Washroom Upgrade: Expert Toilet Buying Tips

Introduction

Upgrading your washroom is one of the most effective ways to enhance your home’s comfort, functionality, and overall value. Among all the elements in a bathroom, the toilet plays a central role—not just in terms of utility, but also in style, water efficiency, and hygiene. When planning a toilet upgrade, it's essential to consider trusted brands like Glacier Bay toilets, known for combining affordability with solid performance. Widely available through Home Depot, Glacier Bay offers a range of toilet models that cater to different preferences and space requirements, making them a reliable option for homeowners and renovators alike.

If you're ready to elevate your bathroom with a better toilet, here are expert tips to guide you through the process.

1. Know Your Bathroom Space

Before choosing a toilet, take precise measurements of your bathroom, especially the rough-in distance—the space from the wall to the center of the floor drain. Most toilets have a standard 12-inch rough-in, but older homes may have 10 or 14 inches. Choosing a toilet with the correct rough-in ensures easy installation and proper function. Glacier Bay offers a variety of models that fit standard and compact spaces, including options designed for small washrooms or powder rooms.

2. Pick the Right Bowl Shape

Toilet bowls generally come in elongated or round shapes. Elongated bowls offer greater comfort with more sitting room, making them popular in master bathrooms. Round bowls are ideal for tighter spaces due to their smaller footprint. Glacier Bay provides both shapes, allowing you to select a model that matches both your comfort needs and spatial constraints.

3. Consider Toilet Height

Toilet height significantly affects usability. Standard height toilets are about 15 inches from the floor to the seat, while comfort height (also called chair height) toilets are typically 17 to 19 inches. Comfort height models are recommended for older adults, people with mobility issues, and taller individuals. Glacier Bay toilets come in various height options to accommodate diverse household needs.

4. Look for Water-Saving Features

Water conservation is a top priority for many homeowners, and modern toilets are designed to reduce water usage without compromising flushing power. Look for models with the WaterSense® label, indicating that the toilet uses 1.28 gallons per flush or less. Some toilets also offer dual-flush technology, allowing users to choose between a light flush for liquid waste and a full flush for solid waste.

Glacier Bay toilets are well-regarded for their water-efficient performance. Many of their models are WaterSense-certified and come with dual-flush options, helping you reduce your environmental footprint and save on water bills.

5. Why Choose Glacier Bay Toilet Parts?

In addition to complete toilet systems, Glacier Bay also offers high-quality toilet replacement parts—making it easy to maintain and extend the life of your toilet. Whether you need a new fill valve, flapper, flush lever, or wax ring, Glacier Bay parts are designed specifically for their toilets, ensuring a perfect fit and dependable performance.

Purchasing Glacier Bay toilet parts from the official Home Depot website guarantees you're getting original components rather than generic alternatives. These parts are user-friendly and often come with clear installation instructions, making repairs and maintenance more manageable for homeowners. Using authentic parts not only maintains your toilet’s performance but also preserves warranty coverage and long-term efficiency.

6. One-Piece vs. Two-Piece Toilets

When selecting a toilet, consider whether you prefer a one-piece or two-piece design. One-piece toilets are sleek, modern, and easier to clean since there’s no gap between the tank and bowl. However, they are typically heavier and more expensive. Two-piece toilets, which feature a separate tank and bowl, are more traditional and generally more affordable. Glacier Bay offers both styles, giving you the freedom to choose the model that fits your budget and design preferences.

7. Check for Added Features

Some modern toilets come with added features like soft-close seats, built-in bidets, or easy-clean coatings. Glacier Bay toilets often come in complete kits that include a seat, wax ring, and installation hardware—making them a convenient choice for DIYers. If you're upgrading your washroom and want a hassle-free installation, these all-in-one packages save both time and money.

8. Evaluate Warranty and Reviews

Always review product specifications and customer feedback before purchasing. Look for toilets that offer a warranty on the ceramic parts and flushing mechanisms. Glacier Bay typically offers limited lifetime warranties on their vitreous china and several years on parts, providing extra peace of mind. Positive reviews on ease of installation, efficiency, and durability make Glacier Bay a solid contender in the toilet market.

Final Thoughts

A successful washroom upgrade starts with selecting the right toilet—one that balances comfort, design, efficiency, and affordability. Glacier Bay toilets offer an excellent mix of all these elements, making them a top pick for homeowners looking to enhance their bathroom experience. And with readily available Glacier Bay toilet parts, ongoing maintenance is simple and cost-effective.

By following these expert tips, you can confidently choose a toilet that fits your lifestyle and helps turn your washroom into a modern, functional, and water-saving space.