Skirted and concealed toilets are two different styles of toilets that have some key differences. The main difference is that a skirted toilet has an exposed trapway, while a concealed toilet has a hidden trapway within the wall.
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What is a Skirted Toilet?
A skirted toilet is a toilet that has a base that covers the outer edges of the toilet tank and bowl. This base is often called a “skirt.” The skirt extends down to the floor, covering the space between the tank and bowl and the floor. Underneath the skirt is the toilet’s exposed trapway and drainpipe.
Skirted toilets create a smooth, seamless look by hiding the gap between the tank and bowl. However, the piping and trapway underneath the toilet is still visible. The skirt simply obscures the connections between the tank and bowl.
Benefits of Skirted Toilets
- More streamlined, seamless look
- Easier to clean as there are fewer grooves and crevices
- Often more affordable than concealed trapway toilets
Drawbacks of Skirted Toilets
- Exposed piping and trapway not as aesthetically pleasing
- May need access panel to service plumbing
What is a Concealed Toilet?
A concealed toilet has its trapway and drainpipe built into the wall behind the toilet. You cannot see any of the piping or trapway – it is completely hidden within the wall. The tank and bowl of a concealed toilet appear to float above the floor because there is no piping or connections visible underneath.
Benefits of Concealed Toilets
- Very sleek, minimalist look as all piping is hidden
- Easier to clean around base as there are no pipes or trapway
- No need for access panel for plumbing service
Drawbacks of Concealed Toilets
- More expensive as installation is more complex
- May not be possible with some existing plumbing configurations
- Potential for more issues or leaks within the wall
Main Differences
The main differences between skirted and concealed toilets are:
| Skirted Toilet | Concealed Toilet |
|---|---|
| Exposed trapway and piping under skirt | Trapway and piping hidden in wall |
| Skirt covers floor gap | No floor gap as pipes are hidden |
| May need access panel | No need for access panel |
| Typically more affordable | Typically more expensive |
Conclusion
In summary, skirted toilets have a skirt that covers the piping and floor gap between the tank and bowl. Concealed toilets have no piping or trapway visible as it is built into the wall. Concealed toilets provide a very sleek look but are more complex to install and cost more. Skirted toilets are a more affordable option that still hides the floor gap.
When choosing between a skirted or concealed toilet, consider your budget, existing plumbing, and the aesthetic you want. Skirted toilets offer an economical way to get a streamlined look, while concealed toilets provide the most seamless appearance.