FAQs

Row of contemporary faucet displays inside The Water Closet showroom with bright lighting and polished floors.

Where is the closest Water Closet showroom?

We have beautiful showrooms across Montana in Billings, Bozeman, Kalispell, and Missoula. Each location offers an inspiring, hands-on experience where you can explore our full range of premium plumbing fixtures in person.

Billings: 1725 Majestic Lane, Billings, MT — 406-248-5671

Kalispell: 1780 Montana Hwy 35, Kalispell, MT 59901 — 406-752-6562

Bozeman: 1419 North 14th Ave, Bozeman, MT 59715 — 406-388-2045

Missoula: 5055 Expressway, Missoula, MT 59808 — 406-519-0969

You don’t need to be a licensed plumber to shop with us — everyone’s welcome to visit, browse, and find inspiration for your next remodel or new build.

What do you call toilets that are smooth on the sides?

Those are called skirted or concealed trapway toilets. They feature a smooth, streamlined design from top to bottom, hiding the traditional curves and bends of the toilet base. This not only creates a clean, modern look but also makes the exterior much easier to clean and maintain.

What are the different materials used for kitchen sinks?

Kitchen sinks come in a variety of materials, each offering its own look, feel, and benefits:

  • Stainless Steel: A timeless, durable choice that resists stains and corrosion — ideal for busy kitchens.
  • Cast Iron: Features a strong metal core coated in glossy enamel for a classic, high-end appearance.
  • Fireclay: Crafted from molded clay with a porcelain-like glaze; beautifully smooth, resistant to scratches, and easy to clean.
  • Composite: Made from a blend of quartz or granite with acrylic resins; offers a modern matte finish and excellent durability.

Each material has its own style and performance advantages — our showroom experts can help you compare options in person to find the best fit for your kitchen.

Do bar sink faucets have pull-down sprayers too?

Not all bar sink faucets include a pull-down sprayer. Many are designed with a fixed spout to suit smaller sinks or prep areas. Some models do feature a pull-down or pull-out spray function, but they often work a little differently than full-size kitchen faucets — you may need to hold the button to maintain the spray, rather than pressing it once to toggle modes.

If you’re looking for a bar faucet with a specific spray function, our showroom team can help you compare styles and features in person to find the perfect fit for your space.

Do freestanding acrylic tubs hold heat as well as cast iron tubs?

Scientifically, cast iron tubs retain heat longer than acrylic tubs because of their dense material. However, many homeowners who’ve owned both say the difference is barely noticeable during a typical bath.

Acrylic tubs offer several advantages — they’re lighter in weight, more affordable, and can often be installed on any floor level without extra reinforcement. They’re also easier to repair if scratched, making them a practical and stylish choice for modern bathrooms.

What’s the difference between single-handle, 4" spread, and 8" spread lavatory faucets?

The main difference is in the installation style and number of holes required on your sink or countertop:(make the following a list of bullet points)

  • Single-Handle Faucet: Requires one hole. Both hot and cold water lines connect through the same opening, and you control temperature and flow with a single lever.
  • 4" Spread (Centerset) Faucet: Requires two or three holes spaced 4 inches apart (center to center). The handles and spout are connected on one base plate, making it compact and ideal for smaller vanities.
  • 8" Spread (Widespread) Faucet: Requires three separate holes spaced 8 inches apart. The spout and handles are individual pieces, offering a more spacious, upscale look.(end of list)

If you’re unsure which configuration works best for your vanity or countertop, our showroom experts can help you choose the right fit for your space and design.

Are quartz composite sinks durable? Are they hard to keep clean?

Quartz composite sinks are among the most durable options available. Their smooth, non-porous surface resists stains, scratches, dents, and chips — and it’s also easy to keep clean. These sinks can withstand temperatures up to 535°F and naturally resist bacteria and odors, making them a smart and long-lasting choice for any kitchen.

Do you have any walk-in showers that aren’t just white fiberglass?

Yes! We offer high-quality walk-in shower wall kits from Therma-Glass and MAAX, featuring beautiful alternatives to standard white fiberglass. These durable, heavy-duty wall systems come in a variety of colors, patterns, and finishes — allowing you to create a custom look that fits your style.

They’re not only stylish and modern, but also easy to install and maintain, making them a perfect upgrade for any bathroom remodel.

Can I use any brand of shower trim with any brand of rough-in valve?

No — shower trim and rough-in valves must be from the same brand to ensure proper fit and function. Each manufacturer designs their valves and trim to work together as a complete system, so mixing brands can cause compatibility issues and installation problems.If you’re unsure which trim matches your existing valve, our showroom team can help you identify the right pairing or recommend an upgrade that fits your style and setup

Do you stock Moen bathroom collections?

Yes — we carry several popular Moen bathroom collections, including Genta, Brantford, and Eva, available in a variety of finishes and styles. Visit one of our Montana showrooms to see these collections in person and explore coordinating faucets, shower fixtures, and accessories.

What are your top three selling brands?

Our top-selling brands are Elkay, Moen, and Delta — trusted names known for their quality, style, and lasting performance. These collections offer a wide range of options for kitchens and bathrooms, from modern designs to timeless classics.Visit our showrooms to explore these brands in person and see why they’re customer favorites.

Do you stock Moen kitchen faucets?

Yes — we carry several popular Moen kitchen faucet collections, including Genta, Brantford, Arbor, and Sleek, all available in a range of finishes and styles. Visit one of our Montana showrooms to see these faucets in person and find the perfect fit for your kitchen design.

Does matte black show hard water marks?

Yes — matte black finishes can show hard water spots more easily than lighter finishes. To keep them looking their best, our manufacturers recommend cleaning with a half-and-half mixture of warm soapy water and vinegar. This gentle solution removes buildup without damaging the finish, helping your fixtures stay sleek and beautiful.

Why should I buy from you when big-box stores carry the same products?

While some items may look similar, The Water Closet carries professional-grade fixtures designed for long-term performance. Many of our products feature all-brass internal components and are specified by plumbers and builders for their superior quality and reliability.

Plus, when you shop with us, you get personalized guidance from our experienced showroom team — ensuring you select the right fixtures for your space, installation, and design goals.