Bath
The Difference Between a One-Piece and a Two-Piece Toilet
What to consider when choosing a toilet
If you’re planning on replacing an existing toilet or buying one for a new build, you will need to consider a few things in order to choose the right toilet for your needs. You need to think about functionality, style, and cost. You also need to consider whether to buy a one-piece toilet or a two-piece toilet.
The main difference between a one-piece and a two-piece toilet is exactly what the name implies. A one-piece toilet is a molded unit where the tank and bowl are one continuous piece. A two-piece toilet is comprised of a separate tank and a separate bowl that are connected together. There are other differences too which should factor in your purchase decision. Let’s compare the differences between these two types of toilets to help you decide which is best for you.
One-piece toilets
All toilets have two main components: the bowl and the tank. Because they combine the bowl and tank in one complete unit, one-piece toilets are a great choice if you prefer a sleeker look. Many also have a skirted design which conceals the trapway rather than have it exposed. Because the sides of the toilet are smooth, they are easier to wipe down compared to having to clean around the curves and crevices of the “snakelike” piping of an exposed trapway. Even in non-skirted models, one-piece toilets are still easier to clean because they have a seamless transition from tank to bowl without the gap or crevices between separate pieces that can collect dust and dirt in these hard-to-reach spaces.
Though they are heavier to transport and lift, they are easier to install since the tank and bowl do not need to be connected and bolted together. Due to the one-piece design, however, they may not offer as many options for height and rough-in configuration that you would find in two-piece models. Plus, if the bowl or tank get cracked or need replacing, you will have to buy a whole new toilet instead of just the single component.
Pros of a one-piece toilet
- Easier to clean
- Sleeker, more streamlined look
- More durable
- Less likely to leak
Cons of a one-piece toilet
- Heavier to lift during install
- More expensive
- May be harder to match rough distance
- More difficult to ship and transport
Two-piece toilets
Because they are made of two separate components, the tank and the bowl, two-piece toilets come in a wider range of heights and rough-in options and tend to be more economical in price. Some manufacturers will offer several tanks and bowls within a collection that can be mixed and matched to create a toilet that best suits your application. With two separately boxed components, these types of toilets are easier to transport, carry, and maneuver during installation. They will require a little more time and steps to install since the tank and bowl will need to be connected.
Though not a common occurrence, two-piece toilets can develop leaks between the tank and bowl if the gasket fails or the washers on the connecting bolts need replacing. If either the bowl or the tank gets damaged and needs replacing, a two-piece design means you only need to buy the one replacement component and not an entire toilet. Dirt and dust can accumulate in the slight gap between the tank and bowl, making a two-piece toilet more time-consuming and difficult to clean. Most also have exposed trapway piping which also tends to collect debris in the crevices where the pipe curves. Skirted two-piece toilets cover the exposed trapway, making the base easier to clean.
Pros of a two-piece toilet
- If one piece is cracked or damaged, you don’t need to replace the whole toilet
- Less expensive
- More options in height and rough-in dimensions
- Easier to maneuver during install
Cons of a two-piece toilet
- Less streamlined so harder to clean
- Installation requires more steps
- More likely to leak
Once you have decided on your toilet design, check out the wide selection of toilets in sizes, styles, and designs to fit your requirements. Check out the selection of both one-piece, two-piece, and wall-hung toilets at Riverbend Home.
