The support frame: what is it?
When you choose a new toilet, you have the choice between several different models (free-standing toilet, wall-hung toilet, Japanese toilet, etc.). The differences between these models are mainly based on their functionality (or not), the layout of the room and the installation methods. If you choose a wall-hung toilet, you will need a support frame. This allows you to support wall-hung toilets, integrate a flush tank and other pipes. In this article, we give you a quick overview of what a rack is, and what you need to think about when installing one.
What is a support frame?
Today, due to their lower cost and ease of installation, the majority of installed WCs are still countertop WCs (installed on the floor). However, wall-hung toilets have advantages that free-standing toilets do not have. There are two main advantages: ease of cleaning and aesthetics.
As you have probably understood, in the case of a wall-hung toilet, the bowl is fixed to the wall, and not to the floor. Not being in contact with the ground, the installation requires a support frame (retaining support) to keep them secure. These toilet brackets are hidden in the wall (or inside a formwork in front of your wall) and provide an excellent level of support for your toilet, keeping it secure and giving you extra peace of mind. They undergo rigorous testing to ensure they are capable of supporting significant weights, so you won't have to worry about them falling apart - they are made to withstand around 400kg!
The main function of the support frame is therefore to provide support for the wall-hung toilet. But we will find other essential elements inside it such as the water tank, the connection for the control plate (which is incorporated so as to be placed in a practical location), and the pipes.
The different support frame models
A support frame attaches to the wall, the floor, or both. It is important to choose the most appropriate type of fixing for your bathroom. A support frame cannot be fixed to a plaster wall for example. Here are the 3 most common types of support frames:
The support frame fixed to the wall and floor
Ideal if you have a wall capable of supporting heavy loads and a softer floor made of parquet or parquet. Attachment is to the wall and floor.
The wall-mounted support frame
To be installed only on a wall capable of supporting heavy loads (concrete wall, solid brick wall, etc.). The fixing is done entirely at the level of a wall. Its installation is faster and its cost lower.
The support frame fixed to the ground
Ideal if your walls cannot support heavy loads. This type of support frame generally has 4 feet, which makes it more stable. It is today the most used type of support frame because it is suitable for all room configurations. However, its installation is more complex and its cost higher.
Pneumatic support frame and mechanical support frame
Today, you have the choice between two types of support frames when you install a wall-hung toilet: mechanical and pneumatic. Their difference lies in the hunting system.
Mechanical support frame
Mechanical support frames have existed since the beginning of wall-hung toilets. As the name suggests, they work with a mechanical system (pulling and pushing).
Pneumatic support frame
Pneumatic support frames, on the other hand, have a pneumatically triggered flush. To put it simply, a transmitter made up of pistons and capillaries will enable the flush to be activated. Due to lower production costs, the latter is less expensive than a mechanical support frame.
Support frame and PMR WC
The installation of a support frame and a suspended bowl allows adjustment to meet the PMR standards imposed. In fact, it is possible to adjust the height of the bowl on the support frame. Wall-hung toilet and support frame therefore do not pose any particular problem when designing a bathroom for a person with reduced mobility or a person who perhaps cannot bend very low.
The Geberit support frame: a reference brand!
Geberit is a Swiss group specialized and leader in sanitary installations. It is therefore at the same time the leader in support frames. Due to ease of installation, superior quality, as well as simplified maintenance, Geberit Sigma support frames are for us the best solution for your sanitary installations. Among all its models, the Geberit brand offers surface-mounted or self-supporting support frames, and at different heights. All Geberit support frames can be combined with the majority of Geberit flush plates and with all conventional wall-hung WCs.
Price of a support frame
Today, the price of a support frame varies between 100 and 500 euros. The cost will be determined by many factors, such as the capacity of the tank, the dimensions, or the presence or not of a pneumatic mechanism. As said above, it is the universal building which is the most expensive with a price between 300 and 500 euros.
Notes when choosing a support frame
Being responsible for the solidity and stability of your bowl as well as the connection of the various hydraulic parts, the support frame should not be neglected in your installation!
We always recommend hiring a professional plumber to install a wall-hung toilet, as it is a technical job that must be carried out correctly to avoid serious problems.
We also recommend that you invest in quality equipment. Buying a cheap support frame is not recommended.
Finally, choose reputable brands and NF standardized products! This standard is often a guarantee of quality, and should reassure you.