Buyers GuideUpdated June 28, 2026
For many River Forest homeowners, updating a bathroom means more than picking tile patterns. Practical upgrades, like switching to a comfort-height toilet, are becoming a standard request. In homes that date back a century or more, the original fixtures often sit lower than what most adults or anyone with mobility issues finds comfortable. Swapping these out is a straightforward way to make daily routines easier and your bathroom safer.
Why Older River Forest Homes Benefit from Comfort-Height Toilets
A lot of the homes in River Forest have bathrooms built before accessibility was a consideration. Standard toilets from half a century ago can be 14 to 15 inches from floor to seat. Comfort-height models, sometimes called ADA-compliant toilets, come in at 17 to 19 inches. That few extra inches can make a big difference for older adults, taller people, or anyone with stiff joints or knee issues. You end up with a seat height that's much closer to a typical chair, reducing the effort it takes to stand up or sit down.
Because River Forest's housing stock is a mix of Prairie School, Colonial Revival, and modern styles, we see everything from original cast iron stacks to more modern PVC. Toilets are one of the most used fixtures, and the upgrade rarely disrupts the existing plumbing if you work with someone who knows their way around older supply lines and waste pipes.
Choosing the Right Comfort-Height Toilet
There's more to selecting a toilet than just the seat height. Homeowners here often ask us about:
- Bowl Shape: Elongated bowls offer more comfort but need more space than round bowls, which fit better in small bathrooms.
- Flush Type: Gravity-fed is typical, but pressure-assisted models offer stronger flushing if you have older drain lines prone to clogs. Water efficiency is also important, especially if you want to reduce usage from the Lake Michigan supply.
- Finish and Quality: Porcelain glazing and sturdy components are important, especially in households with heavy usage.
- Rough-In Size: Most homes in River Forest use a standard 12-inch rough-in, but some older homes may have 10 or 14-inch setups. It's crucial to measure before you purchase.
If your project includes upgrading other fixtures, our crew can help with faucet and fixture installation at the same time for a unified look and less downtime.
Installation Considerations in River Forest Bathrooms
Installing a comfort-height toilet should be pretty direct, but in older homes, there are a few things to check. Corroded galvanized supply lines or aging shut-off valves are common. Sometimes the existing wax ring has broken down, or the flange needs repair. In these cases, we recommend handling pipe repair or repiping simultaneously for lasting results. If your bathroom has clay tile waste lines (seen in some early 20th-century homes), we inspect for cracks or root intrusion before installing the new fixture.
With River Forest's clay-heavy soil and flat terrain, some bathrooms on lower levels may experience backup issues. If you've noticed slow drains before, it's wise to schedule drain cleaning as part of your upgrade so you don't end up with surprises after the new toilet is in place.
Advantages of Switching to a Comfort-Height Toilet
Aside from comfort, these toilets have a safety advantage. Reducing the strain on knees and hips cuts the risk of slips and falls, especially for seniors. In homes where someone has recovered from surgery or faces chronic mobility issues, the benefit is clear. Modern comfort-height toilets are also more water efficient than older models, helping you avoid higher bills and wasted water.
For multi-generational households or homes that might go on the market, accessible upgrades like this add value. Prospective buyers often look for features that support aging in place.
Practical Steps for a Smooth Upgrade
- Measure your rough-in distance from the wall to the toilet bolts before shopping.
- Check supply lines and shut-off valves for signs of corrosion or leaking. Replace if needed.
- Inspect the toilet flange and wax ring for cracks or wear.
- If you have persistent drain issues, address them before new installation. Consider a professional sewer inspection if the home is older or you've had repeated backups.
- Coordinate with a licensed plumber for any adjustments to water lines to avoid future leaks or water hammer.
Homes in River Forest often have unique architectural details and older plumbing systems. Our team is comfortable working with the quirks that come with historic houses and can prevent common installation headaches.
Other Things to Consider During a Remodel
If your remodel goes beyond a toilet upgrade, it might be the right time to think about the bigger picture. For example, old supply lines and aging shut-off valves may be behind walls or under floors. Tackling these during a remodel can save trouble down the road. If you've had issues with leaks, our leak detection and repair service can pinpoint concerns before they become an emergency.
For full-scale renovations, check our bathroom remodeling page for guidance on layout, fixture choices, and planning for accessibility as needs change. River Forest's mix of architectural styles calls for a tailored approach, and we're ready to help you navigate code requirements and tie new work into the existing structure safely.
If you're planning a bathroom update or just want to make life a little easier, our crew is ready to help with every step. Call us at 708-734-6186 for advice or to schedule your comfort-height toilet installation in River Forest.