Elongated Toilet vs Comfort Height: Comparing Bathroom Comfort Options
When selecting the right toilet for your bathroom, comfort is paramount. As a seasoned home improvement expert with years of experience, I’ve come to appreciate the subtle differences that can greatly impact daily convenience.
An elongated toilet provides the benefit of added bowl length, which often translates to more comfort for adults due to its oval shape, measuring approximately 18.5 inches. This design typically gives more seating space, which I find to be a practical choice for most adults.
On the other hand, we have comfort height toilets, which are designed to be closer to the height of a standard chair, making them easier to sit down on and stand up from, standing about 17 to 19 inches tall. Based on my experience and the average height statistics, these toilets are generally a better fit for taller individuals or those with mobility issues. They are often comparable to the height specifications outlined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), aiming for a comfortable experience for all users.
Choosing between an elongated and a comfort height toilet largely depends on personal preferences and the specific needs of users in your household.
Design Differences
When it comes to bathroom renovations or new installations, I understand that homeowners are often faced with choosing between elongated bowl toilets and comfort height toilets. These fixtures differ in shape and ergonomic design.
Elongated Bowl
Elongated toilet bowls offer a more oval shape, providing additional comfort due to a larger surface area.
My experience in assessing bathroom spaces tells me that elongated bowls, which can measure up to 31 inches from the wall, are a more suitable option for larger bathrooms as they do require more space. Many models are either one-piece or two-piece, with the one-piece toilets presenting a sleeker design but often at a higher price point.
Toilet Height
In contrast, the toilet height is a separate consideration. The comfort height, sometimes referred to as ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) height, typically measures 17 to 19 inches from the floor to the seat top. This mimics the height of a standard chair, making it easier for adults to sit down and stand up.
Standard height toilets are lower, with a height of approximately 15 to 16 inches. My professional advice for most adults, especially those with mobility concerns, is to opt for a comfort height toilet. However, for families with children, a standard height toilet might be more accessible.
Accessibility and Comfort
As a professional in the field of bathroom ergonomics, I’ve seen firsthand how the right toilet can significantly affect one’s comfort and accessibility. Let’s focus on how elongated and comfort height toilets cater to the needs of the elderly and disabled, and their compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Ergonomics for Seniors and Disabled
In my experience, the elderly and individuals with certain disabilities often face challenges with standard height toilets, which typically have a seat height of about 15 inches. Comfort height toilets, also known as chair height toilets, have a seat height of 17 to 19 inches, which is closer to the height of a standard chair.
This design can make sitting down and standing back up easier for those with limited mobility or balance issues. Elongated toilets also provide added room and comfort, which can benefit users with physical disabilities.
ADA Compliance
The ADA sets guidelines for accessibility in public spaces and private homes to better accommodate individuals with disabilities. ADA-compliant toilets often feature a comfort height design, ensuring that the seat height is within the range of 17 to 19 inches.
This height meets the needs of many disabled persons as it aids in the transfer from a wheelchair to the toilet. As someone who advises on ADA-compliant fixtures, I can confirm that opting for an elongated, comfort height toilet is a practical choice for meeting these requirements.
Installation and Features
In my experience installing various toilet models, it’s evident that both elongated and comfort height toilets offer distinct features to enhance user comfort and efficiency. Let’s explore their flushing technology and water efficiency.
Flushing Technology
Elongated Toilets
- Often come with gravity-fed or pressure-assisted flushing systems.
- Can include dual flush options, which allow for a partial flush for liquids or a full flush for solids.
Comfort Height Toilets
- Typically equipped with effective flushing systems that meet ADA requirements.
- The height can assist the flushing mechanism due to the increased force from a higher water level drop.
Water Efficiency
- Watersense Label: Both elongated and comfort height toilets may come with the Watersense label, indicating they meet EPA criteria for water efficiency.
| Toilet Type | Water Usage Per Flush | Efficiency Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Elongated | 1.28-1.6 gallons | Some models have low-flow technology for water conservation. |
| Comfort Height | 1.28-1.6 gallons | Taller bowl height can lead to improved flush efficiency at lower volumes. |
- Water-Saving Toilets: I’ve seen that some models in both categories are designed to use less than 1.28 gallons per flush, helping to conserve water and reduce bills.
From my professional perspective, I advise potential buyers to consider these features carefully, as installation and inherent design directly impact the toilet’s performance and user satisfaction.
Cost and Quality Considerations
When selecting a toilet, both cost and quality are pivotal. My years in the plumbing industry have honed my ability to discern the subtle yet substantial differences that affect durability and your wallet.
Material and Durability
Materials: Toilets are generally made from porcelain, a type of ceramic that offers longevity and easy maintenance. High-quality porcelain toilets resist scratches and maintain their sheen, contributing to their durability.
Kohler, Toto, and American Standard are renowned for their high-quality craftsmanship. Models with WaterSense certification not only conserve water but are also constructed to withstand the test of time.
Price Comparisons
Cost: The price of a toilet can vary widely based on features, water efficiency, and brand reputation. An elongated toilet often costs more than a standard round one due to increased comfort and style preferences.
| Toilet Type | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Standard Elongated | $150 – $300 |
| Comfort Height | $180 – $400 |
Best Value: While Toto is seen as a premium brand with correspondingly higher prices, brands like Kohler and American Standard offer competitive quality with often more affordable options. However, special features like bidet functions can increase the price significantly. Remember, investing in a toilet is not just a purchase but a long-term investment in your home.
Let Us Know How We’re Doing!
Did this expertly prepared resource answer your question?
Do you have another question about home maintenance, home improvement projects, home appliance repair, or something else?
Get more information, send in questions and keep the discussion going by contacting the I’ll Just Fix It Myself company customer service team at at 1-800-928-1490 or Email us at [email protected]
