Round vs. Elongated Toilets: Which Is Right for You?

Choosing between a round versus elongated toilet can be daunting. You’re in one of the best toilet manufacturers, looking at dozens of toilet fixtures and different designs. Some look round. Others appear stretched out. You have a decision to make, but you just can’t figure out which option is right for you. Worry not, you’re not alone. In this guide, we’ll be shining light on everything you need to know about round vs elongated toilets.

What’s the Difference Between Round and Elongated Toilets?

Although round and elongated toilets look alike, their bowl shape and size are among the main differentiating factors. Round toilets have compact, circular bowls, measuring about 16.5 inches from the wall to the front edge. Elongated toilets, on the other hand, have oval bowls extending 18.5 inches from the wall.

Round vs elongated toilet dimensions impact more than just aesthetics. The measurement influences comfort, space requirements, and installation considerations. While elongated toilets have become the standard installation in most modern homes, round toilets still have a place in certain applications.

The 2-inch difference in length between the round versus elongated toilet options also dramatically impact user experience. That extra length provides more seating area and greater comfort for most adults.

Round vs Elongated Toilet Dimensions Breakdown

Knowing the precise dimensions and measurements when deciding between round versus elongated toilets will help you narrow down your option. After all, you don’t want to invest in a sleek toilet bowl like this, only to find out it doesn’t fit!

Round Toilet Measurements

Round toilets usually measure 16.5 inches from the wall to the front rim. The width remains constant at approximately 14 inches across its widest point. Height varies between 28 and 32 inches depending on the model and seat.

You’ll find that round toilets function well in rooms where every inch counts. They take up minimal floor space and allow for more room to move around in a cramped bathroom. Their compact design makes them ideal for powder rooms or small guest bathrooms.

Elongated Toilet Dimensions

Elongated toilets measure about 18.5 inches between the wall and the front edge. The width is comparable to round toilets at 14 inches. Height is also equal to round toilets, ranging between 28 to 32 inches.

You must consider the extra 2 inches when planning your bathroom layout. Although this extra length may take up more floor space, it offers more comfort. The vast majority of standard-sized bathrooms have no problems fitting elongated toilets, another key point in the round versus elongated toilet debate

Round vs Elongated Toilet: How to Measure Your Current Toilet

Before you can even reach any consensus on the round versus elongated toilet discourse, you must be able to identify each, for starters. It is easy to tell a round bowl apart from an elongated one by simply measuring their dimensions. Just get a measuring tape and measure from the wall or the bolt holes on the tank to the very front part of the toilet bowl.

Start by finding the mounting bolts that fasten your toilet to the floor. From the center of the bolts, measure straight down to the front end of the toilet bowl. If you measure about 16.5 inches, you have a round toilet. Any toilet with measurements of 18.5 inches is considered elongated.

You’ll also need to figure out how much space you have in your bathroom to settle the round vs elongated toilet internal conflict. Assess the gap from the toilet’s current location to obstructions such as walls, vanities, and doors. This measurement guides you when deciding if you can switch from round to elongated, or vice versa.

Round vs Elongated Toilet Pros and Cons

Each toilet type has its own pros and cons. Therefore, it’s essential you factor in these elements when making your decision.

Round Toilet Pros

Space-Saving

Round toilets are well-suited for small and tight spaces. You’ll love their compact footprint in small bathrooms, powder rooms, and guest baths. Round toilets are also perfect for nautical applications, RVs, and tiny homes where space efficiency is key. You get the most out of every square inch, without losing any functionality.

Cheaper

Investing in round toilets is not as expensive compared to elongated models. Ergo, they can serve as a budget-friendly option, especially when doing multiple bathroom renovations.

Easier to Clean

It’s much easier to clean round toilets. The short distance length means better access to all areas of the toilet. This design is particularly ideal if you have limited mobility, or rely on mobility aids.

Child-friendly

Round toilets make children feel at ease, are easier to use, and are not intimidating Their proportions are better suited to the shorter back to front distance. No cause to fret about the little ones slipping forward or being unstable.

Round Toilet Cons

Less Comfy for Adults

Round bowls offer less seating area for adult users. You may even notice they’re not as comfortable to sit on after extended use. Plus, since bowl length is on the smaller side, it may make larger individuals feel cramped.

Less Hygienic

The surface area is lesser, which can mean potentially less hygienic conditions. Because it’s a round (compact) design, it doesn’t give you much room to position properly, which some people find less sanitary than elongated bowls.

Less Fashionable

Round toilets can appear outdated in modern bathroom designs. They may not complement modern bathroom vanities and styling. They don’t have the sleek, modern look that many homeowners want.

Elongated Toilet Pros

Comfy for Adults

Adults and bigger individuals are more comfortable using an elongated toilet. You have more seating area and better support while using it. The additional length essentially accommodates different body types more effectively.

More Hygienic

Elongated toilet designs tend to be more hygienic in general. The extra room makes it easier to position yourself and minimizes contact with the toilet bowl. Most homeowners, especially health-conscious ones, find this design feature very appealing.

More Aesthetic Fit

Elongated toilets also tend to be more compatible with modern bathroom styles. You get a more contemporary, sophisticated look that further complement your bathroom’s overall design. Elongated toilets are the standard in most luxury homes and high-end renovations.

Better Resale Value

Many of today’s home buyers want elongated designs in their master bathrooms. Therefore, elongated toilets will have a better resale value. This option helps safeguard your investment and will also appeal to potential future buyers.

Elongated Toilet Cons

Consumes Space

Elongated toilets take up more space on your bathroom floor. At least 30 inches of clear space in front of the toilet is necessary for safety, according to the A.D.A. Elongated models can make small bathrooms feel cramped. The longer design can also overwhelm very small bathrooms visually. They might feel disproportionate in powder rooms or small guest bath.

Costlier

This is another key factor to consider in the round vs elongated toilet debate. Going the route of elongated toilets will cost you more. Depending on the brand and features, the price difference between round versus elongated toilet models can be as high as $50-$200. Elongated toilet seats are also costlier to replace.

Round vs Elongated Toilet Installation Considerations

A professional installation will make sure the toilet works correctly and prevents future issues. You might be able to DIY the installation if you have some plumbing experience. Well, not just that, as you’ll also need to understand the round versus elongated toilets installation requirements?

Fortunately, both designs are installed in the same way. So, you’ll need the same tools and materials, no matter the shape of the bowl. However, errors can result in leaks, wobbling, or drainage problems that are more expensive to fix down the road.

In the hands of an experienced installer, installation generally takes around 2-4 hours. To get started, you’ll need to turn off your water and remove your old toilet. The installation process includes setting the new toilet, connecting water lines, and testing for leaks.

Plumbing changes are rarely required when switching toilet designs. You can generally upgrade from round to elongated without changing your drain location. Just be sure you have enough floor space that will accommodate an elongated model. You should also ensure you set proper toilet flange level.

Round vs Elongated Toilet: Which Is Better?

The answer to the round versus elongated toilet debate will vary according to your particular situation, space, and priorities. Before you decide, you should consider the following factors:

Choose Round Toilets If:

You have a small bathroom of less than 30 square feet. Round bowls are designed to save as much space as possible and make the bathroom look less cramped. They’re indispensable in powder rooms where maximizing space is of the essence.

Your choice is heavily dependent on your budget limits. Round models will save you $50 to $200 a toilet. For homes with multiple bathrooms or rental properties, this cost savings adds up quickly.

You are furnishing your kid’s bathroom or a family space with little kids. Round bowls have the ideal proportions for smaller users in your home. And because the fixtures are of appropriate size, kids feel more secure and at ease just by the way they fit.

Your toilet also serves as a guest room or secondary space where you can have a “Me-time” or gather your thoughts. Here, you place emphasis on function, not luxury. Round toilets offer full functionality without costing you much money.

Choose Elongated Toilets If:

You are remodeling your master bathroom or your main living space. You may want to switch from the “old-model” round design to the modern elongated models. You can enjoy luxury without sacrificing comfort by choosing from multiple top toilet design options here.

You have at least 35 square feet of available space in your bathroom. This means you have enough spare space to accommodate the extra length without interfering with functionality. Extended designs work fine in such room proportions.

You like modern design and are focused on resale value. By investing in elongated toilets, you’re essentially positioning yourself to meet modern buyer’s taste and adds to your home’s resale value.

Comfort is more important to you than cutting costs. You’re willing to spend some extra dollars for more convenience and better user experience. The extra expense will pay dividends in long-term satisfaction.

Conclusion

So, who wins the great round vs. elongated toilet debate? The truth is there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. You will have to make the decision based on your own needs and priorities. Making the right toilet design selection is important for daily comfort and adds value to your home for years to come.

Whatever style toilet you decide on, quality toilet installation, repair, or expert consultation is a must. Look no further! Contact George Construction Group today for expert consulting and professional installation that will leave you satisfied with your choice for years to come.