Deciphering the Debate: Round vs. Elongated Toilets
When it comes to home improvement and bathroom design, one of the most frequently asked questions is about the choice between round and elongated toilets. This seemingly simple decision can have a substantial impact on comfort, space utilization, aesthetics, and even cost. In this article, we will delve deep into the comparison between round and elongated toilets to help you make an informed decision that suits your specific needs.
The Basics: Understanding Round and Elongated Toilets
Before we plunge into the debate of round versus elongated toilets, let’s first understand what these terms mean.
A round toilet has a circular bowl shape with its length from back to front typically measuring around 16.5 inches. They are often found in older homes or smaller bathrooms due to their compact size.
On the other hand, an elongated toilet has an oval-shaped bowl with its length usually measuring about 18.5 inches from back to front. These are more modern designs that prioritize comfort over space-saving capabilities.
Comfort Considerations: Which Is More Comfortable?
When it comes down to comfort level, many people find elongated toilets more comfortable than their round counterparts because of their larger surface area for sitting down.
The extra two inches in length can make a significant difference when it comes down to overall comfort particularly for adults or individuals with mobility issues who may need extra support when sitting or standing up from the toilet.
However, if you have young children at home who are starting potty training or people of shorter stature in your household then they might find a round toilet easier and more comfortable as they won’t have trouble reaching the floor while seated on it.
Space-Saving Solutions: Which One Saves More Space?
If you’re dealing with limited bathroom space then a round toilet might be the better option for you. Its smaller footprint allows it to fit into tighter spaces, making it ideal for half-baths, powder rooms, or small full bathrooms.
Elongated toilets take up more space due to their longer design which may not be suitable if you have a small bathroom or if other fixtures need to be installed in close proximity.
Aesthetics and Design: Round vs. Elongated
In terms of aesthetics and design trends, elongated toilets tend to look more modern and sleek due to their extended bowl shape. They often pair well with contemporary bathroom designs that favor clean lines and minimalistic styles.
Round toilets, on the other hand, have a classic appeal that can blend well with traditional bathroom styles. Their compact size also means they don’t dominate the room visually as much as an elongated toilet might do in smaller bathrooms.
Cost Considerations: Which Is More Economical?
Generally speaking, round toilets are often less expensive than elongated ones. The cost difference can range from $20-$50 depending on brand and model but this isn’t always the case as there are also high-end round models that can cost more than basic elongated ones.
However, while initial purchase price is an important consideration don’t forget about long-term costs such as water usage rates which could make one type of toilet more economical over time than another depending on your local water prices.
To sum up: when choosing between a round versus an elongated toilet consider factors like comfort level based on who will be using it most frequently (adults vs children), space availability in your bathroom layout (smaller bathrooms may benefit from a round model), aesthetic preference (modern vs traditional), and budget constraints both short term (purchase price) and long term (water usage). By taking all these factors into account you’ll make an informed decision that meets your specific needs.
