When choosing a toilet for your home or business, the decision often comes down to whether you prefer a one-piece or two-piece toilet model. Both designs have their advantages and drawbacks, and the best choice depends on your needs, preferences, and budget.
Toilets come in an array of shapes, sizes, and options. If you’re trying to determine whether you want a one-piece or a two-piece toilet, we’ll outline the differences to help with your selection. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you decide.
Table of Contents
What is a One-Piece Toilet?
A one-piece toilet combines the tank and bowl into a single, seamless unit. This modern design offers a sleek and compact appearance while reducing the number of components.
Pros of One-Piece Toilets:
- Easy to Clean: The seamless design eliminates gaps, preventing dirt and bacteria buildup.
- Space-Saving: Its compact design is ideal for smaller bathrooms.
- Durable: With no separate parts, it’s less likely to develop leaks between the tank and bowl.
- Modern Aesthetic: Its sleek look complements contemporary bathrooms.
Cons of One-Piece Toilets:
- Higher Cost: Generally more expensive than two-piece models.
- Heavier: Difficult to move or install due to its all-in-one structure.
- Limited Customization: Few options for replacing individual parts if damaged.
Review: Our Favorite Budget-Friendly One-Piece Toilet
When it comes to combining style, functionality, and convenience, our favorite one-piece toilet is the Toto UltraMax II. Its sleek design, efficient performance, and modern features make it a standout choice for any bathroom upgrade.
Why We Love the Toto UltraMax II
1. Sleek Design
The one-piece construction gives the UltraMax II a seamless, modern appearance. With no gaps between the tank and bowl, it’s not only visually appealing but also easier to clean and maintain. Its compact design makes it perfect for smaller bathrooms, adding both elegance and practicality.
2. Superior Flushing Performance
Equipped with Toto’s Tornado Flush system, the UltraMax II delivers powerful and efficient flushing with minimal water usage. Using only 1.28 gallons per flush (WaterSense certified), it saves water without sacrificing performance, keeping your toilet clean with every flush.
3. Comfortable and User-Friendly
This toilet features a universal height design, making it comfortable for users of all ages and abilities. The elongated bowl adds extra comfort, while the included SoftClose seat ensures quiet and gentle closing, eliminating loud slams.
4. Easy Installation and Maintenance
The UltraMax II is straightforward to install, and its durable construction minimizes the need for frequent maintenance. Its smooth surface prevents debris and mold buildup, making it a low-maintenance option for busy households.
What Could Be Improved
While the Toto UltraMax II excels in many areas, it is on the pricier side compared to other one-piece toilets. Additionally, its heavier design may require professional installation for some users. However, these factors are outweighed by its long-term benefits and reliability.
The Verdict
The Toto UltraMax II stands out as a top choice for those seeking a high-quality, stylish, and efficient one-piece toilet. Its powerful flush system, modern design, and user-friendly features make it worth the investment. Whether you’re upgrading a bathroom or outfitting a new space, the UltraMax II delivers exceptional performance and durability.
Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)
Best For: Modern bathrooms, water efficiency, and low-maintenance households.
What is a Two-Piece Toilet?
A two-piece toilet has a separate tank and bowl that are assembled during installation. It is the traditional style commonly found in homes.
Pros of Two-Piece Toilets:
- Cost-Effective: Usually more affordable than one-piece models.
- Easier to Move: Separate components make it lighter and easier to transport.
- More Options: Wide range of designs, heights, and flushing mechanisms.
- Easy Repairs: Damaged parts can be replaced individually.
Cons of Two-Piece Toilets:
- Harder to Clean: The gap between the tank and bowl can collect dirt and germs.
- Potential Leaks: Connections between the tank and bowl are prone to leaks over time.
- Bulkier Design: May not fit well in smaller bathrooms.
Review: Our Favorite Budget-Friendly Two-Piece Toilet
When it comes to reliable performance and value, our favorite two-piece toilet is the Kohler Wellworth Classic. Known for its timeless design and dependable functionality, this toilet is a top choice for homeowners seeking a balance of affordability and quality.
Why We Love the Kohler Wellworth Classic
1. Classic Design
The Kohler Wellworth Classic offers a traditional two-piece structure with a versatile design that fits seamlessly into various bathroom styles. Its clean lines and standard height make it a practical and attractive choice for any space.
2. Efficient Flushing System
Equipped with Kohler’s Class Five flushing technology, the Wellworth Classic provides powerful and consistent performance. Its 1.28-gallon-per-flush efficiency meets EPA WaterSense criteria, ensuring water conservation without compromising effectiveness.
3. Easy Installation and Maintenance
The two-piece design simplifies transport and installation, making it a great option for DIYers. Additionally, replacement parts are widely available, allowing for easy repairs and upgrades over time.
4. Comfortable and Practical
This model is available in both round and elongated bowl options, catering to various bathroom sizes and user preferences. The design prioritizes comfort while maintaining a smaller footprint for tighter spaces.
What Could Be Improved
While the Kohler Wellworth Classic is a fantastic all-around option, it lacks some of the advanced features found in higher-end models, such as soft-close seats or a universal height for enhanced accessibility. However, these omissions keep the price point accessible, making it a great value choice.
The Verdict
The Kohler Wellworth Classic is a dependable, cost-effective two-piece toilet that delivers excellent performance and a timeless design. Whether you’re replacing an older model or outfitting a new bathroom, this toilet offers a practical and stylish solution.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
Best For: Budget-conscious buyers, traditional bathroom styles, and households seeking reliable performance.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between One-Piece or Two-Piece Toilets
Weight and Size
Both one-piece and two-piece toilets come in an array of sizes and shapes. Generally, one-piece toilets take up less space due to their design, as the toilet bowl and toilet tank are molded together. This means they don’t require much room and are great for small bathrooms.
The concern is that one-piece toilets tend to be created according to comfort height guidelines. The toilet bowl sits at 17” rather than the standard height of 15”. Taller seats make it easier to stand up and sit down.
They eliminate the discomfort that some people experience while squatting down to get to the toilet and having their knees at that awkward angle. Comfort height toilets are beneficial for seniors and taller people.
On the other hand, there is a benefit to having a lower toilet seat. If you are shorter in stature or have small children, you may want a seat that is easier to reach. The lower squat position is also more beneficial physically, as it allows your body to eliminate waste more effectively. Furthermore, high toilet seats can cut off leg circulation and make things more difficult for little boys.
Two-piece toilets come in both comfort and standard height. They also come in different sizes to accommodate both smaller bathrooms and larger bathrooms.
When selecting a toilet for your bathroom, the most important measurement to take is the rough-in. This is the distance running from the wall behind your toilet to the center of your drainpipe. Most toilets have a 12” rough-in. However, there are those with a 10”–14” rough-in.
Two-piece toilets will provide you with seating options on different-sized rough-ins since the bowl size does not change. You can simply order a different tank to place on top of the bowl. If your rough-in is an odd size, you will likely have more options available with a two-piece toilet than with a one-piece.
One-piece toilets are heavier, while two-piece toilets can come apart, making them easier to move. This means you are moving half the weight at a time. One-piece toilets must be moved in one go since they don’t come apart. Maneuvering them around corners can be challenging. Shipping costs may also be higher if you are having it delivered.
Appearance
Both toilet types come in a variety of styles. Since a one-piece toilet may have a sleeker look, many homeowners prefer to use them in contemporary-decorated bathrooms. However, there are one-piece toilets that are more traditional in appearance, and there are two-piece toilets that appear modern. Generally, two-piece toilets have a more standard look, but some have a unique flair.
Durability
When it comes to durability, there is a slight advantage to buying a one-piece toilet. The coupling found between the bowl and tank of two-piece toilets may crack with time, which means you may need to replace the coupling.
In toilets that are extremely old, the rubber gaskets located between the two sections may deteriorate. This can cause leaks. The fix, though, is easy and inexpensive.
One-piece toilets are molded. There is less of a chance for them to break between couplings. Yet if there is a crack in the tank’s china, you will have to replace the whole toilet. The benefit to a two-piece toilet is that if you have a crack in the china, you can just replace the section that is cracked.
If you need to replace any internal parts for either toilet type, they are the same. Seats can easily be removed and replaced. If you properly care for your toilet, it can last over 50 years.
Flushing Efficiency and Power
Both toilet types have a variety of flushing technology. This ranges from towers to flappers. They are also available in low-flow versions, which use less than one gallon of water with each flush.
Cost
One-piece toilets are higher in cost than the two-piece models, even if they are created by the same company and have a similar style. An example is the Kohler Memoirs Comfort Height toilet, which is priced at $449.16 USD for a two-piece model. In a one-piece unit, the same toilet is a bit shorter but costs $1,231.43 USD. That is a difference of $782.27.
Installation
When it comes to installation, budget for about $100. One-piece toilets will generally cost around $500-$1,300 with installation, while a two-piece will be closer to $250-$700.
In terms of installation difficulty, two-piece toilets are easier to maneuver but need to be bolted down. One-piece toilets are more difficult to move, but there is no assembly required.
To install the toilet, you need to put a wax ring over your waste pipe. Set your toilet on top of the ring at a slight angle. Then, sharply twist the toilet so that it faces frontward. Installers like to sit on the toilet, then rock side to side and front to back so that the weight is evenly distributed. Then, bolt your toilet to the floor.
Your water line is sealed and at the bottom of your toilet tank. Once the water is turned on, allow the toilet to fill prior to flushing it so you can check for any leaks. It should take about an hour for this step.
Maintenance
One-piece toilets require less maintenance than their counterparts. The molded shape means it is easier to clean since there are fewer small spaces where bacteria can culminate.
Which Toilet Should I Choose?
Buy a one-piece toilet if you want:
- An easy-to-clean toilet
- Modern, sleeker design
- More compact height
- A durable toilet that is less likely to crack
- A quicker install
- Water-saving and flushing options
- To sit at comfortable heights
Consider a two-piece toilet if you want:
- To pay less for the toilet
- Options for style, rough-in, and height
- Water-saving and flushing options
- A toilet that is lighter and easier to move
- A variety of tank and bowl colors and styles
- Something that is cost-effective to install and ship
Here’s a comparison table to help determine whether a one-piece or two-piece toilet is better for your needs:
| Feature | One-Piece Toilet | Two-Piece Toilet |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Sleek, modern, seamless design | Traditional, with separate tank and bowl |
| Ease of Cleaning | Easier to clean due to its seamless construction | Harder to clean because of gaps between the tank and bowl |
| Size | Compact, ideal for small bathrooms | Bulkier, requiring more space |
| Cost | Generally more expensive | More budget-friendly |
| Durability | Fewer parts, less prone to leaks | Connection between tank and bowl can develop leaks over time |
| Installation | Heavier and harder to install | Lighter and easier to transport and install |
| Repairability | Harder to replace parts; entire unit may need replacement | Easier to repair by replacing individual components |
| Aesthetic Appeal | Better for modern, contemporary bathrooms | Suitable for traditional or standard bathroom designs |
| Availability | Limited options compared to two-piece designs | Wider range of styles and options available |
Verdict: Choose a one-piece toilet for a modern, low-maintenance option, and opt for a two-piece toilet if you prioritize budget, ease of repair, or variety.
Differences in Installation Procedures Between One-Piece or Two-Piece Toilets
While installing a one-piece and a two-piece toilet follows the same basic steps, there are key differences due to their design and structure. Here’s how the procedures vary:
1. Weight and Handling
- One-Piece Toilets:
- Heavier and bulkier because the tank and bowl are a single unit.
- Typically requires two people to lift and position during installation.
- More challenging to align with the floor flange due to its weight.
- Two-Piece Toilets:
- Easier to handle since the tank and bowl are installed separately.
- Allows for better control when positioning each part individually.
2. Assembly Before Installation
- One-Piece Toilets:
- No assembly is required since the tank and bowl are already connected.
- Streamlines the installation process.
- Two-Piece Toilets:
- Requires attaching the tank to the bowl during or after placement on the floor.
- Involves tightening bolts and using a gasket to seal the connection.
3. Transport and Placement
- One-Piece Toilets:
- Transporting the unit is more challenging due to its bulk and weight.
- Placement requires careful alignment as a single, heavy unit.
- Two-Piece Toilets:
- Easier to transport in parts.
- The bowl is positioned first, then the tank is mounted on top.
4. Installation Time
- One-Piece Toilets:
- Faster overall since there’s no need to assemble parts.
- Two-Piece Toilets:
- Takes slightly longer due to the additional step of connecting the tank to the bowl.
5. Risk of Leaks
- One-Piece Toilets:
- Reduced risk of leaks because there’s no connection between the tank and bowl.
- Two-Piece Toilets:
- Potential for leaks at the tank-to-bowl connection if the gasket is not sealed properly or bolts are overtightened.
Which is Easier to Install?
- Two-Piece Toilets are generally easier to install for DIYers due to their lighter weight and separate components.
- One-Piece Toilets may require professional help due to their bulk and weight, but they involve fewer steps once positioned.
Both types of toilets can be installed successfully with the right tools and preparation. The choice depends on your comfort level with handling heavier units or completing assembly tasks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a two-piece toilet better than a one-piece?
A two-piece toilet is better for affordability, easier transport, and customizable repairs, while a one-piece toilet excels in sleek design, easy cleaning, and durability. The better choice depends on your needs and preferences.
Is there an advantage to a one-piece toilet?
Yes, a one-piece toilet offers advantages like a sleek, modern design, easier cleaning due to its seamless construction, and reduced risk of leaks between the tank and bowl. It’s also compact, making it ideal for smaller bathrooms.
What are the benefits of a 2 piece toilet?
A two-piece toilet is more affordable, easier to transport and install, and offers greater flexibility for repairs since the tank and bowl can be replaced separately. It also comes in a wide range of styles and sizes to fit various needs.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between a one-piece and two-piece toilet comes down to your bathroom space, budget, and personal preferences. A one-piece toilet is ideal for those seeking a sleek, modern design with easy cleaning, while a two-piece toilet offers affordability, flexibility, and ease of repair. Carefully weigh the pros and cons of each to select the perfect toilet for your home.