Shopping for a new toilet sounds simple, until you’re standing in the aisle looking at dozens of models that all look about the same.
Round bowl or elongated?
Standard height or comfort height?
Slow-close seat?
Concealed trap?
Which brands actually last?
At Lohmeyer Plumbing, we’ve installed hundreds of toilets over the years, and we’ve learned that choosing the right toilet isn’t just about how it looks. It’s about how well it performs today and whether it can still be repaired 10 or 20 years from now.
Here’s what we’ve learned.
We Recommend Toilets That Can Be Repaired
One of the biggest things we look for is whether a manufacturer continues to support its products.
While there are plenty of inexpensive toilets on the market, some use proprietary parts or parts that become difficult, or even impossible to find after only a few years. The last thing we want is to install a brand-new toilet only to tell you three years later that the entire toilet needs replaced because a simple repair part is no longer available.
That’s why we stick with manufacturers that have a long history of producing quality products and readily available repair parts. When a fill valve or another internal component eventually wears out, we’d much rather replace a small part than replace the entire toilet.
Performance Matters
Today’s toilets use much less water than older models, but not every water-saving toilet performs the same.
We’ve installed models that simply don’t flush as well as others, leading to repeat flushing or more frequent clogs. Saving water is important, but so is having a toilet that works the first time.
Our goal is to recommend toilets that provide dependable flushing performance while still being water efficient.
Our Top Recommendation: American Standard Cadet Pro
If someone asks us what toilet we recommend most often, our answer is usually the American Standard Cadet Pro.
We’ve been installing this line for decades because it consistently performs well, replacement parts are easy to get, and our customers simply don’t have many issues with them.
The Cadet Pro line also offers several bowl shapes, heights, seat options, and styles, so you don’t have to sacrifice comfort or appearance to get a dependable toilet.
We like the Cadet Pro so much that we’ve installed them throughout our own office and showroom. Our team has definitely put them to the test, so you could say they’ve been thoroughly field tested by the experts.
Round Bowl or Elongated Bowl?
This is one of the first decisions you’ll make, and many homeowners aren’t sure what the difference is.
An elongated bowl has more of an egg shape, extending a couple of inches farther toward the front. Most people find elongated toilets more comfortable, and they’ve become the most popular choice for primary bathrooms.
A round bowl is shaped more like a basketball, making it shorter from front to back. They’re a great choice for smaller bathrooms or powder rooms where every inch of space matters.
Both perform well. The decision usually comes down to comfort and available space.
| Bowl Shape | Best For |
| Elongated (egg-shaped) | Maximum comfort and most primary bathrooms |
| Round (basketball-shaped) | Smaller bathrooms and powder rooms |
Which Toilet Height Is Right for You?
Today’s toilets come in several different heights, and choosing the right one can make a surprising difference in comfort.
Standard Height toilets measure approximately 15 inches from the floor to the top of the bowl (without the seat). This is the traditional height that many homeowners grew up with.
Right Height (also called Comfort Height) toilets measure approximately 17 inches. They make sitting down and standing up easier and are especially popular with taller adults and homeowners planning to age in place.
American Standard also recently introduced an Extra Tall Height toilet, approximately 19 inches from the floor, which is an excellent option for customers with mobility concerns or anyone wanting an even taller toilet.
The best part?
You don’t have to guess.
Stop by our showroom and actually sit on each height. You’ll quickly discover which one feels the most comfortable for you.
| Height | Bowl Height | Best For |
| Standard Height | Approximately 15″ | Traditional feel |
| Right Height / Comfort Height | Approximately 17″ | Most adults, taller individuals, aging in place |
| Extra Tall Height | Approximately 19″ | Mobility concerns and maximum comfort |
Slow-Close Seat or Traditional Wood Seat?
This mostly comes down to personal preference.
Slow-close seats have become very popular because they prevent the lid from slamming shut. They’re quieter, reduce wear on the toilet, and are especially nice in homes with children.
Many homeowners still prefer traditional wood seats because they have a sturdier feel and a classic appearance.
Both are excellent options, and we’re happy to help you decide which is right for your home.
Concealed Trap Toilets
If you’ve ever cleaned around the sides of a toilet, you’ve probably noticed all the curves where dust likes to collect.
Some Cadet Pro models offer a concealed trap, creating smooth sides that are easier to wipe clean and giving the toilet a sleek, modern appearance.
The tradeoff is that concealed trap toilets generally take a little longer to install, which can increase installation costs slightly. Some repairs can also require a bit more labor because the plumbing connections aren’t as accessible.
For many homeowners, though, the cleaner appearance and easier maintenance make it well worth the investment.
Looking for Something More Decorative?
While the Cadet Pro is our most common recommendation, some homeowners want a toilet with a little more style.
For those customers, we often recommend the American Standard Town Square collection. It offers a more elevated, furniture-inspired design while still providing the quality and reliability we’ve come to expect from American Standard.
Visit Our Showroom
Reading about toilets online can only tell you so much.
Our showroom lets you compare different bowl shapes, toilet heights, seat styles, and designs in person. You can actually sit on the different heights, compare a round bowl to an elongated bowl, and see which options feel most comfortable before making your decision.
We’re happy to answer your questions and help you choose a toilet you’ll be happy with for years to come.
We’ll Help You Choose the Right Toilet
There isn’t one perfect toilet for every home.
The best choice depends on your bathroom, your family’s needs, your comfort preferences, and your budget.
At Lohmeyer Plumbing, we’ll help you choose a toilet that’s built to last, performs well, and can still be repaired years down the road.
Because in our experience, that’s what makes a toilet a smart investment.