Round vs Elongated Toilet—Which Is Easier to Install?

When it comes to installing a new toilet, one of the key considerations for homeowners is the shape of the toilet. The choice between a round vs elongated toilet may seem simple, but it actually has significant implications for the installation process.

This practical guide will explore the installation process for round vs elongated toilets from the complexity, time, and tools needed for each type, helping you decide which is easier to install and best suited for your bathroom.

Overview of Round vs Elongated Toilet

Before we get into the installation specifics, it’s essential to understand the basic differences between a round vs elongated toilet.

• Round Toilets: A round toilet features a circular seat and bowl. These toilets are typically shorter and more compact, which makes them ideal for smaller bathrooms where space is limited. The design is more traditional, and while not as spacious as elongated toilets, they are perfectly functional.
• Elongated Toilets: In contrast, elongated toilets have an oval-shaped seat and bowl, offering a more comfortable sitting experience due to their extra length. These toilets are preferred in larger bathrooms or for those who prioritize comfort. However, their larger size may make installation more challenging compared to round toilets.

Now, let’s dive into how the installation process differs when it comes to round vs elongated toilet shapes.

Installation Process: Round vs Elongated Toilet

Regardless of whether you opt for a round toilet versus elongated, the basic steps of installation are very similar. Below is a brief outline of the typical toilet installation process:

Remove the Old Toilet: If you’re replacing an existing toilet, you will need to disconnect the water supply, remove any bolts securing the toilet to the floor, and lift the old toilet off the flange.

Prepare the Toilet Flange: The flange is the pipe fitting that attaches the toilet to the drainpipe. Ensure it’s in good condition before installing the new toilet.

Install the Wax Ring: A wax ring is placed between the toilet base and the flange to create a seal and prevent leaks.

Position the Toilet: Once the wax ring is in place, lower the toilet onto the flange, aligning the mounting bolts with the holes in the base.

Secure the Toilet: Tighten the bolts to secure the toilet in place, then reconnect the water supply and test for leaks.

While the overall installation steps are the same for both round toilet vs elongated toilet, let’s now break down how these steps differ in terms of ease of installation.

Space and Size Considerations

Space and size must be considered when either a round or elongated toilet is installed:

Round Toilets

The main advantage of installing a round toilet is the compact size. Round toilets are shorter, making them ideal for smaller bathrooms. This compact design means:

• Easier maneuverability: Round toilets are generally lighter and smaller, making them easier to lift and place during installation. You’ll find it easier to access the installation area, especially if your bathroom has limited space.
• Flexible positioning: With less length, round toilets are more versatile when positioning them within your bathroom layout. There is less concern about whether the toilet will fit comfortably between fixtures, such as a sink or vanity.

For tight spaces, a round toilet is often the better option, as it doesn’t require as much room for proper installation. Its space-saving design makes it ideal for small powder rooms or bathrooms where space efficiency is key.

Elongated Toilets

In contrast, elongated toilets require more space. Their longer design adds additional complexity to the installation:

• Additional space required: Because elongated toilets are longer, they need more floor space in both the front and sides of the toilet. This could be problematic in smaller bathrooms where every inch of space is valuable.
• Tight positioning: Installing an elongated toilet in a small bathroom may force you to adjust the layout of surrounding fixtures or even move plumbing connections to make room for the toilet.

If you have a spacious bathroom, an elongated toilet offers added comfort but might take more effort to install due to the need for additional space. These toilets work well in larger bathrooms where they are not constrained by space limitations.

You can explore the best toilet manufacturer to find the toilet that suits your specific needs.

Tools and Equipment

The tools required for installing a round vs elongated toilet are largely the same. Here are the basic tools you’ll need:

Adjustable wrench: To tighten the bolts securing the toilet to the floor.

Socket wrench: For loosening and removing old toilet bolts.

Wax ring: This seals the base of the toilet to the flange.

Toilet bolts: Fasten the toilet securely to the floor.

Level: Ensures the toilet is positioned evenly.

Round Toilets

Installing a round toilet might be easier in terms of access. The toilet is more maneuverable, so you may find it easier to reach around and tighten bolts without requiring extra tools or extensions.

If you’re working in a tight space, you might need a shorter socket wrench or wrench extension to tighten bolts around the compact design. The simpler design of the round toilet usually means fewer adjustments and a faster installation process.

Elongated Toilets

Due to the larger size and need for additional adjustments, installing an elongated toilet may take more time and patience than installing a round toilet.

The installation process of an elongated toilet will likely require a bit more effort and maneuvering due to the extra length of the toilet. Additionally, the larger bowl and seat may require more effort to align properly during installation.

Time and Complexity

Installation time and complexity are also the key factors in the installation of round toilets vs elongated toilets.

Round Toilets

Installing a round toilet is generally quicker and easier compared to an elongated model. The compact size and lighter weight of the round toilet make it simpler to install:

• Fewer adjustments: Round toilets require fewer changes to existing plumbing or layout because they fit more easily into tight spaces.
• Faster installation: Because of the smaller footprint, the overall installation time for a round toilet can be as short as 1-2 hours, provided no major plumbing issues arise. The ease of handling and simple design also contribute to the faster process.

The streamlined installation process means that homeowners can often complete the job with minimal hassle, especially when replacing an older round toilet with a new model.

Elongated Toilets

An elongated toilet typically takes longer to install:

• More adjustments: Due to the larger size, you may need to adjust the toilet flange or reposition other fixtures to accommodate the toilet.
• Longer installation: Depending on the bathroom layout, an elongated toilet may take 1.5 to 3 hours to install, especially if modifications to the space are necessary.

While the process is still straightforward for both round toilet vs elongated toilet choices, the elongated model requires more time and effort due to its size and potential space constraints. Homeowners may need to allocate extra time to adjust the toilet position or make changes to the surrounding bathroom layout.

Potential Installation Challenges

The below shows the potential installation challenges of round vs elongated toilets.

Round Toilets

Even though round toilets are easier to install overall, they may still present a few challenges:

• Uneven flooring: If the floor is not level, the toilet may wobble, which can lead to discomfort or leaks. Ensuring the flange is installed correctly and using a wax ring that conforms to the toilet base is essential.
• Water supply placement: Depending on the layout, you may face difficulties reaching the water supply valve, although this is common with all toilets, not just round models.

Elongated Toilets

Elongated toilets can introduce their own challenges, such as:

• Space restrictions: The larger size means the toilet may not fit easily in smaller bathrooms. You may have to adjust other fixtures to make room for the elongated design.
• Plumbing adjustments: The extra length may require repositioning the toilet flange or adjusting the water supply connections to accommodate the new toilet.

If the space is tight, installing an elongated toilet may involve more work, such as moving plumbing or altering the layout to ensure the toilet fits properly. The larger dimensions of the toilet may also make it harder to align everything perfectly, which could lead to more installation time and adjustments.

Round Toilet vs Elongated Toilet: Which Is Easier to Install?

In conclusion, the installation of a round toilet vs elongated toilet boils down to the space and size considerations.

If installation speed and ease are your priorities, round toilets are the better choice. However, if comfort and design are more important, investing extra effort in an elongated toilet may be worth it.