Toilet Style Guide: Round, Elongated, Wall-Hung & More

Round Bowls

Round toilets are what most people grew up with, especially in homes built before the 1990s. They have a short, circular bowl that typically extends less from the wall than elongated styles. If your bathroom has limited space, like in half-baths, older homes, or small powder rooms, round bowl toilets can be a smart pick. They usually measure about 16.5 inches from the mounting holes to the front of the bowl, which helps keep the footprint tight. Round bowl toilets tend to be slightly less expensive than elongated ones as well, and because they’re lighter and take up less space, they’re easier to install. However, round bowls can be less comfortable for adults. Taller users, people with mobility issues, or those who spend more time seated may notice a difference in support. They usually work just fine in households with young kids or people under 5'5", but if you're thinking long-term, especially with aging-in-place in mind, round might not be the best fit.

Elongated Bowls

Elongated toilets have a longer, oval-shaped bowl that adds about two extra inches of seating surface. This subtle design tweak can make a noticeable difference in comfort. For this reason, most modern homes are built with elongated toilets by default. They're especially common in master bathrooms or shared family spaces where comfort is a higher priority. From a plumbing perspective, elongated toilets work the same as round ones. The installation method doesn’t change, and neither does their compatibility with standard drain placements. They can take up a bit more room, so if you're working with a tight layout, measure carefully. If you're hiring a plumber to update or install an elongated toilet, expect a process that's very similar to replacing a round bowl, unless your space is unusually tight. Always check rough-in measurements before purchase.

Wall-Hung Toilets

Wall-hung toilets are sleek and streamlined. The tank is hidden inside the wall, and the bowl appears to float above the floor. They’re popular in modern design circles for their minimalist look, but they also offer practical benefits. Cleaning around and under the toilet becomes a lot easier when there's no base to scrub around. Installing a wall-hung toilet is much more complicated. This style requires some serious framing work and specialized support inside the wall. It’s best handled during new construction or a full remodel, where you can open the wall and reinforce it. Retrofitting a wall-hung toilet into an existing bathroom usually calls for an experienced plumber and possibly a structural contractor. They also require in-wall carriers and flush actuators, which can be more expensive than standard toilets. Long-term maintenance might also involve opening the wall, depending on how the carrier system is set up. For those reasons, some homeowners avoid wall-hung toilets unless aesthetics or space constraints make it worthwhile. If you like the look and you're already investing in major changes, a wall-hung toilet can offer a unique design edge. Just make sure to coordinate closely with your plumbing repair service team during planning so they can account for water supply lines, venting, and code compliance.