Adding a separate water closet to your bathroom design is a significant decision. As an isolated space within a bathroom to house just the toilet (and occasionally a small sink), it offers both advantages and challenges. Read on as DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Orland Park, your experienced bathroom remodeler, highlights the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.
The Privacy Advantage
One of the foremost benefits of a water closet is the privacy it affords. In households where bathroom schedules clash, a water closet allows one person to use the shower or sink while another uses the toilet, minimizing morning routines’ wait times and enhancing privacy.
Hygiene and Health
The separation of the toilet from the rest of the bathroom can drastically reduce the dispersal of microscopic particles, which are inevitable with every flush. Enclosing the toilet within a water closet can protect toothbrushes, towels, and other personal items from exposure to harmful bacteria.
The Value Proposition
From a real estate perspective, adding a water closet can be a worthwhile investment, especially in housing markets, where distinguishing features add to a home’s appeal and resale value. Realtors often highlight unique features, such as water closets, when listing properties, as they cater to buyers looking for luxury and convenience in their living spaces.
Accessibility Concerns
For those considering aging in place, your bathroom contractor may have you reconsider adding a water closet due to accessibility concerns. Since it is compact, it is not often designed to accommodate wheelchairs or walkers, which could pose a significant issue for mobility. A water closet may indeed prove more to be a hindrance than help, signaling the need for careful consideration of future needs versus present desires.
Space Consideration
Homes vary significantly in size and layout, and not every residence can accommodate the extra square footage a water closet demands without compromising overall bathroom space or usability. In smaller homes or condos, the space taken up by a water closet might instead be needed for storage or shower space.
Let’s Start a Conversation!
The decision to add a water closet to your home should be weighed against factors such as privacy needs, space availability, hygiene concerns, and future mobility considerations. While it presents a significant advantage from a privacy and hygiene standpoint, space and accessibility issues must be carefully considered, especially in homes where space is at a premium or accommodations for aging in place are necessary. Ultimately, it will depend on your personal preferences, household dynamics, and long-term living plans.
Instead of searching online for a “bathroom contractor near me,” get in touch with DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Orland Park! Our team is here to help you make a strategic decision for your next bathroom remodel. Give us a call today at (708) 578-6832, or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment in Frankfort, Mokena, New Lenox, and the surrounding cities.
