When renovating, refurbishing when installing a new bathroom toilet, one of the first big decisions is whether to go with a floor standing toilet or wall hung toilet? Both styles have distinct installation requirements, costs and design benefits. Let’s us help you explore the differences & compare installation costs to help you make an informed choice.
What is a floor standing toilet?
A floor standing toilet (also called a close-coupled or traditional toilet) sits directly on the bathroom floor, with the cistern mounted either on the back of the bowl or connected behind the wall. It’s the most common toilet type and generally easier to install.
What is a wall hung toilet?
A wall hung toilet is mounted directly onto the wall, with the cistern and plumbing concealed inside a wall cavity or a specially designed frame system. The toilet bowl itself is suspended above the floor, creating a sleek, modern look.
Installation cost comparison
Toilet type |
Average material cost (Toilet + Frame only) |
Labour cost (Installation) |
Total installed cost (approx.) |
Wall Hung Toilet |
£300 – £500+ (frame/toilet only) |
£750 – £900+ |
£1,100 – £1,500+ |
Floor Standing Toilet |
£100 – £300 |
£150 – £250 |
£250 – £550 |
Pros & Cons of floor standing toilets
Pros:
- Lower purchase and installation costs
- Easier and quicker to install or replace
- Works with most existing plumbing setups
- Simple maintenance and repairs
Cons:
- Takes up more floor space
- Can be harder to clean around the base
- More traditional look may not suit modern designs
Pros and Cons of Wall hung toilets
Pros:
- Sleek, contemporary aesthetic
- Easier to clean underneath so is better hygiene
- Saves floor space & ideal for small bathrooms
- Adjustable height during installation
- Concealed cistern reduces visual clutter
Cons:
- Higher installation cost and complexity
- Requires a strong wall or frame for support
- Maintenance can be more complicated (access panels needed)
- Retrofitting in older homes may require structural work
Installation considerations
Floor Standing Toilet:
- Mounted directly on the floor with bolts
- Standard plumbing connections for water supply and waste
- Easier to replace without wall modifications
- Suitable for DIY installation in some cases
-
Wall hung Toilet:
- Requires a steel frame or carrier system installed inside the wall
- Wall may need to be reinforced or built out to accommodate the frame
- Plumbing and cistern must be concealed behind the wall or within the frame
- Professional Installation is highly recommended.
Which toilet should you choose?
Choose a Wall Hung Toilet if: |
| You want a modern, minimalist bathroom look |
| You have the budget for higher installation costs |
| You want to maximize floor space and hygiene |
Choose a Floor Standing Toilet if: |
| You want a budget-friendly option |
| You prefer easier installation and maintenance |
| You’re working with existing plumbing and walls |
Final Thoughts
Both floor standing toilets & wall hung have their place in bathroom design. Your decision should consider your budget, bathroom layout, aesthetic preferences & willingness to invest in installation complexity.
With over 20 years of experience fitting bathrooms across Bromley BR1, Bromley BR2, Bromley BR3, West Wickham BR4, Farnborough BR6, Orpington BR5, Orpington BR6, Chislehurst BR7, Petts Wood BR5 Crystal Palace, Brockley, Hither Green SE13, London Streatham SW16; London Abbey Wood SE2; London Blackheath SE3; London Brockley SE4; London Catford SE6; London Deptford SE8; London Eltham SE9; Greenwich London SE10; London Lee SE12; London Lewisham SE13; London Norwood SE19; London Anerley SE20; London Dulwich SE21; London East Dulwich SE22; London Forest Hill SE23; London Herne Hill SE24; London South Norwood SE25; London Sydenham