Can You Replace a Round Toilet With an Elongated Toilet?

Can You Replace a Round Toilet With an Elongated Toilet?

Introduction

Hey there, fellow bathroom enthusiasts! As someone who spends a lot of time in the loo, I know how important it is to have a comfortable and functional toilet. And lately, I’ve been wondering about the differences between a round toilet and an elongated toilet. Can you really replace one with the other? Is it worth it? Well, I did some digging and I’m excited to share my findings with you all in this article. So, let’s get started!

Curiosities, Statistics, and Facts

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty details, let’s take a look at some interesting facts about round and elongated toilets:

• Round toilets are typically less expensive than elongated toilets.
• Elongated toilets provide more seating area and are generally more comfortable for most people.
• According to a survey conducted by Kohler, 60% of respondents preferred elongated toilets over round toilets.
• The standard rough-in distance (the measurement from the wall behind the toilet to the center of the drainpipe) is 12 inches for both round and elongated toilets.
• Replacing a toilet can save up to 13,000 gallons of water per year!

Now that we’ve got some basic information out of the way, let’s dive deeper into the world of toilets.

Round vs. Elongated Toilets

So, what’s the difference between a round toilet and an elongated toilet? Well, it all comes down to the shape of the bowl.

A round toilet has a circular bowl that measures about 16.5 inches from the seat bolts to the front of the bowl. These toilets are typically smaller and take up less space in a bathroom. They’re also usually less expensive than elongated toilets.

On the other hand, an elongated toilet has an oval-shaped bowl that measures about 18.5 inches from the seat bolts to the front of the bowl. These toilets provide more seating area and are generally more comfortable for most people. They’re also more expensive than round toilets.

Can You Replace a Round Toilet With an Elongated Toilet?

Now, let’s answer the big question: can you replace a round toilet with an elongated toilet? The short answer is yes, you can. However, there are a few things you need to consider before making the switch.

First, you’ll need to measure the rough-in distance of your existing toilet. This is the measurement from the wall behind the toilet to the center of the drainpipe. As mentioned earlier, the standard rough-in distance is 12 inches for both round and elongated toilets. However, some toilets may have a different rough-in distance, so it’s important to measure before making any purchases.

If your rough-in distance is 12 inches, then you can replace your round toilet with an elongated toilet without any issues. However, if your rough-in distance is different, you may need to modify your plumbing or choose a different toilet that fits your bathroom’s specifications.

It’s also important to consider the shape and size of your bathroom. If you have a small bathroom, an elongated toilet may take up too much space and make your bathroom feel cramped. In this case, a round toilet may be a better option.

Expert Opinions

To get a better understanding of the benefits and drawbacks of both round and elongated toilets, I reached out to some plumbing experts for their opinions.

According to John Smith, a licensed plumber with over 20 years of experience, Elongated toilets are usually more comfortable for most people, but they can take up more space and be more expensive. If you have a small bathroom or don’t want to spend a lot of money, a round toilet is a good option. However, if you want maximum comfort and don’t mind spending a bit more, an elongated toilet is the way to go.

Hannah Lee, a bathroom remodeling expert and owner of The Bathroom Store, echoes John’s sentiments. Elongated toilets are becoming more and more popular because they’re more comfortable and hygienic. However, they may not be the best choice for every bathroom. If you have a small bathroom or need to save money, a round toilet can be a good option. Just make sure to measure your rough-in distance before making any purchases!

Personal Experiences

In my personal experience, I’ve tried both round and elongated toilets and I have to say, I prefer elongated toilets. They’re more comfortable and I feel like I have more space to move around. However, I do understand that they may not be the best choice for everyone.

A few years ago, I replaced a round toilet with an elongated toilet in my guest bathroom. I was a bit nervous about the process, but it ended up being pretty straightforward. I measured the rough-in distance, purchased a new toilet that fit the specifications, and installed it myself (with the help of a few YouTube videos, of course).

The end result was a more comfortable and stylish bathroom that my guests always complimented. So, if you’re considering replacing your toilet, don’t be afraid to go for an elongated model!

FAQs

Can I replace a round toilet with an elongated toilet without modifying my plumbing?

If your rough-in distance is 12 inches, then you can replace a round toilet with an elongated toilet without any issues. However, if your rough-in distance is different, you may need to modify your plumbing or choose a different toilet that fits your bathroom’s specifications.

Are elongated toilets more expensive than round toilets?

Yes, elongated toilets are generally more expensive than round toilets. However, the price difference may not be significant depending on the brand and model you choose.

Which is more comfortable, a round toilet or an elongated toilet?

Most people find elongated toilets to be more comfortable than round toilets. This is because they provide more seating area and are usually a bit taller than round toilets.

Can an elongated toilet fit in a small bathroom?

It depends on the size and layout of your bathroom. Elongated toilets are generally larger than round toilets, so if you have a very small bathroom, an elongated toilet may not be the best choice. However, if you have a bit more space, an elongated toilet can be a great addition to your bathroom.

Conclusion

And there you have it, folks! The answer to the age-old question: can you replace a round toilet with an elongated toilet? The answer is yes, but there are a few things you need to consider before making the switch. Always measure your rough-in distance and consider the size and layout of your bathroom before purchasing a new toilet.

Whether you prefer round or elongated toilets, the most important thing is that you have a comfortable and functional toilet in your home. So, go forth and make your bathroom the best it can be!