Wall-Hung Toilets

Key Takeaway

Mounted to the wall with a concealed in-wall tank carrier. Creates a clean, modern look and makes floor cleaning easier.

Overview

Wall-hung toilets mount to a steel carrier frame inside the wall with the bowl suspended above the floor. The tank is concealed inside the wall with only the flush plate visible on the wall surface. The result: a floating toilet with clear floor space underneath for easy cleaning and a dramatically modern appearance. Common in European bathrooms and high-end American commercial and residential projects. The most expensive toilet type to install (requires in-wall framing and concealed tank), but the cleanest aesthetic.

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Modern aesthetic
  • Easy floor cleaning
  • Adjustable height
  • Space saving
Cons
  • Expensive installation
  • Requires in-wall carrier
  • Harder to service tank

Key Features

  • Bowl mounts to an in-wall steel carrier frame -- suspended above the floor
  • Concealed tank inside the wall with only a flush plate visible
  • Clear floor space under the bowl for easy mopping and cleaning
  • Adjustable mounting height (typically set at comfort height, 15-19 inches)
  • Requires 2x6 or thicker wall framing to accommodate the carrier and concealed tank

Sizing & Selection

Bowl is standard elongated or round. The carrier frame fits inside a 2x6 wall (minimum). The concealed tank and frame are approximately 6-8 inches deep, 15-20 inches wide, and 40-50 inches tall. Must be installed in a wall with access to the drain stack. Height is adjustable during installation -- set to your preferred seat height.

Installation

Professional installation required. The steel carrier frame is anchored to the floor and wall studs during rough-in (before drywall). The concealed tank mounts inside the frame. Drain connects through the carrier to the stack. After drywall and tile, the bowl bolts to the frame through the finished wall. The flush plate installs as the final step. This is new construction or major remodel work -- not a retrofit.

Maintenance

  • The concealed tank is accessible through the flush plate opening for valve and fill mechanism maintenance.
  • Bowl cleaning is easier than floor-mount -- mop directly under and around it.
  • The carrier frame and mounting bolts are steel -- inspect every few years for rust if in a humid bathroom.
  • If the concealed tank leaks, you need to access it through the flush plate or an access panel behind the wall.

Buying Tips

  • Geberit is the market leader for in-wall carrier systems and concealed tanks. Duravit and TOTO make compatible bowls.
  • Buy the carrier, tank, flush plate, and bowl as a matched system. Mixing brands can cause compatibility issues.
  • Budget -3000+ total (carrier, tank, bowl, flush plate, and installation labor).
  • The flush plate is the visible design element -- available in chrome, brushed nickel, matte black, glass, and custom finishes. -300.
  • Plan for an access panel if the bathroom shares a wall with another room. Maintenance access through the flush plate opening is limited.