Design challenge: with better flushing capability and enhanced styling, new toilets are well-rounded

Building Products, Jan-Feb, 2005 by Linda C. Lentz

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

Porcher. A 21st-century upgrade of a contemporary classic, the Veneto II one-piece toilet has been given a performance boost with its parent company's Champion flushing technology. Available in the spring, this second-generation unitoffers a capacious flush valve, 2 3.8-inch siphon trapway, and auto-close Flush Tower of this new system, as well as the sleek good looks of the original Veneto. 866-455-6118. www.porcher-us.com. Circle 312.

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

Briggs. One of three two-piece Vacuity models to offer the company's PowerVAC vacuum-assisted flushing system me subtly curved Aegis is said to provide quiet efficient clog-resistant one-flush performance due, in part, to its powerful siphon action and generous 2 1/8-inch glazed trapway. Available in round elongated and Comfort Heignt versions, all three styles come with a 10-year limited warranty 800-888-4458. www.briggsplumbing.com. Circle 313.

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

Sterling. With its Dual Force dual-flush technology that allows the user to choose between 1.6 or .8 gallons per flush depending on need, the two-piece gravity-fed Rockton is said to provide exceptional water savings along with a powerful and dependable single-flush performance. Additionally, the toilet's siphonic wash-down system directs water through the rim to keep the bowl clean. Colors include white and Kohler almond, ice grey, and biscuit. 888-7837546. www.sterlingplumbing.com. Circle 314.

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

Mansfield. Available in a variety of colors with an optional SmartClose seat, the new Maverick toilet is equipped with the company's new gravity-fed Magna Flushing System. Engineered to deliver a powerful and effective flush by incorporating a generous 3-inch flush valve, improved trapway, and forceful siphon action, this system is backed by a limited lifetime warranty. 877-850-3060. www. mansfieldplumbing.com. Circle 315.

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

Gerber, Available in one- and two-piece styles, multiple rough-in configurations and sizes, round and elongated bowl shapes, as well as standard and 17-inch seat heights, the Ultra Flush pressure-assist toilet is considered by the company to be its top system with superior drainline carry performance. Features include an expansive trapway averaging 3 1/8 inches in diameter and a large water surface area. 847-675-6570. www.gerber online.com. Circle 320.

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

American Standard. A stylish upgrade of the company's original Champion, the Normal Height elongated one-piece 1.6-gpf gravity-fed toilet is just one of the latest models to offer this innovative flushing technology claimed to virtually eliminate clogging. Accompanied by a comprehensive 10-year warranty, this sleek unit boasts a 3 1/2-inch flush valve, 2 3/8-inch glazed siphon trapway, and self-closing flapper-free Flush Tower. 800442-1902. www.americanstandard-us.com. Circle 316.

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

Male Call

Considering the status of bathrooms, it should come as no surprise that urinals are of interest to sophisticated homeowners with an eye toward luxury and practicality.