One of the many considerations homeowners look into when planning a bathroom remodel is whether or not to create a separate water closet within the bathroom. This blog from DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Greenville, a trusted bathroom contractor, discusses what a water closet is and its pros and cons.
Understanding the Water Closet
Originally a British term dating back to the 19th century with the advent of flush toilets, the water closet refers to a separate space within a bathroom designated for the toilet. Over time, as bathrooms evolved into multifunctional spaces, the distinct advantages of having a separate water closet have come into clearer focus, especially in terms of privacy and hygiene.
The Benefits of Installing a Water Closet
Having a water closet in your bathroom has its advantages, including the following:
- Enhanced Privacy and Utility. The most compelling argument for a water closet is the privacy it affords. With this feature present, one can use the toilet while another can brush their teeth or take a shower, promoting privacy. This is especially beneficial in shared bathrooms common in multi-generational households.
- Hygienic Advantages. The containment of toilet plumes — the microscopic spray released upon flushing — is another significant benefit. With the toilet isolated, the spread of bacteria to toiletries and other surfaces in the bathroom is minimized. This setup is particularly relevant in areas where homes range from historic to new builds, and homeowners are increasingly interested in modern, hygienic solutions for shared spaces.
Considering the Drawbacks
Your bathroom remodeler might also tell you to reconsider incorporating a water closet in your bathroom because of the following:
- Space Limitations. The primary constraint of a water closet is the need for additional space, which can be a premium in smaller homes. Implementing a separate water closet could mean sacrificing square footage from other areas of the bathroom or bedroom, which might not align with everyone’s design priorities or budget constraints.
- Aging in Place Concerns. Another consideration for homeowners planning long-term occupancy is the concept of aging in place. The confined nature of a water closet may not be easily accessible with mobility aids such as walkers or wheelchairs. This could necessitate future renovations to maintain the bathroom’s functionality as the needs of your household evolve.
Making the Decision
Your decision to enclose the toilet area in your bathroom ultimately depends on your specific circumstances. If your home has ample bathroom space, the privacy and hygiene benefits of a water closet are clear. Otherwise, having space limitations or planning for aging in place means looking into other solutions that promote privacy and hygiene without fully separating the toilet.
Let’s Start a Conversation!
Searching for a “bathroom contractor near me“? DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Greenville offers a wide range of professional remodeling services, including kitchen and bathroom remodeling. To get started with a no-obligation consultation, call us at (864) 214-0296 or contact us online! We serve homeowners in Greenville, Greer, Mauldin, Simpsonville, Fountain Inn, Taylors, Travelers Rest, Easley, Piedmont and Spartanburg, as well as the surrounding communities.
