Multiple options are available when selecting a new toilet, and one important decision that needs to be made is whether to use an elongated or a round toilet bowl. Which one is right for you?
Elongated Bowls
With the vast majority of new toilets we install, the elongated bowl is the one installed. This is the style of toilet bowl that is an oval-type shape. Not only does it have a more modern look, but it is more comfortable to use. This type of toilet is the one that the entire market is gravitating toward, and is typically the right option. With the exception of a few corner cases.
Round Bowls
Older toilets tend to have round bowls. While not typically as comfortable as an elongated bowl, when replacing a toilet they may be the only option that fits into the bathroom space. As older bathrooms were designed for a toilet with smaller dimensions, it is important to understand how much clearance there is between the toilet and other items in the bathroom before upgrading to an elongated toilet. With some bathrooms, it may be nearly impossible to open the door or to access the shower, if a toilet with a larger bowl is installed.
The Verdict: Elongated is Typically the Better Choice
When upgrading, Elongated is typically the way to go. Unless there is a particular bathroom design that won’t accommodate the bigger toilet, it’s almost always the right choice.