At some point, most homeowners find themselves needing to replace the toilet in their home. There are a few things to consider, one of which is the size or height of the replacement toilet. Your local plumber will be able to help you determine your needs in this area, but here are a few things to know beforehand.
Before you’re able to replace your toilet, you will have to decide between standard height or comfort height toilets. It wouldn’t seem like a little bit of height could make so much difference, but there is a reason the slightly elevated toilet is referred to as being “comfort height”. The difference between standard height and comfort height toilets is approximately two inches. There are pros and cons for each type and you may find them sold under different names. Your plumber will be able to show you all of your options.
Comfort height is the height that meets ADA standards. It is more comfortable for taller people and for people who have a hard time getting up from a low seat, like the elderly or disabled. It will measure 17 to 19 inches from the floor to the seat. Often this height toilet is priced less than the standard height toilet.
There are a few drawbacks to this raised toilet. It is more challenging for shorter people and children. For shorter people, they might find that their legs dangle and go to sleep while on the toilet. Some people with constipation issues could find their problems more difficult on a comfort height toilet.
Standard toilets measure 15 to 16 inches from the floor to the top of the seat. This would be the toilet you would select for your home if your family has many young or short members. The seat of a standard toilet is lower than the seat of a standard chair.
Drawbacks to consider with a standard toilet are the ease of getting up and down for taller people or for the elderly. They are more challenging if a person needs to transfer from mobility devices. The standard height toilet also frequently costs more than the comfort height equivalent. The price difference will vary in different parts of the country, so it is good to deal with an experience local plumber.
In considering standard height vs. comfort height toilets, you will need to think about a few things. The installation generally is done exactly the same way and for the same cost. You will want to consider your budget for the actual toilet keeping in mind other features like round or oval bowl, dual flush and color. Most people choose white or bone color because the neutral colors hold resale value in the home. The deciding factor becomes the needs of your own family members.
If your family is through growing or is aging the choice is likely clear between standard height vs. comfort height toilets. You will want to make things easier for day to day living. Also, think about the fact that if you put your home on the market that having an ADA compliant bathroom will be in your favor. Choose a comfort height toilet for these reasons.
Alternatively if you are just starting out, and have small children, the standard height toilet would be what you want at this time. It is important to accommodate the needs of short people in this high use area of the home. Count on good recommendations from a plumber you know and trust when purchasing a new toilet for your home.