Choose the right wall-hung bathroom suite

Ideal for a modern look, wall-hung sanitaryware looks sleek and is easy to clean

Start with these frequently asked questions.

1 What is wall-hung sanitaryware?
Loos, bidets and basins that are fitted directly onto the wall rather than supported by a floorstanding pedestal.

2 Will my bathroom walls take the weight?
To find out what type of wall you have, ask a builder for advice. He will be able to tell you whether you have solid walls or stud walls. Solid walls (brick, block or stone) require long, sturdy fixings such as Fischer bolts, which are drilled directly into the wall for a firm fix. Stud walls (plasterboard or ply fixed to a stud frame) will need to have a steel frame fitted behind to screw the suite to. This is often fixed to the ceiling, floor and joists to balance the weight, then the sanitaryware is bolted on. Geberit's Duofix frame can support up to 400kg - easily strong enough to hold a standard basin, loo and bidet.

3 What about pipework?
Pipework can usually be chased into solid walls by your builder, but it may be quicker and easier to simply box it in (potentially creating handy surfaces and storage) or put in a floor-to-ceiling stud wall to conceal it.

4 What's the fitting process?
First, the pipework and any electrics go in, along with any steel frames. All pipework should be flushed though and pressure tested at this point. Next is the boxing in or building of stud walls then, with all the preparation done, the sanitaryware is fitted and pipework connected. A plumber can easily do all these tasks, apart from the electrical works.

5 What happens if there's a leak behind the boxing in?
You should leave an access plate, such as a removable tile, especially near a concealed loo cistern, as they have moving parts that can wear out over time. Always make sure the pipework is pressure-tested for leaks before it is sealed in.

Advantages of wall-hung

Easy to clean: with no base or pedestal to keep clean, wall-hung sanitaryware is a hygienic choice, particularly in wet rooms, as there are no fittings at floor level for water or dirt to collect around.

Sense of space: keeping the floor clear is a designer's trick for making a room feel more spacious. The more floor you can see, the bigger the room will feel.

Design features: alcoves and shelving can be added when you are boxing in pipework or installing stud walls, enabling you to display accessories and create storage. Inset lighting within alcoves adds extra interest.

Stylish looks: because wall-hung sanitaryware is not hindered by pedestals and bases, individual pieces tend to come in more interesting shapes than floorstanding versions.

Good to know
Wall-hung loos can be positioned higher than standard loos, making them easier to use for anyone with limited mobility

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