What’s a toilet rough-in and why does it matter? The experts at Toiletable are here to answer any and all of your toilet-related questions.
A toilet rough-in is the distance between the wall behind the toilet and the center of the drainpipe. While a standard rough-in is 12 inches, smaller bathrooms are often set up with a 10-inch rough-in to maximize space.
A smaller rough-in positions your toilet closer to the wall, allowing extra legroom in the front.
Page Contents
Favorite Picks
TOTO CST744SF Drake | |
Strongest Flush | Kohler Highline |
Quietest Flush | TOTO Eco Drake |
Best Design | Kohler K-3889 Highline |
Best Height | American Standard Cadet 3 |
Best for Children | American Standard Baby Devoro |
Most Budget Friendly | American Standard Edgemere |
Rough-In Explained
The size of the rough-in for a toilet is quite important. Your plumber can only install toilets based on the existing rough-in for the main drain pipe.
And, once your rough-in is set, it’s very really difficult to change.
Therefore, plan accordingly when designing and new bathroom space to ensure you build everything as you’d like.
Toilets most frequently come with a 14”, 12”, or 10” rough-in.
The rough-in must be measured properly and precisely! If it is not, you may lack free space to install the toilet correctly.
Be sure to know your bathroom’s rough-in and pick a toilet that matches to avoid any installation issues.
10-Inch Rough-in Considerations
If you are thinking about whether you should get a 10-inch rough-in or not, there are a few details to consider:
Gaining Space
To start, going with a 10-inch rough-in allows you to gain only a few inches of free space.
If these extra few inches will increase the usability of your bathroom, like allowing you to open a cabinet or shower door fully, then the 10-inch rough-in can make a big difference.
If the extra inches won’t significantly change how you use the bathroom however, it may not be worth the investment.
Existing Rough-In
Another consideration is whether your bathroom already includes a 10-inch rough-in.
Converting your existing rough-in to a 10-inch option is a complex process that can be very expensive.
However, if your bathroom already has a 10-inch rough-in, you can make the most of it to maximize your bathroom space.
Toilet Models Available
Compared to the more common 12-inch rough-in options, there are fewer buying choices for 10-inch rough-in toilets, so make sure you’ll be able to find a toilet that fits your needs if you’re going with a 10-inch rough-in.
However, just because your bathroom space is limited, doesn’t mean you have to compromise on efficiency or looks.
Space-Saving 10-Inch Rough-In Toilets Compared
Best 10-Inch Rough-In Toilets – 7 Reviewed & Rated
Our team of experts compared and reviewed the top 10-inch rough-in toilets available on the market.
1.TOTO CST744SF Drake Toilet – Editor’s Top Choice
Pros and Cons
- Powerful G-Max flushing system
- ADA-compliant
- Simple design
- Seat not included
Flush Specs
- › Flush System –
- › Water Consumption – 1.6
- › Type –
- › Flush Score –
Design & Style
- › Style –
- › Bowl Shape –
- › Bowl Glaze – N/A
- › Trapway Style – Exposed
Dimensions
- › Toilet Measurements – 28-1/8″ x 19-7/8″ x 30-1/8″
- – 10″
- – 2-1/8″
- – 17-1/4″
- › Rim Height – 16-1/8″
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“As always, we have to start out with our favorite. The TOTO Drake CST744SF is one of the best models on the market thanks to its affordable price, compact rough-in, and simple look.”
TOTO is widely known for its high-quality 10-inch rough-in toilets. This two-piece sleek option is various built-in features, along with a smooth look that helps streamline the cleaning process.
Flushing Power
The TOTO G-Max flushing system uses an extra-large siphon jet for maximum suction power and a wide 3” flush valve to pack a punch in every flush. The toilet’s fully glazed trapway also reduces the chance of clogging.
The CST744SF uses the industry standard. 1.6 gallons per flush and has the highest MaP score possible of 1,000 grams. The toilet comes with a chrome trip lever that is easy to use.
Design & Style
We love the look of the TOTO Drake because it’s undemanding and simple. Sometimes you want the rest of your bathroom aesthetic to do the talking for you. The CST744SF would fit in any bathroom theme while getting the job done.
The most comfortable aspect of the CST744SF is the toilet’s height. Standing at 17-1/4 inches, the toilet feels like a standard chair. Higher toilets are easier to sit down and stand up from. The elongated bowl further elevates the user experience by dispersing body weight.
The best part? The CST744SF is ADA-compliant when installed with the trip lever on the approach side.
The toilet comes with a bowl, tank, and cover. The tank and cover can either come with a standard left or right-hand trip lever or come as a bolt-down lid with a right-hand trip lever. A seat is not included. However, this TOTO model is compatible with most TOTO seats, such as the SoftClose model.
This Drake model only comes in cotton. You’ll notice that the models may seem similar at first, but look a bit closer and you’ll realize the variety in water usage per gallon, lever placement, and rough-in size.
Seat Options
- SS114 SoftClose seat
- SC134 seat
- SC534 seat
Product Documentation
Model Variations
Review Comments
“This is a high quality toilet. Feels good and operates smoothly. This is a perfect option if your flange is 9 or 10 inches from the wall.” - Amazon Customer
“I purchased the TOTO mostly because of good ratings for flushing reliability, and it hasn't disappointed during the first month of use. I followed the rest of the instructions carefully, and everything worked properly the first time, with no leaks.” - Vicw, Amazon Reviewer
“This toilet is fantastic the way it handles solids as well as liquids. It fills very fast. Ours fills in less than 20 seconds and shuts off.” - Craig, Amazon Reviewer
Review Highlights
With over 70% of its reviews being five stars, the TOTO isn’t just our favorite - it’s a true crowd-pleaser. Users boast about the toilet’s compact size and high-quality build.
Positive comments also note the toilet’s affordable price and reliable performance. The most common complaint is that the toilet doesn’t come with a seat.
However, with a toilet this affordable, springing for a seat doesn’t seem like too big of a hassle.
2. Kohler Highline Toilet - Strongest Flush
Pros and Cons
- 1.28 GPF and Class Five flushing technology
- Comfort Height toilet with elongated bowl
- Simple three-bolt quick connect installation
- It is ADA compliant
- Supply line and wax ring not included
- Issues with shipping
Flush Specs
- › Flush System –
- › Water Consumption – 1.28
- › Type –
- › Flush Score –
Design & Style
- › Style –
- › Bowl Shape –
- › Bowl Glaze – N/A
- › Trapway Style – Exposed
Dimensions
- › Toilet Measurements – 29-1/2″ x 18-1/8″ x 31-1/4″
- – 10″
- – 2-1/8″
- – 17-1/4″
- › Rim height – 16-1/2″
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“We at Toiletable have been fans of the Kohler Highline since it came out. The toilet is durable, comfortable, and has a suction strength that will you leave you mesmerized.“
Kohler is one of the best-known names on the market and for a good reason.
Flush Ability
At 1.28 gallons per flush, the Highline saves you about 20 percent on your annual water bill, when compared to traditional 1.6 GPF models.
This Highline toilet uses Kohler’s Class Five flushing technology to reduce the likelihood of clogs. The single-flush gravity system utilizes gravitational force for an extra-strong flushing siphon. Kohler optimizes siphon strength through its specially engineered tank, bowl, and trapway.
The Class Five technology’s suction strength is unbeatable - it’s one of our favorite features in Kohler toilets. Waste load gets removed in a matter of seconds with an instant water refill rate. The toilet has the highest MaP score of 1,000 grams.
Design & Style
The extra-comfortable elongated bowl helps disperse user body weight , elevating user experience. The Highline is a Comfort Height toilet, with a seat height of 17-1/4". The toilet comes with a tank, tank cover, bowl, trip lever, and bolt cap accessory pack. Unfortunately, a supply line and wax ring are not included but are needed for installation.
In addition to being comfortable, the Highline is stylish. The unit has a fresh, angular look that would go great in contemporary bathrooms. Add a personal touch by choosing one of the three colors - white, biscuit, and black black.
We also love the Highline because we find it to be one of the easier models to install. This toilet uses a three-bolt-quick-connect installation, so you won’t need professional help! Simply install the floor-mount/floor outlet toilet according to Kohler’s beginner-friendly instructions.
Seat Options
- K-5588 Purefresh
- K-4108 C³-230 bidet
Product Documentation
Model Variations
Review Highlights
Users boast about the Highline’s clog-free flushing performance, noting the toilet’s reliable suction strength.
Users also like the toilet’s sleek, angular look.
The most common complaint is about the toilet’s state upon delivery. Some users report difficulties upon their toilet’s arrival, stating the toilet came broken. They had to call Kohler support for a new unit.
3. American Standard Edgemere - Budget Friendly
Pros and Cons
- Affordable price
- 1.28 gallons per flush
- Comfortable, ADA-compliant height
- Heavy weight makes installation difficult
Flush Specs
- › Flush System –
- › Water Consumption – 1.28
- › Type –
- › Flush Score –
Design & Style
- › Style –
- › Bowl Shape –
- › Bowl Glaze – EverClean
- › Trapway Style – Exposed
Dimensions
- › Toilet Measurements – 28.81″ x 15-1/4″ x 18.5″
- – 12″
- – 2″
- – 17-1/4″
“Sometimes simple is the best way to go. The Edgemere is a prime example of when something works, you don’t need to change it.”
We had to include American Standard on our list as we love their high-quality, long lasting products.
Flushing Performance
The toilet’s powerful flushing mechanism only uses 1.28 gallons of water per flush.
The Edgemere toilet is EPA WaterSense certified, saving you up to 20% more water a year.
The PowerWash rim scrubs away all the waste from the toilet bowl every time you activate the flush; no more annoying streaks of stains. Additionally, the 2” fully-glazed trapway helps prevent clogs.
The Edgemere has the highest MaP score possible of 1,000 grams!
Design & Style
One of the Edgemere’s best features is its ADA compliance. This two-piece toilet has a seat height of 17-1/4” and comes with an elongated bowl. That means you can sit and stand up without straining your body! ADA toilets are perfect for taller individuals and those with disabilities.
The Edgemere comes with American Standard’s premier EverClean technology. This glaze minimizes the growth of odor-causing bacteria, mold, mildew, and stains on the surface of the toilet.
The Edgemere toilet coordinates with all the products of the Edgemere Collection by American Standard. It is available in white color and we found it to be easy to install. A seat is included so you don’t have to worry about any additional purchases to make your toilet complete.
There is a five-year warranty for all ceramic pieces and mechanical parts.
Read the full review of the American Standard Edgemere.
Seat Options
- American Standard #5257A65 elongated seat with cover
Product Documentation
Model Variations
Review Highlights
Users love the toilet’s simple design and features.
Many positive reviews note the efficacy of the EverClean technology, noting they no longer have to scrub their toilet heavily to remove stains.
The most common complaint is about the toilet’s weight, which makes the installation process a bit more difficult.
4. American Standard Cadet 3 - Best Height
Pros and Cons
- Affordable price
- 1.28 gallons per flush
- Heavy weight makes installation difficult
- Not ADA-compliant
- Seat sold separately
Flush Specs
- › Flush System –Cadet Flushing System
- › Water Consumption – 1.28
- › Type –
- › Flush Score –
Design & Style
- › Style –
- › Bowl Shape –
- › Bowl Glaze – EverClean
- › Trapway Style – Exposed
Dimensions
- › Toilet Measurements – 26-1/4″ x 17-1/4″ x 29-1/8″
- – 10″
- – 15-3/4″
- › Rim Height – 15″
“Easy to install, easy to use, and easy to maintain. The American Cadet 3 was a no-brainer for this list.”
Another American standard great, the Cadet 3 will impress you with its suction power.
Flushing Power
This toilet uses 1.28 gallons per flush, meaning you can save up to 20% on your annual water bill, as compared to traditional 1.6 GPF models.
The toilet uses premier American Standard flushing technology which consists of a chemical and distort-resistant 3-inch flush valve for accelerated water volume flow per flush. It’s almost 80% faster than regular 2-inch valves. The fully glazed 2 1/8-inch trapway prevents clogs as well. The toilet has the highest MaP score available of 1,000 grams.
Design & Style
This toilet is not ADA-compliant. Standing at 15-3/4", the toilet is comfortable for all users; its elongated bowl further elevates user experience by dispersing body weight.
The toilet bowl surface is made of vitreous china which is glazed with silver-ion additives to create an antibacterial EverClean surface that guards against stain growth and mildew. Long gone are the days of endless scrubbing! All you need is to clean the toilet with some warm water and mild soap every now and again and you’re all set.
The toilet is available in three finishes, white, linen, or bone. You can also choose which side you want the lever to be on. The Cadet 3 also comes with the option for a round bowl or an elongated bowl; only elongated bowls are ADA-compliant. Additionally, the toilet’s slow-close lid and seat cover have a convenient lift-off feature for easy cleaning.
The toilet comes with a five-year warranty.
Seat Options
- American Standard #5320.110 EverClean® Seat with Slow Close
Product Documentation
Other Model Variations
Review Highlights
The most common praise about the American Cadet 3 is the toilet’s suction strength. Reviewers love how fast waste loads are removed and are impressed with the toilet’s refill rate.
The most common complaint is the toilet’s heavy weight, which can make installation a little bit tricky if you don’t have extra help.
6. TOTO CST744EF Eco Drake - Quietest Flush
Pros and Cons
- 1.28 GPF and E-Max flushing technology
- ADA compliant
- Seat, supply line, and wax ring not included
Flush Specs
- › Flush System –
- › Water Consumption – 1.28
- › Type –
- › Flush Score –
Design & Style
- › Style –
- › Bowl Shape –
- › Bowl Glaze – N/A
- › Trapway Style – Exposed
Dimensions
- › Toilet Measurements – 28-1/8″ x 19-7/8″ x 30-1/8″
- – 10″
- – 2-1/8″
- – 17-1/4″
- › Rim Height – 16-1/8″
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“Glossy on the outside, powerful on the inside. The TOTO Eco Drake is one of prime examples of a 10” rough-in unit.”
This two-piece toilet has a high-profile tank and fits like a glove in smaller bathrooms.
Flushing
The TOTO CST Elongated Bowl has low water consumption at just 1.28 gallons of water per flush. The toilet’s E-max flushing system has an extra-large siphon jet that activates a consistent and ultra-powerful flush.
The toilet has the highest MaP score possible of 1,000 grams. Even with its awesome suction strength, you’ll notice that the toilet makes minimal noise.
Design & Style
This toilet has a universal height of 17-1/4” with an elongated bowl for maximum comfort, making it an ideal fit for many different bathrooms. It is ADA-compliant if it’s installed with the trip lever on the approach side.
The toilet comes with a chrome trip lever that can be either left or right-handed. Unfortunately, the one downside to this toilet is that the toilet seat is not included. The toilet is compatible with the TOTO SoftClose seat as well as standard commercial seats, such as the SC134 and SC534.
The toilet only comes in cotton.
Seat Options
- SS114 SoftClose seat
- SC134 seat
- SC534 seat
Product Documentation
Other Model Variations
Review Highlights
Some reviewers are repeat buyers for their additional bathrooms, which speaks volumes for the quality of this toilet.
Positive reviews note that although water usage is low it doesn’t impact the flushing power.
The most common complaint is about the lack of a toilet seat.
7. American Standard Baby Devoro - Best for Children
Pros and Cons
- Short height is ideal for children
- 1.28 GPF
- Easy installation
- Short height makes toilet uncomfortable for adults
Flush Specs
- › Flush System – Siphon jet action
- › Water Consumption – 1.28 – 1.6
- › Type –
- › Flush Score –
Design & Style
- › Style –
- › Bowl Shape –
- › Bowl Glaze – N/A
- › Trapway Style – Exposed
Dimensions
- › Toilet Measurements – 25-5/8″ x 13-11/16″ x 11-1/8″
- – 10″
- – 2-1/8″
- – 11″
- › Rim Height – 10-1/4″
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“The Baby Devoro is meant to make children’s lives a bit easier. When a toilet is too high, the bathroom experience can be tough for the little ones. The Baby Devoro keeps that in mind so no one gets left behind.”
Unlike any other toilet on the list, this American Standard toilet was made especially for children. Therefore, this is a perfect choice for healthcare and education facilities
Flushing Power
With a glazed trapway and strong flow rate, the Baby Devoro toilet is a high-efficiency, low-consumption toilet that delivers with every flush. The toilet uses only 1.28 - 1.6 gallons per flush and MaP score of 800 grams. Some Baby Devoro units also use 1.6 GPF, depending on the model.
The toilet’s siphon jet action flushing system takes away waste in a matter of seconds. The toilet has a floor-mounted flushometer valve and a fully glazed trapway which eliminates chances of clogging.
Smart Design
The Baby Devoro is made out of vitreous china and is extremely durable and tough, designed to withstand use by children in particular. Because of this, the toilet stands at 11 ⅛ inches, making it way shorter than standard models. While this may not be ideal for home settings, the Baby Devoro is an excellent choice for schools, hospitals, and daycares.
Furthermore, thanks to the bowl coupling system and the Speed Connect tank, installation for this toilet is very simple.
The toilet comes only in white.
Seat Options
- #5001G.055 Baby Devoro Seat with EverClean
- Church #1580C open front seat
Product Documentation
Review Highlights
Positive reviews boast about this child-friendly unit for its efficiency and comfortable height.
Reviewers noted how easy the toilet is to operate for children and how affordable it is.
Negative reviews focused on the toilets inaccessibility to taller users.
Buyers Guide for the Perfect 10-inch Rough-in Toilet
After you’ve decided whether a 10-inch rough-in toilet is right for you, there are other features to consider to select the specific best option.
Type of Toilet
There are two main types of toilets: one-piece and two-piece designs, which depend on whether the bowl and tank are fused together.
Typically, one-piece toilets are smaller than their two-piece counterparts, and they’re generally easier to maintain as they don’t have hidden places between parts.
On the other hand, two-piece models come with the bowl separate from the tank. Their biggest advantage is that they are much cheaper than their counterparts, and can be easier to install. However, you may experience shipping problems with two-piece models.
Water Consumption
Not a lot of people realize that their toilets can have a huge impact on their water bills every year. Now, different kinds of toilets offer different flushing capacities. According to the EPA, your toilet should not use more than 1.6 gallons of water per flush.
Most water-saving toilets stick to this standard. Still, certain more effective models have a rating of 1.28 gallons per flush, which can come with added benefits like EPA WaterSense certification. Read more about toilet water conservation here.
Confort Height Selection
Most manufacturers often use terms such as comfort height, right height, and universal height. These different options can sometimes be very confusing to some people.
Basically, these different terms refer to how far the toilet is from the ground.
For example, the standard height for most toilets is around 16 inches. It’s important to also note that adding a toilet seat can add additional inches to your toilet.
Exact Rough-in Measurements
As mentioned above, if your rough-in doesn’t match the rough-in in your bathroom, you’ll have major complications when installing a toilet.
If you’re even one inch off between both, you may not be able to install the toilet at all. Be sure to select a toilet that matches your bathroom’s rough-in, whether that be a 10-inch rough-in or another size. How to measure a rough in toilet.
Type of Flushing System
Flush technology is another factor to consider when buying a toilet, as it determines the overall efficiency and flushing power. In general, more powerful systems will keep your bowl cleaner and are less likely to clog even with one flush.
Looking for a more powerful flushing system will help you save water and better maintain a clean toilet bowl surface.
Water Restrictions Standards
Don’t forget to check for any water restriction standards in your state before purchasing a toilet as well. For example, some states such as Texas and California don’t allow toilets that use more than 1.28 gallons per flush.
Most other states are fine with 1.6 gallons per flush, however, you should always confirm before making your final toilet choice.
Bowl Type
Another essential detail to consider is the type of bowl – you’ll typically be able to select either a round or elongated bowl. Round-shaped bowls are better for those who want to save space. Elongated bowls, on the other hand, take up more space, but provide more room for your legs, making them more comfortable.
Regardless of which option best fits your needs, you’ll also want to see if the toilet comes with an anti-microbial finish or other additional helpful features.
Warranty and Certifications
One last factor to keep in mind is the type of warranty. Warranty is the best way for a company to ensure the quality of their toilets. The standard warranty for many toilets is about 1 – 3 years.
However, if you’re very worried about potential issues with the toilet, you can look for an extended warranty option, with warranties lasting up to 5 years or even longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Long story short, while it can be an effective option, a 10-inch rough-in might not always be the best.
Specifically, you should consider getting this kind of toilet only if saving a few inches will get you the space you need, particularly if your bathroom is already set up with a 10-inch rough-in. There are other options available as well that can save even more space, such as a corner or a wall-hung toilet.
There aren’t many significant differences between the 12-inch and 10-inch rough-ins. In general, 10-inch rough-ins are more likely to be found in older houses. On the other hand, the 12-inch models are typical for modern bathrooms. Overall, 12-inch rough-ins are more common, so you may have more trouble finding a 10-inch toilet option if you do have a 10-inch rough-in.
Unfortunately, if you have a toilet with a bigger rough-in size you can’t install a 10-inch rough-in. You are going to have to measure the size of your rough-in and find a toilet that size because otherwise, the parts won’t connect.
Yes, the best 10-inch rough-in toilets on the market are: the TOTO CST744SF Drake, Kohler Highline, TOTO Eco Drake, Kohler K-3889 Highline, American Standard Cadet 3, American Standard Baby Devoro, and American Standard Edgemere.
It is not possible to put in a 12” rough-in toilet in a 10” rough-in toilet’s spot.
To measure a rough-in, find where your toilet is bolted into the ground and measure from the wall to the center of the toilet’s base bolts.
The Kohler Highline has the strongest flush. The toilet uses Kohler’s classic Class Five Flush with only 1.28 gallons per flush. Waste is removed without hassle, as the toilet’s MaP score is 1,000 grams.
Bottom Line
With all the various features this model has to offer, these toilets make great choices for everybody. They are designed sturdy and durable, meaning you don’t have to sacrifice high-quality design for compact space.
Toiletable is here to assist you in every aspect of toilet buying.