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We take toilets for a given, but when it comes time to shop for one, where do you start?
There are so many numbers and industry terms to keep track of – it can be very overwhelming – especially for a beginner. Toiletable is here to set the record straight and to make the toilet shopping process as painless as possible.
One of the most common terms you’ll see is “rough-in”. This article will help you better understand what a rough-in is, how to measure it, as well as our top six 12 rough-in models currently available.
To measure your rough-in, measure from the water outlet, beneath the toilet, to the wall facing the back of the toilet.
Another way to think about this is to measure the toilet from the bare wall to the toilet drainpipe, or toilet flange. Always make sure to double-check the measurement so you don’t purchase the wrong toilet.
Our team of experts gathered facts and reviewed the top 12-inch rough-in toilets, which has a standard fit.
1. American Standard Cadet 3 FloWise – Editor’s Choice
Pros and Cons
Cadet 3 Flushing System
EPA WaterSense-certified
17-1/4″ seat height
PowerWas for an easy clean
Some users report issues upon delivery
Feature List - Model no. 2988.101
Flush Specs
› Flush System – Cadet 3 Flush System
› Water Consumption – 1.28 GPFGallons Per FlushEfficient toilets use 1.28 gallons per flush, saving 20% more water than 1.6 GPF toilets.
› Type – SingleFlush Type ExplainedA single flush is one press of the lever for a full flush. A dual flush allows the option for a partial or full flush.
› Flush Score – 1000 MaPWhat is MaP?Grams of waste removed in a single flush. Scale = 0 - 1000
Design & Style
› Style – Two-PieceStyle ExplainedTwo-piece toilets has a separate tank and bowl. One-piece toilet has a seamless design of the tank and bowl.
› Bowl Shape – Round FrontShape ExplainedElongated bowls are oval shaped and 2” inches wider than round bowls
› Bowl Glaze – EverClean
› Trapway Style – Concealed
Dimensions
› Toilet Measurements – 28-1/4″ x 15-3/4″ x 30-3/4″
› Rough-inWhat is a Rough-in?Measurement between center of waste pipe and wall – 12″
› Trapway SizeWhat is a Trapway?S-shaped curved channel inside the base of the toilet. Waste travels from the bowl through the trapway, then out the bottom of the toilet. –2-1/8″
› Seat HeightWhat is the Seat Height?The measurement from the floor to the top of the toilet seat. Standard height toilets measure between 15 - 17 inches, while chair height toilets measure 17 inches or more. –17-1/4″
“Just like the name suggests, the FloWise is a smartly designed toilet that prioritizes the user experience.”
American Standard has been one of the best in the business for a while - and the Cadet 3 is no different.
Flush Mechanisms
The toilet uses premier American Standard flushing technology which utilizes 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.
The Cadet 3 is a high-efficiency toilet that uses 1.28 gallons per flush, reducing your annual water usage by 20%, when compared to traditional 1.6 units. A chrome-plated lever is included.
Additionally, the toilet is equipped with the PowerWash rim that scrubs the bowl clean with every flush, with a round front siphon action jetted bowl.
Design & Style
This virtuous china unit has EverClean technology which is a glaze that inhibits the growth of stain and odor-causing bacteria, mold, and mildew, so you can spend less time cleaning. On that note, take a look at the skirted trapway - no nooks or crannies for annoying dirt to hide in. These factors substantially cut down your cleaning, as all you need to do is give this model a wipe-down every once in a while.
The toilet has a solid height of 17-1/4" making it easy on the knees and ankles when sitting and standing up.
The Cadet 3 comes with a top mounting, plastic Slow-Close seat and cover with an easy lift-off feature for simple removal and attachment for cleaning, and bowl. Two color-matched bolt-hole covers are included. There is a lifetime warranty on the chinaware, as well as a five-year warranty on all mechanical parts and a one-year warranty on the toilet seat.
This model only comes in white. The 2988.813 is the same unit except with a trip lever on righthand side. If you’re looking for a seat upgrade, consider the compatible 5024B.65G, a traditional round front luxury seat.
Color Options
White
Seat Options
5024B.65G Preferred Seat: Transitional Round Front Luxury Seat
With over 250 reviews and over 70% of reviews being four stars or more, the American Standard Cadet 3 is a real crowd pleaser. Users boast about how reliable the toilet is, from its flushing performance to its sturdy build.
Users report having the toilets for years without any diminishing capacity.
The most common problem is the state upon delivery. Due to a turbulent shipping process, some users report that their toilet came fractured or broken in the mail. However, they received a brand new product in the mail quickly thanks to Amazon customer service.
Some users find the .8 flush too weak to remove most waste loads
Feature List - Model no. WZ5079N
Flush Specs
› Flush System – Gravity Fed
› Water Consumption – 0.8 / 1.6 GPFGallons Per FlushEfficient toilets use 1.28 gallons per flush, saving 20% more water than 1.6 GPF toilets.
› Type – DualFlush Type ExplainedA single flush is one press of the lever for a full flush. A dual flush allows the option for a partial or full flush.
› Flush Score – 1000 MaPWhat is MaP?Grams of waste removed in a single flush. Scale = 0 - 1000
Design & Style
› Style – One-PieceStyle ExplainedTwo-piece toilets has a separate tank and bowl. One-piece toilet has a seamless design of the tank and bowl.
› Bowl Shape – Round FrontShape ExplainedElongated bowls are oval shaped and 2” inches wider than round bowls
› Bowl Glaze – N/A
› Trapway Style – Concealed
Dimensions
› Toilet Measurements – 23″ x 14-1/2″ x 28-3/4″
› Rough-inWhat is a Rough-in?Measurement between center of waste pipe and wall – 12″
› Trapway SizeWhat is a Trapway?S-shaped curved channel inside the base of the toilet. Waste travels from the bowl through the trapway, then out the bottom of the toilet. – 3.15″
› Seat HeightWhat is the Seat Height?The measurement from the floor to the top of the toilet seat. Standard height toilets measure between 15 - 17 inches, while chair height toilets measure 17 inches or more. – 16″
“Liven your small bathroom up with a unit that’s got you covered - like the WinZo WZ5079N.”
This WinZo’s strength will surprise you.
Flush Power
It’s not common to see such a small toilet with a dual-flush system. The Winzo WZ5079N toilet lets you choose between .8 and 1.6 GPF for your different waste loads. A push button lies on top of the lid.
The toilet bowl was designed with two nozzles flushing holes instead of transitional rim holes to create a powerful whirlpool to clean the entire bowl surface completely. The fully glazed trapway cuts down on clogs and quickly removes waste without a worry.
Design & Style
We love the angular structure of this toilet and think it would look perfect in a modern setting. But even if you’re interested in this toilet because of its compact build, its good looks are certainly a plus.
Like we’ve been saying all along, a skirted trapway looks great and cuts down on cleaning time - two birds, one stone!
The toilet’s dimensions are 23" x 14-1/2" x 28-3/4" inches. It has a seat height of 16” which is chair-height and comfortable for most users.
The toilet comes with a slam-preventing Soft Close seat which has a quick-release design for easy cleaning and installation.
Similarly to the Horow model, users boast about the WinZo’s small structure and easy adaptability to all bathroom aesthetics. Users find the toilet to be compact, sleek, strong in flush, and easy to clean.
The most common complaint is about the toilet’s .8 GPF flush option. Some reviewers find this option not to be effective for most waste loads - but then again, the 1.6 GPF option is always there for you.
› Water Consumption – 1.1 / 1.6 GPFGallons Per FlushEfficient toilets use 1.28 gallons per flush, saving 20% more water than 1.6 GPF toilets.
› Type – DualFlush Type ExplainedA single flush is one press of the lever for a full flush. A dual flush allows the option for a partial or full flush.
› Flush Score – 1000 MaPWhat is MaP?Grams of waste removed in a single flush. Scale = 0 - 1000
Design & Style
› Style – One-PieceStyle ExplainedTwo-piece toilets has a separate tank and bowl. One-piece toilet has a seamless design of the tank and bowl.
› Bowl Shape – ElongatedShape ExplainedElongated bowls are oval shaped and 2” inches wider than round bowls
› Bowl Glaze – N/A
› Trapway Style – Concealed
Dimensions
› Toilet Measurements – 27″ x 15-1/8″ x 31-3/16″
› Rough-inWhat is a Rough-in?Measurement between center of waste pipe and wall – 12″
› Seat HeightWhat is the Seat Height?The measurement from the floor to the top of the toilet seat. Standard height toilets measure between 15 - 17 inches, while chair height toilets measure 17 inches or more. –16-5/8″
“Every bathroom experience feels like a vacation thanks to the St. Tropez’s exquisite design.”
Though it’s a relatively smaller brand, Swiss Madison knows how to deliver high-quality products, like the St. Tropez.
Flush Ability
Dual-flush toilets save you money and water - what’s not to love? The St. Tropez is a dual-flush toilet, giving you the option between 1.1 and 1.6 GPF, depending on your waste level.
This toilet is equipped with the Swiss Madison signature Vortex Flush which utilizes ultra-powerful dual nozzles to leave your toilet bowl shining after each flush. The Vortex Flushing system removes waste nicely and easily, making it one less thing you need to worry about.
A dual-flush panel is included on the top of the lid.
Design & Style
It’s no secret the most interesting thing about the St. Tropez is its design. Take a look at the angular structure and completed hidden trapway. In addition to looking great, there is no space for dirt or grime to accumulate in. Cleaning has never been easier!
The St. Tropez stands at 16-5/8" and comes with an elongated bowl, though it’s not ADA-compliant.
Another perk is that the Quick-Release Soft-Close seat is included! This seat is easily-removable for simple deep cleaning and doesn’t slam when it’s put down!
The St. Tropez is available in white, matte black, matte white, and bisque. The toilet is floor-mounted.
The St. Tropez has hundreds of glowing reviews talking about the toilet’s unique design. Users love the angular structure of this model, and many users say it goes great with their modern aesthetic bathroom.
The most common complaint is about the installation process. Some users say they brought in professional help to make everything move faster. However, many note, that despite the upfront challenge, the toilet was worth the minimal struggle.
› Water Consumption – 1.28 GPFGallons Per FlushEfficient toilets use 1.28 gallons per flush, saving 20% more water than 1.6 GPF toilets.
› Type – SingleFlush Type ExplainedA single flush is one press of the lever for a full flush. A dual flush allows the option for a partial or full flush.
› Flush Score – 900 MaPWhat is MaP?Grams of waste removed in a single flush. Scale = 0 - 1000
Design & Style
› Style – Two-PieceStyle ExplainedTwo-piece toilets has a separate tank and bowl. One-piece toilet has a seamless design of the tank and bowl.
› Bowl Shape – ElongatedShape ExplainedElongated bowls are oval shaped and 2” inches wider than round bowls
› Bowl Glaze – N/A
› Trapway Style – Concealed
Dimensions
› Toilet Measurements –27-3/5″ x 15-1/5″ x 31-7/10″
› Rough-inWhat is a Rough-in?Measurement between center of waste pipe and wall – 12″
› Trapway SizeWhat is a Trapway?S-shaped curved channel inside the base of the toilet. Waste travels from the bowl through the trapway, then out the bottom of the toilet. –2″
› Seat HeightWhat is the Seat Height?The measurement from the floor to the top of the toilet seat. Standard height toilets measure between 15 - 17 inches, while chair height toilets measure 17 inches or more. –17-7/10″
“The MT-807 stands tall and proud like the true winner it is.”
This toilet will make you start wondering why the ELLAI brand isn’t more common.
Flush Ability
The WaterSense cerified MT-807 has a powerful 360 degree flush that reaches every spot of the toilet for maximum cleanliness using 1.28 GPF; this unit saves you 20 percent on your annual water usage, as compared with classic 1.6 GPF models.
The flushing mechanism has a 3” flush valve and a 2” fully glazed trapway to eliminate any chance of clogging. The PowerWash rim finishes the job by scrubbing the bowl after each flush.
A chrome lever is placed on the lefthand approach side.
Design & Style
The toilet is ADA-compliant, with a 16-3/4” height and an elongated bowl. This chair-height toilet is perfect for the elderly and individuals who require additional support.
The MT-807’s ceramic glaze prevents waste from sticking to the toilet’s inside and outside, keeping scrubbing to a minimum.
The toilet comes with a bowl, tank, seat, wax ring, and floor hardware. The toilet is lighter than most traditional units, with a weight of 77 pounds. A 12” rough-in is needed for installation.
Color Options
White
Model Variations
Our Opinion
It’s clear we’re not the only ones that love this ELLAI great. Users love how easy the toilet is to clean and how comfortable it is to sit on.
Many reviews post photos of their toilets, showing how well their units look amidst their different bathroom aesthetics. THe most common complaint is similar to the Cadet 3’s, aka state upon delivery.
Once again, this problem is more of an indication of the shipping process rather than the product itself and is quickly resolved with one customer service call.
› Water Consumption – 1.28 GPFGallons Per FlushEfficient toilets use 1.28 gallons per flush, saving 20% more water than 1.6 GPF toilets.
› Type – SingleFlush Type ExplainedA single flush is one press of the lever for a full flush. A dual flush allows the option for a partial or full flush.
› Flush Score – 1000 MaPWhat is MaP?Grams of waste removed in a single flush. Scale = 0 - 1000
Design & Style
› Style – Two-PieceStyle ExplainedTwo-piece toilets has a separate tank and bowl. One-piece toilet has a seamless design of the tank and bowl.
› Bowl Shape – ElongatedShape ExplainedElongated bowls are oval shaped and 2” inches wider than round bowls
› Bowl Glaze – EverClean
› Trapway Style – Exposed
Dimensions
› Toilet Measurements –30-1/4″ x 19″ x 30-7/8″
› Rough-inWhat is a Rough-in?Measurement between center of waste pipe and wall – 12″
› Trapway SizeWhat is a Trapway?S-shaped curved channel inside the base of the toilet. Waste travels from the bowl through the trapway, then out the bottom of the toilet. –2-3/8″
› Seat HeightWhat is the Seat Height?The measurement from the floor to the top of the toilet seat. Standard height toilets measure between 15 - 17 inches, while chair height toilets measure 17 inches or more. –17-1/4″
“We’ve reviewed hundreds of toilets and always pay close attention to the flushing strength. The Champion Pro blew us away with its power.”
Another American Standard great, this toilet delivers above-average performance on all fronts.
Flush Power
This High-Efficiency toilet features the industry’s largest trapway, utilizing a 4-inch piston action accelerator flush valve to eliminate 70% more mass than standard toilets in the blink of an eye.
American Standard demonstrated this power in an astonishing video in which they did a flush test with golf balls.
The toilet is equipped with a robust metal trip lever, positioned on the left-hand approach side, as well as a metal shank fill valve.
Additionally, the toilet’s PowerWash rim scrubs the bowl with each flush, cutting down on your cleaning time.
The toilet has the highest MaP score of 1,000 grams and utilizes about one gallon per flush.
A chrome finish trip lever is supplied and positioned on the left-hand approach side. You can also get the lever on the right side with the 4225A 105 model.
Design & Style
This ADA-compliant toilet has a rim height of 16.5” and comes with an elongated bowl. Though we love the tall height, such models aren’t for everyone. If you know small children will frequent your bathroom, a toilet this high may not be the best option for them.
The Champion Pro comes with EZ-Install tools with color-match bowl caps, so you don’t have to call in professional help to finish the job. The toilet also comes with a ten-year warranty.
The 211AA 154 features the same toilet but with a lined tank. The 4225A 164 is a tank complete set up with a tank cover locking device while the 4225A 174 is a tank complete set up with Aquaguard Liner and tank cover locking device.
The toilet is available in white, bone, and linen. A seat and supply line must be purchased separately.
Most users find the Champion Pro traditionally beautiful and reliable. Many reviews mention the toilet’s sleek, glossy structure, and simple installation process.
Some reviews talk also praise the toilet for its ADA compliance and extra comfortable seating design. The most common complaint is about the low water usage’s effect on rim cleaning.
Because the model uses less water than the traditional unit, you may find yourself cleaning the bowl slightly more than with regular units.
› Water Consumption – 1.1/1.6GPFGallons Per FlushEfficient toilets use 1.28 gallons per flush, saving 20% more water than 1.6 GPF toilets.
› Type – DualFlush Type ExplainedA single flush is one press of the lever for a full flush. A dual flush allows the option for a partial or full flush.
› Flush Score – 900 MaPWhat is MaP?Grams of waste removed in a single flush. Scale = 0 - 1000
Design & Style
› Style – One-PieceStyle ExplainedTwo-piece toilets has a separate tank and bowl. One-piece toilet has a seamless design of the tank and bowl.
› Bowl Shape – ElongatedShape ExplainedElongated bowls are oval shaped and 2” inches wider than round bowls
› Bowl Glaze – N/A
› Trapway Style – Concealed
Dimensions
› Toilet Measurements –25” x 13-3/8″ x 28-3/8″
› Rough-inWhat is a Rough-in?Measurement between center of waste pipe and wall – 12″
› Trapway SizeWhat is a Trapway?S-shaped curved channel inside the base of the toilet. Waste travels from the bowl through the trapway, then out the bottom of the toilet. – 2-1/8″
› Seat HeightWhat is the Seat Height?The measurement from the floor to the top of the toilet seat. Standard height toilets measure between 15 - 17 inches, while chair height toilets measure 17 inches or more. – 16-1/2″
“This Horow unit doesn’t sacrifice strength in its small size, making it the perfect fit for even the most compact spaces.”
Small but mighty is this unit’s motto.
Flushing System
This unit has a super quiet and power flushing system with a siphonic jet setup. The HWMT-8733 is WaterSense certified and dual-flush, with 1.1/1/6 GPF. It has a MaP score of 900 grams.
Leaks and clogs are kept to a minimum thanks to the sophisticated flush valve mechanism.
Design & Style
This toilet has a height of 16-1/2" and is specifically designed for small spaces. Its dimensions are 25” x 13-3/8" x 28-3/8".
In addition to being compact, this toilet is also easy to clean because of its fully concealed trapway. Just take some warm water and soap and give the trapway a nice wipe-down every once in a while!
The toilet comes with a Quick Release seat that’s easy to install and easy to remove for deep cleaning as well.
The toilet also comes with a pre-installed flush valve, high-quality wax ring, floor bolts, and also installation instructions. With these materials, installation has never been easier!
Right off the bat this toilet is a hit due to its adaptable, small size. Users praise the toilet for maintaining a powerful flush despite its small stature.
Review also comment on the toilet’s chair-like height and affordable price.
The most common complaints are about the thing that makes this toilet great. Because this is a toilet intended for small spaces, the seat is narrowly constructed - though a plus for some, larger users may find this uncomfortable.
We listed the major decisions to make when choosing the perfect 12-inch rough in that will fit your needs.
✓ Different Rough-In Types
Different rough-in types align with different space sizes. Smaller, more compact spaces will need a smaller rough-in size, such as 10” rough-ins, while larger spaces will use bigger rough-ins, like 14” rough-ins. However, the most common rough-in on the market is 12”.
✓ Flushing Strength
No one wants waste sticking around. Looking into different brands’ flushing mechanisms and researching MaP scores will help you better understand various flushing strengths. Good suction strength goes a long way and can prevent clogs down the road.
✓ Water Usage
The maximum water usage per flush as per EPA guidelines is 1.6 GPF. Eco-friendly models typically use 1.28 GPF, saving you 20 percent in water usage in comparison. Some dual-flush models will have an even lower option, by using .8 to 1 GPF. Though it may be surprising, 1.28 GPF tend to be as effective as their 1.6 GPF counterparts, so they’re a good eco-friendly and economic alternative.
✓ Exterior Design
Do you want a one-piece or two-piece toilet? Are you looking for a skirted or exposed trapway? What bathroom aesthetic are you going for - traditional or modern? There are tons of questions to ask yourself before you start toilet shopping. While you may be on a budget, there are still many style options you can choose from.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 12-inch rough in standard for a toilet?
Yes, 12” rough-ins are the industry standard for toilets.
Can you replace a 12-inch rough in toilet with a 10-inch rough in toilet?
Yes, you can potentially replace a 12” rough-in toilet with a 10” rough-toilet, though you will probably need a longer supply line. It is not possible to put in a 12” rough-in toilet in a 10” rough-in toilet’s spot.
How do I know if I need a 10 or 12 rough in toilet?
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.
What is the one-piece toilet better than a two piece toilet?
One-piece toilets are easier to clean, less likely to break in transit, and require no drill holes to support their water tank.
Our Final Opinion
We hope the experts at Toiletable have helped you better understand what a rough-in is as well as why we love these six 12" rough-in toilets. Rough-in size is important so you know for sure in buying a toilet that it will fit in your desired space. Always make sure to double-check measurements and jot down any important details to make your shopping process a bit easier.
