How to choose the right toilet?
When arranging a bathroom, first of all, you need to pay attention to the choice of a toilet. It should be practical, easy to use and not take up much space.
Varieties of designs
Today you can find a wide range of toilet bowls in any specialized store. All models are different from each other. It is worth considering those designs that are most popular today.
Compact
These models of toilet bowls are small in size, as well as a relatively low price. In addition, they are easy to install and easy to care for. Among them it is worth noting corner model that fits even in a small bathroom. It is these toilets that are most often bought in modern houses and apartments.
Monoblock
This design is less common, but in fact it belongs to the same category of "compact". The waste container is integrated with the bowl into one piece. Thanks to this, there are no leaks at the joints. But at the same time in the event of a breakdown, it will be necessary to change the entire toilet bowl as a whole, and this is not very convenient.
Retro
Such designs are expensive, as they differ from others in their original appearance. Their tank is located high enough. To use the flush system, simply pull on a long rope or chain. However, it is realistic to place such a toilet only in a large room.as it takes up a lot of space. This design fits perfectly into an antique-styled bathroom.
Hinged
These toilets are considered the most compact.After all, their cistern is mounted directly into the wall, but the toilet itself is attached to the wall. This design resembles a bidet in its appearance. There are no legs in such models, respectively, and caring for them will not take a lot of time and effort from the owners.
Combined
This model is quite convenient due to the fact that it is combined with a bidet. For this reason its cost is high. Combined toilets are pretty decent in size, so you shouldn't buy them for too cramped bathrooms. Otherwise, no additional shelves and baskets will fit there.
Which material is better?
There are a large number of materials from which toilets are made. To determine the best for yourself, you need to deal with each separately, considering their pros and cons.
Faience
This material is considered the most practical of all. In addition, it is quite common due to its low price. This material is made of white clay, which has a porous structure.
To slightly reduce the hygroscopicity of this material, its surface is covered with special enamel. Its color may be different, but this will not affect the technical characteristics at all. Of the shortcomings, it can be noted that the enamel may wear off after a few years, and this will lead to the fact that moisture will be absorbed into the faience base.
With good care, he can serve a person for more than 15 years.
Porcelain
This material is also made from white clay. But in the manufacturing process, a little feldspar and quartz are added to it. In addition, when firing clay, a certain temperature must be set, due to which the porcelain is not as porous as the previous material.
However, like faience, the surface of the porcelain is still additionally covered with enamel. But during operation, it does not wear off as quickly as from earthenware products, which means that the base is also destroyed much more slowly. It is also much easier to care for porcelain.
If we talk about the price, then it is one third higher than for toilet bowls made of earthenware. Porcelain models can last up to 25 years without breakdowns.
Steel
In some cases, toilets are made of steel that does not rust. It does not absorb moisture, and dirt does not adhere to it. However, these are not all the advantages of such toilets. Among other things, they are highly durable. Thanks to this, they can be installed where a large number of people use the bathroom. It is from steel that the most original toilet bowls of an unusual shape are made.
Their disadvantages include the high price. That's why most people cannot use these toilets when decorating a home bathroom.
Cast iron
If in the old days such models were popular, in the modern world they are extremely rare. This is not surprising, because their weight is very large, moreover, they take up a lot of space. Besides, such plumbing tends to have uncomfortable seats.
Fake diamond
Almost all models made of artificial stone are perfect for decorating bathrooms in baroque or classic styles. Among all the options described above, such a toilet is the most expensive. Such models differ from others in that their surface is very smooth, like glass. That's why they are very easy to clean. To do this, it is enough to carefully rinse the surface of the toilet bowl with running water.
Plastic
These toilets are very lightweight and inexpensive. But this is where their advantages end. These models are afraid of temperature extremes, so their shelf life is not too long. Most often they are bought in order to be installed in the country for temporary use.
Toilet seats and lids are now typically made of plastic. But if the toilet is more expensive or even designer, then the toilet seat can be made of wood covered with waterproof varnish.
Of all these materials, the most affordable and versatile is porcelain. Toilets made of it serve for a long time, are relatively inexpensive, and look stylish.
Flush systems
There are several flush systems that are used in modern toilets.
Straight
If such a system is used, then the water flow moves along a straight path. For this reason, it is very often also called cascading or horizontal. Such a system often used during the Soviet Union... In old apartments, there are still toilets with just such a flush system.
Its advantages include the fact that with just one click of a button you can deal with all the impurities that are in the center of the bowl. But to the disadvantages - the fact that everything remaining on the surface must be cleaned with a brush.
In addition, over time, rust can form on the walls of the toilet, which will also have to be disposed of manually using household chemicals.
Circular
This option is radically different from the previous one. Here the water does not flow in a straight path. It moves to the annular groove, and then spreads over the entire area. The advantage of such a system is it is the absence of noise. But the disadvantages are the high price of toilets with a circular flush system.
Mounting methods
There are three main ways to fix toilets. They are:
- suspended. This toilet is hung on the wall. The construction takes up little space. Their installation requires a special metal installation, welding and an hour of free time.
- Floor standing. This is the most common classic. The toilet is attached to the floor with nuts. Maintenance and repair of such toilets is the easiest way.
- Attached. They are also known as back-to-wall. Suitable for placement in narrow rooms. They are fixed in the same way as classic floor models.
It is necessary to choose the method of fixing the toilet, focusing on the characteristics of the room. In some cases, it is most convenient to place a wall-hung toilet, in others, the corner model is the best option.
We decide on the type of tank and bowl
Toilet bowls themselves can be different. The complexity of the care of the product and the efficiency of the drain depend on their choice.
Funnel-shaped
This bowl is located in the very center of the toilet. Its main advantage is that all waste is rinsed off immediately, so no brush is needed for cleaning. In addition, these toilets are virtually splash-free when flushed, which makes them particularly popular. The advantage is that they save money on toilet cleaning fluids.
Poppet
In these toilets, the drain hole is displaced forward. In addition, there is a depression into which all the impurities enter, only then they are washed out of the plate-shaped hole under a huge pressure of water. The disadvantage of this design is a huge amount of splashes when flushing. In addition, moisture accumulates on its walls, which leads to the formation of rust.
Visor
The drain hole in the visor bowls of the toilet is also shifted slightly forward. But if there is a depression in the dish-shaped bowl, then here it is replaced by a slight bend. In addition, such models are distinguished by the fact that when flushed, they retain splashes. Experts also claim that it is the best option for those who are worried about unpleasant smells in the bathroom.
Another important point is the choice of a cistern. They are:
- connected to the toilet. This design has its advantages: they are easier to install, clean, and repair. They also look more modern.
- Separate. The cistern can be mounted closer to the ceiling, above the toilet. This is a typical version of old post-Soviet buildings. Alternatively, the model can be supplemented with a cistern, which is built into the wall. This is very convenient, with the exception of one minus - in the event of a breakdown, it will be difficult to get to the tank.
The volume of the tanks is from 4 to 6 liters. The higher this indicator, the more water will be wasted when flushing.... To save on water bills, it is better to buy a toilet, complemented by two-button fittings. In this case, only half of the water from the tank is consumed. And although such models are more expensive, buying them will be beneficial for those who have meters installed in their house or apartment.
How to find the right size?
A few decades ago, manufacturers created toilets 40 centimeters high. Now their height varies from 42 to 50 cm.
To understand whether the height of the toilet is suitable for you or not, you need to "test" it by sitting down on it.
When it comes to hanging toilets, the approach to choosing their height needs to be slightly changed. There should be about 20 centimeters of free space between the bottom of the toilet and the floor.... In addition, it is worth measuring the parameters of the room in advance so that the purchased toilet does not take up all the free space. The smaller the bathroom, the more compact the structure installed in it should be.
Manufacturers rating
The price of toilets directly depends not only on the material of manufacture, but also on the country of origin. All models can be classified as follows.
- Budgetary. These include toilets from domestic manufacturers. In addition, manufacturers from China can also be included in the same item.
- Toilet bowls of the middle price category most often produced in countries such as Poland or Finland. Their price can go up to $ 300.
- Luxury plumbing produced most often in Austria or Germany.
It is worth taking a closer look at the most popular toilet bowl manufacturers.
- Gustavsberg... The famous Boch company produces products under this brand. Its high quality matches the price. Manufacturers give up to 25 years warranty for their toilets. Most often, when creating them, they use porcelain covered with a special glaze. It is due to this that the models are so durable.
- AM-PM. This is one of the Italian companies that produces expensive sanitary ware. Manufacturers also provide a guarantee of up to 25 years for their products.
- Roca. It is also an Italian manufacturer that produces elite quality products. She will be able to fit into the interior of any bathroom. In addition, its quality is fully consistent with the price.
- Ifo - popular Swedish brand. Most of the models are water efficient and are equipped with a silent drain system. The warranty period for them is 10 years.
- Vitra. The products of the Turkish company are distinguished by a rather original design, as well as full automation of the structure. They are constantly experimenting with new technologies and do not forget to improve the appearance of plumbing.
- Jacob delafon... French manufacturers are renowned for their exquisite products. Their toilets are suitable for people who want to make every room in their apartment or house stylish and thoughtful down to the last detail.
- Laufen. The brand was founded at the end of the 19th century. It became famous for its high quality products. Their main factories are located in the Czech Republic and Austria.
Most of the brands presented offer customers quite expensive products. But at the same time, the quality of these toilets has been confirmed by more than one generation of users.
We take into account additional functionality
With the development of technology and toilets are becoming more "smart". Most modern models are equipped with backlight, seat heating and even automatic water flush.
Another interesting solution that allows you to save money on buying a bidet is the so-called bidet cover. It is supplemented with nozzles. The peculiarity of such a cover is that it is enough to install it on the toilet, and it will perform the function of a bidet, eliminating the need to waste time on hygiene procedures. Given the fact that water cleaning is much more hygienic than paper, this model of toilet bowls is becoming more and more popular.
Another popular know-how - auto wash system. Such an addition will appeal to forgetful people, those who are constantly in a hurry somewhere, or just people who want to keep the bathroom perfectly clean.
Another option is it is an anti-splash system. It is intended so that when flushing from the toilet there is no splashing, and the rim remains dry. This system is very simple to implement. There is a special ledge in the toilet bowl. At the same time, the drain hole is narrower and shifted back. The plum is funnel-shaped. Water washes away all impurities accurately and almost silently.
Professional advice for choosing
When choosing a good toilet, you need to pay attention to several important parameters. You need to buy only high quality toilet bowls... The high cost of the toilet will pay off over time, because it will not have to be replaced or repaired in the near future. This means that it will be possible to save both money and time. First of all, you need to pay attention to the structures from well-established manufacturers. In this case the quality of properly manufactured products will be at a high level.
First of all, it is worth looking at how the toilet is attached. If the room is very small, you need to choose a suspended model. This is very convenient, because under it there is a place for a basket with all kinds of cleaning products. In a more spacious room, you can install a convenient structure combined with a bidet.
When buying, you need to pay attention and to the height of the toilet. It should be selected so that all family members are comfortable using it. When a person sits on it, their feet should rest on the floor covering. In addition, the muscles should not be tense.
The choice of material from which the toilet will be made depends on preferences, as well as the financial situation of the buyer. Most often, products are chosen from porcelain or plastic. They are affordable and easy to care for.
Review overview
Today there are a large number of types of toilets. Therefore, buyers can purchase the model that suits them best. Many people prefer suspended structures and are very satisfied.
It is also worth noting that now users are more likely to pay attention either to expensive and high-quality German and Italian brands, or to domestic products of the middle price category. It is not necessary that the price of the toilet is too high, the main thing is that it corresponds to its quality, and the manufacturer provides a guarantee for its products.
Many users like the models that are equipped with the latest technology. For poorly heated rooms buy toilets with heated seats. For small bathrooms, it makes sense to buy a model with an anti-splash system, so that the toilet bowl does not splash nearby equipment when flushing the sewage.
Very good feedback received rimless models. The only thing customers don't like about them is the high price. Otherwise, they are good both externally and in terms of cleaning and hygiene.
Knowing all this information, you can choose a high-quality and very comfortable toilet that will last a long time without breaking.
For information on how to choose a toilet, see the next video.