Toilet Partitions

About Toilet Partitions

These partitions are used to divide bathroom stalls in public and semi-public restrooms. While most people tend to take them for granted, they're a vital feature to consider when designing a public washroom with several toilet stalls. 

Consider how awkward it would be to use a communal outhouse without divider screens during the most vulnerable activity. Therefore, in some ways, they also function like office screens and partitions by protecting users from bacteria created by splashbacks, coughs, sneezes, and flushes. Since the pandemic, personal space has gained further relevance, and these cubicle dividers offer respite in that regard.

Installation

Before starting the installation process, it is vital to clear the area of any debris and read the instruction manual. This is because each partition can have different instructions depending on its configuration.  

The first step involves laying wall brackets and floor plates, drilling holes to fasten each panel, and securing the brackets and expansion shields. This is followed by positioning the panels and attaching the U-brackets into the pilaster. After that, the pilaster is placed into the brackets and secured onto the panel using screws. The last process involves preparing the door to hang, erecting the rest of the compartments, and securing the headrail.

Types

Toilet partitions are a standard feature in public restrooms, but there is a considerable variety in the kinds of partitions available. Hence, they can be grouped into three broad categories:

Standard American

These cubicle dividers are standard for American commercial toilets and urinals. They are recognizable by the 12-inch gap on the bottom and a discernible opening at the edge. However, this can be a disadvantage for users who want complete privacy as it isn't all-encompassing.

European

These restroom partitions are standard for European toilets, as the name suggests. The main difference between these variants and their American counterparts is that they do not feature significant gaps between the doors, offering more privacy. 

The bottom of the partition misses out on the large gap and does away with any sightlines. Also, many European toilet partitions extend to the ceiling, making them more like small rooms than cubicles.

Single-Use Cubicle

These toilet partitions are intended for single toilet bathrooms and only allow one user at a time. As a result, they offer the most privacy as users do not share the space with others. Moreover, there are no sightlines or gaps because they are entirely closed from all ends. These cubicles might also feature soap dispensers and hand towel dispensers within the enclosed space.

Materials

As semi-permanent and permanent structures, these cubicles need to be robust. However, some establishments prioritize look over functionality and procure toilet partitions that don't last. To provide clarity on the depth of options, here are the most commonly used materials when manufacturing toilet stalls:

Metal

Metal partitions are the standard option for most bathroom stalls in the United States and the world. This is because they are economical and barely require maintenance. Moreover, the most popular choice for metal partition materials is powder-coated steel.

Lastly, these partitions exude a sleek finish on the exterior, albeit with a limited range of color options. 

Plastic Laminate

These partitions are slightly more expensive than powder-coated steel metal partitions. They can cost roughly 10% higher than the metal models and offer versatility in styling options. Furthermore, these partitions can be found in a wide color range and can be easily customized.

The only downside to plastic laminate toilet stalls is that they are not fit for humid localities or areas where they are bound to contact a lot of water, such as pool bathrooms. As a result, they are also not suitable to use as shower partitions.

Solid Plastic

Unlike the plastic laminate variants, solid plastic dividers are highly durable and water-resistant. They are constructed using robust plastic panels, generally one-inch thick. Therefore, they are more expensive than the powder-coated steel and plastic laminate versions.

Due to their durability, these partitions are preferred for most public bathroom stalls, highway pit-stops, and heavy-traffic bathrooms. Unfortunately, the downside to their sturdy construction is their high cost — the price depends on the configuration and quantity of partitions.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel toilet stalls offer durability and sophistication. These partitions can be customized with patterns engraved on the panels, offering a sleek finish.

Out of the four materials used for bathroom partitions, stainless steel variants are the most expensive. However, they also last much longer than other types and are scratch-resistant. What's more, they are easy to clean and can be used anywhere, including in humid and wet areas.

Other Factors To Consider

Not every buying process is black and white. As an owner of a public establishment, one must consider ease-of-use for customers and maintenance convenience for the staff before making a purchase.

Stalls For the Physically Impaired

These accessible toilet partitions, also known as ADA stalls, are a standard requirement for all public bathrooms. Since they're meant to accommodate wheelchairs and mobility devices, they are also naturally larger than regular stalls. In addition, they may at times accommodate sensor taps and automatic hand dryers to make life easy for disabled users.

Toilet Partitions In Tight Spaces

Some restroom spaces feature toilet stalls configured between tight spaces where it can be challenging to accommodate a standard partition. Some of these toilet partitions can be set between two walls or in-corner to make use of otherwise wasted space and make room for plumbing supplies.

Installing a toilet partition has never been easier. Thanks to ArchiPro's range of quality bathroom partitions, everyone has access to a diverse range of configurations and layouts.

If you need assistance to find the right toilet partitions for your home or office, ArchiPro provides a connection to the various professionals, ready to assist with all requirements and questions. Simply click "Contact supplier" on the product's page, or visit the supplier's website directly from the product's page.