Rough-in toilets are designed to fit easily with your existing plumbing. This means you won’t need to make any big changes to your plumbing system when installing the toilet.
If you’re remodeling your bathroom or getting a new toilet, you may notice different rough-in sizes, like 12 inches and 14 inches. You might wonder why are 14″ rough-in toilets more expensive?
The cost of 14-inch rough-in toilets is higher because they have limited availability, are made from higher-quality materials, and require specialized installation.
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Why Are 14” Rough-in Toilets Pricier?
Reason #1: It has low demand
The 12” rough-in toilets are more popular and commonly used, making them more mass-produced and readily available.
On the other hand, 14” rough-in toilets are rare. Manufacturers produce these toilets on a scaled-down due to the limited market. Due to their limited availability and lower sales volume, 14-inch rough-in toilets became niche products.
Niche products often command a higher price due to their exclusivity and the smaller market they serve. Because the potential customer base for 14-inch rough-in toilets is smaller, manufacturers might price them higher to offset the production costs and achieve profitability.
Reason #2: Models come from higher-end product lines
With 12-inch rough-in toilets being the standard, manufacturers may offer more options and designs for this size.
In contrast, the selection of 14-inch rough-in toilets might be more limited, and the available models may come from higher-end or specialized product lines, which can lead to higher prices.
To accommodate the larger rough-in measurement, 14″ rough-in toilets require more material and different designs and engineering compared to standard 12″ rough-in models.
This includes adjustments to the bowl shape, tank configuration, trapway design, and toilet base. These changes are necessary to make the toilet fit and function properly with the extended rough-in distance.
Just think of this as an extra feature for a higher price.
Reason #3: Installation can be complex
Installing a 14″ rough-in toilet is more complex than installing a standard 12″ rough-in toilet. And it usually requires professional help. The plumber will have to adjust for the 14-inch design, including the drain pipes, toilet tank, flushing system, and the flange.
Installing the 14-inch rough-in toilet takes time and specialized tools, making the cost higher than standard toilets.
Factors Influencing Toilet Prices
- Quality of materials
The type of materials used affects the price.
Higher-quality materials like porcelain or ceramic make the toilet more durable and attractive but also increase the cost. These better materials are less likely to get damaged easily and can withstand wear and tear, making them worth the extra price for many people.
- Design and features
Toilets can have different features like dual flush, bidets, or heated seats. These features might make the toilet more costly, but they also offer extra benefits and convenience to you as the user.
So, even though it comes with a higher price, these added features can provide more value and enhance your overall experience with the toilet.
- Brand
When you’re looking at toilets, you might notice that some brands are more expensive than others. The reason is that these brands are known for making high-quality and long-lasting toilets.
Their reputation for durability and performance often comes with a higher price tag.
Does the 14” Rough-in Toilet Comply With ADA Requirements?
14” rough-in toilets available today are ADA compliant.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) says you need to make sure that there is a 18 inches (minimum) of clearance between the toilet and wall behind it and the seat height is between 17-19 inches.
This regulation allows people in wheelchairs to use the toilet with comfort and safety. A 14″ rough-in toilet provides this clearance.
12” vs 14” Rough-in Toilets
If you’re trying to decide between 12″ and 14″ rough-in toilets, here are the main differences simplified for you:
| Comparison factors | 12” rough-in toilet | 14” rough-in toilet |
| Distance from wall to drain | 12 inches | 14 inches |
| Price | $250 | $500 or more |
| Availability | Readily available in stores and online | Limited availability |
| Use | Standard; used in most modern bathrooms | Less common; used in older homes or bathrooms |
| Installation | Easier to install, takes up less space | More difficult to install, takes up more space |
| Standard features | Elongated bowl, dual flush, quiet flush, WaterSense certified | Round bowl, single flush, quiet flush, WaterSense certified |
Conclusion
Many wonder, “why are 14-inch rough-in toilets more expensive?”. So, understanding what makes toilet prices change can help you figure it out. Once you know more of these factors, you’ll see why some types of toilets are pricier than others.
If you’re considering getting a 14″ rough-in toilet, check out different brands or models first. This way, you can ensure you get good value for your money.
Remember, the best way to choose the suitable toilet for your needs is to consider your budget, the features you want, and the space you have available.
I’m Paulk Webb, and I work as a writer for Saveourwaterrebates. I’m happy to put in the time and effort to conduct market research to identify the most pressing issues faced by households concerning their plumbing. Feel free to check out our guides to get the most informed recommendations for how to solve your problems.