Mobile Toilet Renovation for Old Houses
Feasible solutions for renovating old houses with mobile toilets need to be combined with the structural characteristics of the houses, using methods such as space optimization, height utilization, or tool innovation to achieve flexible renovation. Here are specific methods and applicable scenario analyses:
1. Installing an electric toilet indoors: Suitable for old houses with limited space and inability to lay sewage pipes For historic protected buildings or old houses with limited space (such as the case at 1543 Sichuan North Road, Hongkou District), if traditional sewage pipes cannot be installed due to building protection requirements or difficulties in pipe laying, an electric toilet can be used. This device achieves 'in-place addition indoors' by optimizing the internal space layout: for example, relocating idle furniture (such as a large wardrobe) to free up installation space and adding a curtain for privacy. Electric toilets typically use water storage or suction-type sewage disposal and require regular cleaning of the sewage storage tank, making them suitable for single-household use and scenarios with high hygiene requirements. The core advantage is that there is no need to modify the main structure of the building, but a power outlet needs to be reserved and the capacity and cleaning frequency of the sewage storage tank need to be considered.
2. Designing a small loft using height: Suitable for old houses with sufficient height and potential for vertical space utilization For old houses with high ceilings but limited planar space, such as Victorian-style houses (such as the case on Kunshan Garden Road, North Bund Street), the problem of lacking sanitary facilities can be solved by building a small loft. For example, a light steel or wooden loft can be built using a height of 3-4 meters above the kitchen or bedroom, retaining the original functions below and adding a bathroom above. This solution needs to focus on solving waterproofing, load-bearing, and ventilation issues: the loft floor needs to be waterproofed and covered with non-slip tiles; lightweight materials (such as sauna boards) can reduce load-bearing pressure; a skylight or exhaust fan can be installed on the top to ensure ventilation. After renovation, a structural safety inspection is required to ensure compliance with building codes.
3. 'Squat-to-sit' flexible adaptation tools: Suitable for old houses that have been renovated and need to retain the original squat toilet For old houses where the squat toilet cannot be removed (such as renovated bathrooms), an adjustable-height 'squat-to-sit' chair can be selected. This tool has four independently adjustable feet at the bottom to adapt to squat toilets of different sizes and slopes, without the need to modify pipes or break floor tiles. After installation, the squat toilet can be directly converted into a sitting toilet. Applicable scenarios include bathrooms that need quick renovation for the elderly or those with mobility impairments. However, attention should be paid to the load-bearing range of the tool (usually not exceeding 120 kilograms) and its anti-slip design to avoid displacement or tipping during use.
The above solutions all reflect a refined approach of 'one policy per area, one plan per project', requiring comprehensive selection based on the house structure, protection requirements, and usage needs, prioritizing renovation methods that have the least impact on the building, are cost-effective, and meet hygiene standards.
