plate
The actuator plate or flush plate is a wall-mounted panel used to flush the toilet. They come in a variety of finishes and features. From single flush push button plates to dual flush for water conservation, there are even touchless plates that work with the wave of your hand.
Flush plate with dual flush buttons
Many dual-flush plates feature visual cues so that everyone instantly knows how to use it: press the small button to flush liquids and the large button to flush solids. It's intuitive, but it also happens to save thousands of gallons of water every year.
At Splashes Bath & Kitchen showrooms and Splashes.com you can see Duravit DuraSystem and Geberit flush plates in a variety of finishes including black, white, and chrome. TOTO also provides a line of flush plates that feature a variety of button shapes and finishes.
Installation Tips for DIYers
Considering upgrading to a wall-mount toilet? Installing a wall hung toilet is a piece of cake in new construction, especially before you start hanging drywall.
Installed Geberit wall hung toilet carrier system
But if you're planning to renovate an existing bathroom, and are switching from a standard toilet to a wall hung one, be ready to adjust the drain-waste-vent layout to accommodate the carrier system. You'll have to open the wall and floor to make space for the in-wall tank and drain.
Not only will you be exposing the studs in your wall, but you'll also need to reroute the pipes from their usual spot in the floor.
Most carrier models can fit snugly within 2x4 or 2x6 framing. To make sure the tank stays securely in place, you'll need to fasten the steel carrier frame to the studs.
What to Know About Maintenance
Now, let's tackle what's on most homeowners' minds: maintenance and repair of your wall hung toilet after it's installed and in use.
Wall hung toilets are built to be sturdy, defying common misconceptions. These solutions can handle a hefty load, equivalent to the weight of a full-grown polar bear, up to 800 lbs.
If you ever run into a hiccup, no need to get the demolition tools out. There's no wall-breaking drama here. The flush plate opens up for easy access when repairs are in order. Without using tools, you can easily reach the fill and flush valves to perform simple maintenance.
One last thing to consider with in-wall toilets: tank sweat. In bathrooms where moisture tends to linger and ventilation can be a bit lacking, humidity could build up on the cold surface of an in-wall toilet tank.
Though condensation might seem like a minor issue, it can lead to major problems like drywall damage and even potential mold if left unattended. But not to worry! The toilet carriers you'll find at Splashes Bath & Kitchen showrooms and Splashes.com come with insulated polyethylene tanks, designed to prevent leaks and sweating.
Key Takeaways
To sum it up, wall hung toilets make a fantastic addition to contemporary bathrooms. They bring in a sleek, stylish aesthetic, save space, and offer room for personalization. Just keep in mind the installation process and costs that come with these fixtures.
Although some people might be hesitant about the time and design challenges involved in switching to a wall hung toilet, homeowners who've weighed the pros and cons of a wall hung toilet have nothing but great things to say about it.
Explore our selection of bathroom accessories and discover the perfect pieces that will help you bring your small space dreams to life. Or, book your free consultation today and let us know how we can help. Our team is here to guide you in selecting the right solutions that cater to your space and vision.