Bathroom Sink Buying Guide
The bathroom sink and faucet are a significant piece of any well designed bathroom. The correct bathroom sink can be both practical and fashionable. Listed below are the most widely recognized styles of bathroom sinks.
Types of Sinks
Self Rimming sinks
These sinks come in a large variety of sizes, shapes, and hole designs. They are mounted from above the counter with a visible edge and can be used with a wide range of countertops.
Undermount sinks
Installed from underneath a strong surface counter top, for example, granite, marble, stone or man-made material, for example, Corian and does not have an edge. Counter mounted or divider mounted faucets are regular with this design; therefore the number of holes for the faucet is not a factor in this sink application.
Pedestal sinks are freestanding sinks
TheseĀ sink sit on their own bases. These sinks are a great space saver, making them ideal for smaller bathrooms and powder rooms. When selecting a pedestal sink, be sure to consider the completion of the exposed pipes items (channel and flexibly lines) underneath and coordinate them to your faucet.
Vessel sinks
Commonly sit on head of a counter or furniture top and come in different shapes and designs. Divider mounted or tall vessel filler faucets that provide adequate clearance above the edge of the sink are regular faucets for this application. Some vessel sinks come with pre-drilled holes so faucets can be mounted directly to the vessel.
Console sinks
They combine the style of a pedestal while giving larger counter areas. Console sinks come complete with either (2) or (4) legs for help. The pipes under the sink will be visible, be sure to consider the completion of the exposed pipes items underneath and coordinate them to your faucet.
Vanity Tops
A one-piece counter top that has the sink implicit and are made from man-made materials, for example, Corion. These sinks do not come with bases, be sure to know the exact dimensions of your vanity cabinet to ensure a proper fit. Tops are generally up to 1 larger than the vanity they sit on, which provides a slight overhang.
Vanities
These are marble countertops complete with a sink bowl and carved wood cabinets/bases. The cabinet styles include plenty of storage and come in a variety of sizes, hues and finishes and add an elegant touch to any bathroom.
Divider Hung sinks
These are very well known in smaller bathrooms because they are hung directly on the divider and save floor space. They can be installed at any height on a level divider or in a corner and are often offered with a discretionary towel bar.
Materials to Consider
Vitreous China and Fireclay Sinks – A ceramic-based material with a smooth and lustrous completion that is very durable. These sinks come in a wide range of hues that coordinate with other bathroom fixtures.