Should You Tile Under Or Around The Toilet When Installing Floor Heating?

SOME DECISIONS ARE ALREADY MADE FOR YOU

Whatever your design objectives are for your bathroom remodel or redesign (there is a difference), if you are planning to take it to the next level by adding the comfort and practicality of electric radiant floor heating, some decisions are already made for you.

For example, under no circumstance is the floor heating system installed underneath permanent fixtures such as cabinets, bathtubs or toilets.

The floor heating system must be completely encapsulated in modified thinset.

Additionally, when laying out your radiant electric floor heating system, you will need to keep the heated wire at least 6 inches from the wax ring installed under the toilet.

Let’s move on to installation options for you to consider.

SHOULD I TILE UNDER OR AROUND THE TOILET?

While either method will work, the vast majority of both tile professionals and DIYs are in favor of removing the existing toilet and tiling underneath. It is worth mentioning that the only time you will likely confront this option is if you are removing bathroom carpeting (always a good idea) or vinyl flooring and replacing with tile.

In these instances, some have chosen to go what appears to be the “easier route” and leave the toilet alone, perhaps thinking “if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it.”

Why though are the majority of professionals in favor of tiling under the toilet?

Here are some top reasons why:

lLess cutting involved – less frustration trying to cut the tile up to the toilet.

lEasier to replace the toilet down the road, especially if it has a different footprint.

lThe end result looks more professional.