Ways to hide pipes in the toilet: ideas and step-by-step instructions with images and videos.

How to disguise pipes without a box?

The materials used to cover communications must meet the following requirements:

• Ease of installation. When disguising pipes with your own hands, it is important that even a novice craftsman can handle the task.
• Durability and wear resistance. If the structure is movable, the material must withstand constant mechanical loads.
• Resistance to moisture. Condensation accumulates on some pipes, and in combined bathrooms, the source of moisture is the sink or bathtub.
• Convenience and ergonomics. In typical apartments, toilets are not very large, so not only the aesthetic component is important, but also saving space.

Pipes are common property. It is important that in the event of a leak or inspection, access to the devices remains open, so it is not advisable to build blind structures. The main danger of walled-up pipes is that when they start leaking, the process will go unnoticed. And when the accident is noticed by the neighbors below, you will have to urgently open the walls.

Before installation work, you should put all the pipes in order, check the valves and meters: this is a mandatory condition that will allow the products to last longer and avoid additional costs in the event of an accident.

With the help of a plumbing cabinet, you can not only hide the pipes in the toilet, but also create additional storage space for construction tools or cleaning products. There will be free access to the sewer riser, and the bathroom will look aesthetically pleasing.

The photo shows a closet in a Khrushchev-era, custom-made from laminated chipboard. With its help it is easy to hide pipes in the toilet and keep the room attractive in appearance.

Tools and materials

You can order a toilet cabinet from a furniture company or make it yourself. For work you will need:

• Building level.
• Tape measure.
• Screwdriver, screws, dowels.
• Drill.
• Jigsaw.
• Hinges for fastening doors.
• Blanks for creating a toilet cabinet: boards, chipboard, laminated chipboard or MDF.
• Wooden blocks.
• Covering film that will protect the floor from damage.

Step-by-step instructions

Let’s get to work:

1. First of all, you need to take all the measurements and make a detailed drawing. The purchase of materials and fittings is made in accordance with the dimensions of the future cabinet, as well as the features of the layout and piping.
2. If the cabinet in the toilet is made of wood, the material should be impregnated with a water-repellent compound or varnished. Stain is also used: you can use different shades to make the cabinet more original.
3. If there is room for internal shelves behind the toilet, we make supports for them from corners or timber scraps. We lay the shelves, having previously cut out holes for the pipes. If high loads are not expected, you can use plywood.
4. To install a built-in cabinet, we make markings on the side walls of the toilet. We construct a frame from a bar, connecting the parts with screws.
5. We install the frame, nailing the corners to the walls and ceiling with dowels. If the location of the pipes allows, you can attach the side walls of 16-18 mm thick laminated chipboard to the walls to the full depth.
6. We screw the doors with screws or with a screwdriver to the vertical bar of the frame. Apartment owners often choose louvered doors, as in the photo below. They look stylish and modern, can be painted in any color, and the holes in the doors will help ventilate the finished cabinet.

If the cabinet in the toilet is made of wood, the material should be impregnated with a water-repellent compound or varnished. Stain is also used: you can use different shades to make the cabinet more original.

If there is space for internal shelves behind the toilet, we make supports for them from corners or timber scraps. We lay the shelves, having previously cut out holes for the pipes. If high loads are not expected, you can use plywood.

To install a built-in closet, we make markings on the side walls of the toilet. We construct a frame from a bar, connecting the parts with screws.

We install the frame, nailing the corners to the walls and ceiling with dowels. If the location of the pipes allows, you can attach the side walls of 16-18 mm thick laminated chipboard to the walls to the full depth.

We screw the doors with self-tapping screws or with a screwdriver to the vertical beam of the frame. Apartment owners often choose louvered doors, as in the photo below. They look stylish and modern, can be painted in any color, and the holes in the doors will help ventilate the finished cabinet.

Covering pipes with plastic panels

A box or false wall made of PVC panels is another cheap and practical way to hide sewer and water pipes in the toilet. Plastic is not afraid of moisture and fungus, it is durable and lightweight, and easy to care for.

This method is appropriate if the entire bathroom is lined with PVC panels: then the box will fit perfectly into the interior. Installation of products with the right approach will not cause difficulties and will not take much time.

In case of an accident during disassembly of the structure, the material will not be damaged – this is especially important for pipes that are not insured against leaks. After eliminating the breakdown, the box can be easily reassembled.

In the photo, the sewer pipes in the toilet are hidden in a box made of plastic panels. The other walls are tiled with ceramic tiles, but the finishing material is matched to the color, so the difference is not immediately apparent.

Tools and materials

To cover the pipes in the toilet with PVC panels, you will need:

• Level.
• Roulette.
• Self-tapping screws, Euro screws and dowels.
• Sharp knife.
• Metal profiles or wooden blocks.
• Plastic panels for finishing.
• Special hatches.
• Plinths designed to mask joints.
• Jigsaw or hacksaw, if the frame is made of wood.
• Screwdriver.

The photo shows fittings for plastic panels: finishing profile, connecting profile, internal corner and corner external.

Step-by-step instructions

1. We take the necessary measurements, draw a drawing, taking into account the openings for access to the pipe layout and meters. We start working with the supporting profiles: vertical and horizontal guides (or wooden posts) will set the size of the box or partition. We fasten them to the walls using Euro screws and dowels.
2. To reliably cover the pipes and other communications in the toilet with plastic panels, it is necessary to add jumpers. To do this, measure equal segments 50 cm long. Next, we install the starting profile, securing it along the perimeter with small screws.
3. We install decorative panels in accordance with the instructions. If the lathing is even, there will be no problems with installation.

4. We cut inspection holes and close them with hatches. One of the panels can be secured with silicone sealant to have access to the pipeline elements. In places of joints we install plastic corners and baseboards, fix with glue or “liquid nails”. PVC panels are both the main and finishing finish, that is why they are so popular in Russia. In the photo you can see how neatly the back wall of the toilet looks after masking the pipes.

To reliably cover pipes and other communications in the toilet with plastic panels, it is necessary to add jumpers. To do this, measure out equal sections 50 cm long. Next, install the starting profile, securing it around the perimeter with small screws.

Install decorative panels in accordance with the instructions. If the sheathing is even, there will be no problems with installation.

We cut inspection holes and close them with hatches. One of the panels can be fixed with silicone sealant to have access to the pipeline elements. In the joints, we install plastic corners and baseboards, fix them with glue or “liquid nails”. PVC panels are both the main and finishing finish, which is why they are so popular in Russia. The photo shows how neat the back wall of the toilet looks after masking the pipes.

We cut inspection holes and close them with hatches. One of the panels can be secured with silicone sealant to have access to the pipeline elements. In the joints, we install plastic corners and baseboards, fixing them with glue or “liquid nails”. PVC panels are both the main and finishing finish, which is why they are so popular in Russia. The photo shows how neat the back wall of the toilet looks after masking the pipes.

How to cover pipes with plasterboard?

A plasterboard box is a product that even a beginner can handle. First, as for PVC panels, a frame is constructed from a metal profile. Some use wooden blocks, but metal is considered a more suitable material. The frame is covered with moisture-resistant plasterboard, since the toilet is a room with high humidity. It is recommended to decorate the finished structure with a suitable material: tiles, mosaics, paint or wallpaper.

The pipes can be partially sewn up, giving the box almost any shape (for example, leaving space for a sink and faucet, bending around a water heater) or erecting a large structure. If the pipes are located on the side or in the corner of the toilet, creating a box is the best choice, since the installation will leave a lot of free space.

The photo shows a box made of moisture-resistant plasterboard with a communication hatch and porcelain tile cladding.

Tools and materials

To hide sewer pipes in the toilet with your own hands, you will need:

• Screwdriver and screws
• Scissors and metal shears.
• Level.
• Tape measure.
• Spatulas.
• Drywall knife.
• Roller.
• Moisture-resistant drywall.
• Aluminum profile.
• Screws and dowels.
• Finishing materials, putty, primer.
• Reinforcing tape.
• Soundproofing material.

The photo shows a minimum list of materials intended for creating a plasterboard box.

Step-by-step instructions

Let’s start making the box:

1. Make a drawing in accordance with the measurements. You should leave room for the thermal insulation material.
2. Make markings on the floor and walls in accordance with the diagram. You can use a simple or laser level. We fasten the metal guides with dowels.
3. To make the lathing more reliable, we create stiffeners: we cut additional elements from the metal profile, the width of which corresponds to the distance between the vertical guides. The corner profile is fastened at the top and bottom with small self-tapping screws.
4. Before sheathing the frame, we make markings on the sheets of drywall in accordance with the drawing.
5. We cut out the material: we cut the layer of cardboard with a knife, slightly deepening the blade into the plaster. Carefully bend the sheet and cut from the opposite side.

6. Before closing all the pipes in the toilet with drywall, we cut out inspection holes for hatches and access to communications. Only after this we proceed to the sheathing. We place the plasterboard sheet parts against the lathing and screw them in place. Carefully trim any uneven areas with a knife.

7. We eliminate any defects (joints and holes from screws) using plaster and putty: we prime the structure, then reinforce the corners with a special tape so that the solution does not crack when drying. Defects are eliminated by sanding with sandpaper.
8. We prime the surface again to improve adhesion. After the primer has completely dried, you can glue ceramic tiles, mosaics, and even install laminate. Durable porcelain stoneware will allow you to mask the hole if you use the tile as a door façade, as in the photo below. The structure can also be painted or covered with moisture-resistant wallpaper.

We make markings on the floor and walls in accordance with the diagram. You can use a simple or laser level. We fasten the metal guides with dowels.

To make the lathing more reliable, we create stiffeners: we cut additional elements from the metal profile, the width of which corresponds to the distance between the vertical guides. The corner profile is fastened at the top and bottom with small self-tapping screws.

Before covering the frame, mark the sheets of drywall according to the drawing.

Cut out the material: use a knife to cut the cardboard layer, slightly deepening the blade into the plaster. Carefully bend the sheet and cut from the opposite side.

Before closing all the pipes in the toilet with plasterboard, cut out inspection holes for hatches and access to utilities. Only after this do we proceed to the sheathing. We place the plasterboard sheet parts against the lathing and screw them in place. Carefully trim any unevenness with a knife.

Before closing all the pipes in the toilet with plasterboard, cut out inspection holes for hatches and access to utilities. Only after this do we proceed to the sheathing. We place the plasterboard sheet parts against the lathing and screw them in place. Carefully trim any uneven areas with a knife.

We eliminate any defects (joints and holes from screws) using plaster and putty: we prime the structure, then reinforce the corners with a special tape so that the solution does not crack when it dries. Defects are eliminated by sanding with sandpaper.

Prime the surface again to improve adhesion. After the primer has completely dried, you can glue ceramic tiles, mosaics, and even install laminate. Durable porcelain stoneware will allow you to mask the hole if you use the tile as a door façade, as in the photo below. The structure can also be painted or covered with moisture-resistant wallpaper.

Hiding the pipes and leaving access

Another modern way to disguise pipes in the toilet is roller shutters (or roller blinds), which were previously installed to protect entrance doors from burglary. Today, these structures have found wider application in the home and perform the following functions: they close the closet on the balcony, hide sewer pipes and are even used as a door to the pantry.

Roller shutters are mobile: they are easy to lift and provide access to communications and metering devices. The design has a smooth, single-color surface, but for greater attractiveness and comfort, you can choose models with a pattern that is applied using photo printing. Roller shutters are made in different sizes, and the opening method allows you to save space in the toilet.

The photo shows a combined bathroom with a box in which access to sewer pipes is left. White roller shutters are used as a door.

Roller shutters are made of aluminum or plastic. The latter must be handled with care: despite its resistance to moisture and rust, plastic is not as durable as metal. Aluminum roller shutters are considered more suitable for the toilet: they are more expensive, but they are durable and aesthetically pleasing. This is especially important if the partition will be raised and lowered frequently.

Tools and materials

For self-installation you will need:

• Roller shutters with a protective box, canvas and mechanism.
• Drill with metal drill bits.
• Pliers.
• Hammer.
• Screwdriver.
• Metal scissors.
• Screwdriver.

The photo shows a standard diagram of the product, consisting of slats, protective box, guide rails and roller shaft.

Installation instructions

To choose the right box, you need to take into account the dimensions of the rectangular opening. Let’s get to work:

1. Completely clear the area intended for installing the box. Decide on the installation method. If the depth of the plumbing niche allows, a massive structure is installed inside: this arrangement looks more attractive:
2. If there is not enough space, the box is installed outside:
3. After installing the box, adjust its position using a level. If the pipes at the bottom interfere with closing, then the structure is mounted in two parts with a rise at the junction.
4. Assemble the canvas and attach it to the shaft. Install the stopper and check the smoothness of the movement. It is important that the shutters do not creak and move freely.
   Specialists are usually called in to select the model and carry out the installation. But you can assemble the structure yourself by studying the detailed description in this video:

If there is not enough space, the box is installed on the outside:

After installing the box, adjust its position using the level. If the pipes at the bottom interfere with closing, then the structure is assembled from two parts with a rise at the junction.

We assemble the canvas and attach it to the shaft. We install the stopper and check the smoothness of the movement. It is important that the shutters do not creak and move freely.
Specialists are usually involved in choosing a model and carrying out installation. But you can assemble the structure yourself by studying the detailed description in this video:

Which method is better for a small toilet?

To build a complex overall partition in the bathroom, you will need a lot of material and free space, which means the method is not suitable for a cramped toilet. The optimal solution is considered to be boxes that repeat the curves of the water supply units: they not only mask the pipes, but also serve as additional shelves for hygiene items. Various blinds also save useful space: unlike swing doors, they take up less space.

To minimize the loss of space in the bathroom, you can use hidden installation of pipes. This option is suitable for small toilets. It is implemented at the initial stage of repair and only after a complete replacement of communications with modern ones. For hidden installation, copper or plastic pipes are used: they are sewn directly into the wall or floor. The grooves are made using a hammer drill and grinder in accordance with the number and diameter of the pipes. This solution requires considerable financial costs and certain skills. Do not forget about the holes for access to the meters.

What other options are there without repair?

In order to hide a wall with pipes without extra costs, it is recommended to use ordinary blinds. This budget method is perfect for those who do not want to build complex structures or are considering a temporary option. Wooden blinds will fit perfectly into the eco-style, and plastic ones – into the modern one. But if the bathroom interior is made in a classic style, the products are unlikely to fit into the overall design.

Plastic blinds will last as long as possible: they are practically not afraid of water, they are easy to care for. The modern market offers a wide range of products, which allows you to choose a design to match the color of the finish. Unfortunately, blinds do not have sound insulation, and do not completely cover the pipes – you will have to build a separate box for the bottom.

If major repairs are not planned, and the pipes do not fit into the interior in any way, you can order a special hanging cabinet. Its installation will not take much time, but part of the communications will be hidden.

Many women will appreciate another idea for decorating pipes in the toilet: an ordinary roller blind will help to hide unsightly elements – the main thing is to purchase a product that is suitable in width and height. There will be no difficulties with its placement. Roller blinds are available in a wide range of colors, and the material is protected with special antistatic and antibacterial compounds.

In the photo, bright blinds, located at an angle, successfully hide communications. In an emergency, they will allow you to instantly shut off the water supply.

For connoisseurs of style loft is even simpler: if the toilet is designed in an industrial style, the pipes can serve as excellent decor that matches the chosen style. You only need to put the communications in order, eliminating defects, cleaning off old layers or simply replacing them with modern ones.

The photo shows a loft-style bathroom – brickwork serves as decoration, and the black pipes near the sink are painted in a single color. Standing out against the terracotta background, open pipes become one of the main highlights of the interior.