How to choose an installation for a toilet: review of designs and tips before purchasing
In addition to traditional toilets, wall-hung structures have become very popular, allowing optimal use of the usable space of the room. And from an aesthetic point of view, they look much better than floor-standing models. Do you agree?
The plumbing equipment market offers several options, each of which has its own installation and operation features. We will tell you how to choose an installation for a toilet, what characteristics and parameters are important to take into account.
In addition, we will describe the operation scheme of the suspended system, outline its pros and cons, and also name the best manufacturers of plumbing fixtures. The material contains a video with expert advice on choosing installations.
The content of the article:
- What is an installation system?
- System components
- Pros and cons of installation for a toilet
- Modern models in the interior of bathrooms
- Types of installations by design
- Dimensional range of toilet installations
- The best manufacturers of wall-hung sanitary ware
- Tips before purchasing attachments
- Four misconceptions about installing toilets
- Conclusions and useful video on the topic
What is an installation system?
This name refers to a steel structure that is mounted into the wall. It is a frame onto which the necessary fittings, a toilet or other types of hygienic devices (sink, bidet) are attached.
All technical communications are covered with a plasterboard false wall, which gives the interior a pleasant, neat design. The wall-hung toilet and the panel with the flush button remain visible, taking up minimal space.
System components
The complete kit consists of the following components.
Installation. This important element is made of durable steel, which is usually coated with an anti-corrosion coating. The hydraulic piping of the toilet and/or other plumbing fixtures is attached to the frame, and connecting components (couplings, mounting pins) are installed.
A toilet tank is mounted to the structure, which plays an important role in the operation of the system, since its quality and durability largely depend on this component.
To prevent corrosion and leakage, the tank is usually made of high-quality plastic, and silicone or improved rubber is used to gasket the flush valve.
To prevent water overflow, which can lead to flooding of the apartment, an emergency drain is provided. Manufacturers of modern plumbing comply with European standards, according to which the noise level during operation of the tank should not exceed 17 dB.
Toilet. Modern designs of installation systems are, as a rule, universal: they are suitable for hygienic devices of various brands. In addition to hanging models, frames are also used for some variants of floor-mounted plumbing fixtures, namely for modifications with a “hidden tank”.
The hygiene products on sale come in a variety of colors (from traditional white to black and acid-bright tones), finishes and designs. Most models are traditionally made of earthenware or porcelain, but you can find options from other materials: acrylic, metal, glass.
When choosing a model, it is advisable to pay attention to toilet cover: they can be regular or with a “semi-lift”. The latter option guarantees smooth closing, which prevents plumbing from mechanical damage during sudden slamming.
Flush button. A small but important component of the installation system is the external panel with the flush button.
This part can have various modifications:
- with flush-stop mode — in this case, flushing can be stopped by pressing the panel again;
- with two flush options - economical, providing for draining half of the tank, and general with full draining;
- contactless - activated by infrared rays.
Flush panels can vary greatly in color and design, and are often a real highlight of a toilet or bathroom.
Pros and cons of installation for a toilet
Suspended structures have their advantages and disadvantages.
The advantages include the following factors:
- Optimal use of usable space — wall-hung sanitary ware takes up less space than conventional toilets.
- Visual expansion of the room. The small dimensions of hygiene devices, as well as the absence of a tank, make it possible to avoid the accumulation of objects.
- Aesthetics, due to the fact that all technical details are hidden in the wall.
- Hygiene. The wall-hung toilet does not have a leg, where bacteria often accumulate. In addition, it leaves the floor completely open, which makes cleaning the room easier.
- Economical. Many models have devices for half-draining water, which allows you to reduce water consumption.
- Low noise level. The use of installation systems makes it possible to reduce noise associated with the operation of the tank, since the design has an additional sound-absorbing layer.
- Reliability. Such designs are designed for long-term use. Many manufacturers provide a 10-year warranty; in reality, models can last longer.
It is obvious that such plumbing devices have many advantages.
The disadvantages of hanging models include:
- Installation of the structure requires care and thoroughness in the work. When installing, it is important to take into account many nuances: the height of the frame, its position in the wall and other characteristics.
- A false wall blocks free access to general communications, which may be required, for example, in the case of a centralized replacement of plumbing equipment in the house. If such a need arises, you will have to open the partition, dismantle the cladding or other finishing, and then repair the damaged area again.
- Wall-hung toilets, which include an installation system, are somewhat more expensive than traditional versions of hygienic devices.
When choosing plumbing fixtures, you need to prioritize, assessing how important the above are for you features of hanging plumbingand then make an informed choice.
Modern models in the interior of bathrooms
Various models of wall-hung toilets will fit perfectly into the interiors of toilets/bathrooms decorated in all possible styles - from classic to high-tech and art deco.
However, before you go to the store, you should think in advance not only about the preferred design, but also about the place where the plumbing fixtures will be located, since this factor leaves an imprint on the choice of a hygienic device.
There are various options for installing a toilet installation in the interior.
Standard design arrangement. For normal installation near one of the walls, conventional frames (frame or wall mounted) made by various manufacturers are suitable.
Installation on both sides of the partition. In this case, it is better to prefer a volumetric design, in which you can hang the components of the plumbing kit on both sides of the wall.
In this case, the flush button is mounted on the upper edge of the partition in a horizontal rather than frontal position. This type of installation is especially suitable for wooden floors, which are often found in country houses, dachas, and cottages.
Corner version of the system. Ideal for small spaces corner installation.
In this case, you can use two installation options:
- Purchase a corner mounting module.
- Choose a standard frame, but purchase special fasteners to place it in the corner.
Such structures at the junction of walls look airy and take up minimal space.
On an island or under a window. This option allows you to optimally use the section of the wall under the window or zoning the room. For such placement, it is advisable to select small frame systems, the height of which does not exceed 82 cm.
In-line installation. In this case, a single installation structure is installed that combines several plumbing items at once: toilet, sink, bidet.
In this way, you can install all the necessary equipment at one time, decorating the room in the same style.
Types of installations by design
It is customary to distinguish between two main types of such structures, which differ not only in technical characteristics, but also in the nuances of installation.
No. 1. Block (mounted) model and its features
This is the simplest and most cost-effective installation system, but it has a significant limitation in use - it can only be installed on a load-bearing main wall. The design includes a plastic tank, mounting plates with anchors, and a set of studs designed for attaching the toilet.
Installing a block installation
The hanging structure is placed in a niche made in the wall.When attaching the frame, it is important to determine the height of the installation, and then mark marks in the right places for installing the fastening.
Using a hammer drill, holes are drilled into which dowels are driven in, onto which the installation with a screwed-on tank is hung. After checking the reliability of the installed gaskets, the drain container is connected to the communications.
The pins necessary for hanging the bowl of the hygiene device are inserted into the pre-made holes. Then the space under the block is bricked: if there are voids between the false and main walls, the toilet will put pressure on the partition, as a result of which its finishing (for example, tiles) may crack.
The final stage is to seal the hole with a waterproof plasterboard sheet (usually in two layers), which provides an inspection window, closed by a panel with a drain button. The toilet is hung last, after all installation work is completed.
No. 2. Characteristics of frame installation
A more complex, versatile, and expensive option is the frame design. This is a durable steel frame with an anti-corrosion coating, which is supplied with the fittings required for fastening the installation and plumbing fixtures mounted on it.
Such a system can be installed in any room, regardless of the wall material and their strength.However, it should be taken into account that the quality of the partitions directly affects the fastening option. For load-bearing floors, it is better to prefer wall mounting, in which the entire load falls on the wall.
If you decide to place the installation next to a plasterboard or foam block partition, it is advisable to choose a floor-mounted option: in this case, the frame is installed on special legs.
There is also a combined modification that provides for securing the model using four holes to both vertical and horizontal surfaces.
All installation frame systems are adjustable in height using legs (about 20 cm), which is very convenient, since this function allows you to install the device at the required distance from the floor covering.
One can also note the great functionality of such structures. When installing it, you can provide a shelf or ledge in the wall.
Installation of frame structures
Initially, you should determine the location of the frame, which can be attached to the wall or installed on the floor. At the same time, you need to determine the height at which the toilet will be located.
After this, the tank is installed. A water pipe is supplied to it and connected to the inlet fitting.
You should not use flexible hoses, the service life of which is much shorter than the service life of the toilet and flush cistern.
The toilet sewer outlet is connected to the riser using corrugation or directly. Upon completion of the procedure, it is important to check the strength of the connection by pouring about 3 liters of water.
The final stage is finishing the installation with a double sheet of plasterboard (GKVL), in which the necessary holes are cut, after which the drain button is installed and the false wall is finished.
More information about installation technologies for block and frame systems is written in this article.
Dimensional range of toilet installations
When choosing an installation, you need to pay attention to its parameters. This is especially important if a specific space has already been allocated for installation of the system.
The standard version of block systems has the following dimensions:
- width - 50 cm;
- depth - 10-15 cm;
- height - 1 m.
A typical frame structure usually has the following parameters:
- width - 50-60 cm;
- depth - 15-30 cm;
- height - 0.8-1.4 m.
When choosing frame installations for placing plumbing under a window, it is better to give preference to lower modifications with a height of 80-82 cm. Low, wide structures that reduce the load on the walls are preferably used in houses with wooden partitions.
To better meet customer needs, many companies produce non-standard modifications of models.
In the assortment of a German company TESE there is an installation only 8 centimeters deep. A slightly wider version of 9 cm is produced by a Spanish manufacturer Roca.
A miniature design 30 cm wide is offered by an Italian company Migliore, and in the size range of the Dutch company WiSA Excellent There is an option with a similar parameter of 38 cm.
The best manufacturers of wall-hung sanitary ware
Among the most popular brands that produce installations for toilets are Turkish Vitra, Spanish Roca, Polish Cersanit, famous German companies TECE, Viega, Grohe, Russian brand IDDIS, famous Swiss brand Geberit, Dutch company WiSA Excellent, Italian Migliore, Czech Alcaplast.
Based on surveys of participants in specialized forums, the following five were determined the best manufacturers suspended structures:
- The company took first place Geberit, producing installation systems with a unique seamless tank.
- The second was divided by the companies Grohe/Viega.
- The third went to the German manufacturer TECE.
- Firms settled on the fourth Cersanit And Wisa.
- The fifth place was taken by the budget brand Alcaplast.
In addition to the durability and quality of the products, respondents also paid attention to the design of the models, in particular, the beauty of the buttons. In their opinion, the panels produced by the companies are particularly original and diverse Tece, Geberit And Vierga.
When purchasing plumbing equipment, it is important to remember that even high-quality devices can fail due to factors such as improper installation, poor water quality, and violation of operating rules.
Tips before purchasing attachments
To install suspended plumbing, you must purchase the following set of components:
- Installation system. The choice of modification directly depends on the quality of the walls: a block version is suitable only for strong load-bearing structures, while a frame version is compatible with plasterboard or foam block partitions. An important point is the planned location of plumbing fixtures.
- Hanging (floor) bowl toilet with the desired lid.When purchasing, you should definitely check with the seller whether the kit includes fasteners and an adapter designed for installing a flush elbow. If the answer is negative, you will have to buy them additionally (it is advisable to choose parts from the same company).
- Tank and key flushing must be purchased separately if the finished kit does not include such elements.
- Soundproofing pads. An important component that will provide additional sound insulation, eliminating the sounds of drained water.
When purchasing plumbing fixtures, you must check the components, checking their availability with the list in the instructions.
When choosing a model, you should also pay attention to the additional functions available, for example, the absorption of unpleasant odors or the ability to save water. You should also ask the seller how commercially available the components of this company are, if they have to be purchased separately.
Be sure to keep the warranty card for the purchased product.
Four misconceptions about installing toilets
Myth 1. Since all technical communications are located inside the system, in the case of the simplest installation repair or replacing a separate component will have to completely destroy the false wall, damaging the cladding or other finishing.
Refutation.The drainage system can be easily accessed through the inspection window, which opens when the panel with the flush button is removed. This design solution makes it possible to easily correct deficiencies in the operation of the shut-off valve and other fittings and replace them.
It is worth adding that the service life of the drain tank, made of durable plastic, is usually equal to the period of operation of the entire system.
Myth 2. If any component of the toilet installation breaks, it will be difficult to purchase it on the open market.
Refutation. Finding spare parts for the most popular models of hanging plumbing is not difficult; they are widely available in specialized stores. If in doubt, you can ask the seller in advance how available parts of a particular brand are on the market.
Myth 3. Wall-hung toilets are unreliable and fragile. It is unlikely that such plumbing will be suitable for overweight people.
Refutation. This category of plumbing fixtures is mounted on a durable frame made of steel. The frame is securely built into the wall, which ensures its strength and stability. Manufacturers of such products guarantee that they can withstand a weight of 200-400, and some models even 800 kilograms.
Myth 4. Installing a wall-hung toilet requires a lot of space, since part of the usable area will be taken up by a false wall.
Refutation. Wall-hung plumbing fixtures are located directly against the wall, so space is allocated for installation, which is usually occupied by the tank of a traditional model of a hygienic device.
When placing the structure in a niche with communications, it is possible to even slightly increase the free space of the toilet or bathroom.
Conclusions and useful video on the topic
In the video below you can hear advice on choosing an installation for a toilet directly from a specialist:
Wall-hung toilets and other hygienic appliances combine reliability, convenience and attractive appearance. With their help, you can transform the interior of any sanitary room, giving it airiness and elegance.
If you have anything to add, or have any questions about choosing an installation for the toilet, you can leave comments on the publication. The comment form is in the lower block.
Recently we did renovations in the bathroom and, accordingly, in the toilet. The room is small, and we decided to choose a corner wall-hung toilet. Firstly, it really doesn’t take up as much space as a regular one, and secondly, it looks interesting and modern. There are no problems with its installation, and there is not much hassle, you just need to purchase special fasteners. A bidet was installed next to him - his wife’s whim. We were pleased with the renovation. So for those who want to install such a toilet and are not sure, don’t be afraid, everything couldn’t be simpler.
A wall-hung toilet really saves space. I myself was amazed at how much more compact it looks than a regular toilet with the same dimensions. Installation was easy, the main problem was the finishing. Because I wanted to have access to the pipes, so the false wall was made decorative so that it could be moved at any time on my own. It cost me a pretty penny.
Above the installation we want to make cabinets with a depth of 40 cm. The question is quite simple: should I buy an anchor of this length or not any installation will fit (since the standard is made at 20 cm)?
Buy studs of the required length and diameter, we installed them 50 cm from the wall
Buy studs of the required length and diameter, we installed them 50 cm from the wall