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The correct choice of the toilet is an important decision when you design your bathroom. It also forms an integral part of your total bathroom renovation cost. Choosing a toilet depends on several factors — the size of your bathroom, your requirements and budget, aesthetic concerns, and bathroom design. Your toilet type plus shape should take all of these factors into consideration. Toilets mainly arrive in two variants — round and elongated — depending on the shape of the bowl. And it often becomes confusing as to which would be the better option for you. Therefore, today, let’s discuss the major differences and lay out the pros and cons of elongated vs round toilet — so that you can make an informed decision.
Elongated vs round toilet: which one looks better?
The only difference between these two models is in the shape of the bowl and toilet seat. While the round version resembles a circle and extends less into the bathroom, the elongated model protrudes outward into the room from its front, due to its oval shape. An elongated toilet is approximately 18 1/2″ long and a round toilet is approximately 16 1/2″ long. The latter is the conventional, traditional type, whereas the former lends a more contemporary, modern appeal.
However, this shape variation doesn’t result in much of a difference in the design or style aspect. For example, both these types can arrive with skirted bottoms, one- or two-piece models, and detailed lids.
Want to explore more about toilet seats? Take a look at our guide on Popular Types of Toilet for Your Home
Do elongated toilets cost more than round ones?
Mostly, the answer to this question is yes. Elongated toilets are usually costlier than their round counterparts — with the same specifications. However, installation costs stay almost the same for both models — depending on the toilet’s location and pipes’ condition.
Which model is easier to use?
Since elongated toilets come with a wider area, they may be more comfortable for sitting on. Additionally, it probably creates less mess when used by men and kids. Moreover, elongated toilets are also a better choice for aged people or individuals with mobility issues.
Read more: Suspended Toilets And Bidets: Pros And Cons
What about space considerations?
Usually, most building codes require toilets to have a frontal length of at least 21 inches. And ADA-compliant bathrooms require 48 inches. Keeping these two factors in mind, note that an elongated bowl is mostly 2 inches longer than its round counterparts. Also, calculate the size of your bathroom. An elongated toilet may be a good fit for a large, master bathroom, but if you are renovating a small, half bathroom or powder room, then a round toilet might be the wiser choice.
Therefore, check your building code and compliance specifications, note your bathroom’s dimensions, and pick a model that meets all these requirements.
Should we consider the trap way and water usage?
If you ask about the trap way and how much water each toilet uses, there is no difference between these two models. Why? Because the only difference between these two types is the length of the bowl. The bottoms — in both cases — are almost the same. Therefore, they hold and flush the same amount of water at one go.
Is there any difference in the installation process?
The installation process for a toilet involves the following steps. First, the tank and bowl are coupled together. This is followed by placing a wax ring around the waste pipe. The toilet is then fitted at the required location — while maintaining the correct angle. Once it is in position, the installer applies pressure on all sides, fixes it into space, and connects the water supply.
Installation processes for both these models are essentially similar. The only difficulty may arise while shifting elongated bowls — due to their larger size.
Read more: Replacing Toilet Water Line In 6 Steps
Elongated vs round toilet: which one is easier to maintain?
Elongated toilets come with fewer crevices, gaps, and irregularities under the seat. Therefore, they are easier to clean than round bowls. Moreover, their longer shape makes it easier to see debris and thereby, clean it with a cleaning brush.
Any difference in the flush power?
Flush technologies come in various types — such as pressure-assisted and double-cyclone flushes. An elongated toilet bowl may be the better option if your toilet operates by circulating water via pressure. This is because elongated front bowls may help in providing better pressure. But if your toilet uses other technologies, then both the models shall deliver almost the same performance.
Conclusion
After reading this blog, it should now be fairly clear to you that there is not much of a vast difference between round and elongated shapes in toilets. The only notable variations are in terms of cost, looks, size, and comfort. Therefore, if you ask, elongated vs round toilet — which is the better option, we don’t have any definite answer. The choice totally depends on your requirements — such as dimensions, budget, and comfortability.
Read more: How To Choose A Toilet For Your Bathroom: Tips From Experts
Written by Anisha Dutta. March 27, 2019
A wordsmith and an experienced content developer, Anisha Dutta currently writes for Kukun. She holds keen interest and knowledge about the latest, upcoming trends in the domain of home design and tries to enrich homeowners with inspirational home-improvement tips and tricks -- while breaking down jargons into simple words. An avid reader and a wanderer by habit, she is a writer by passion.
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Your opinion matters, leave a comment
I never thought that different styles of toilets actually exist, and the elongated ones are actually more comfortable to sit on. My husband is telling me that the only thing that’s missing in our house’s plan is the toilet, so I’m looking for ideas on what kind of toilet I should get for our new home. Perhaps I can call a plumbing expert and ask their opinion about this so that I can hire them to install the right kind of toilet once we start the project.