The choice of a bathroom faucet may come in tandem with the choice of the bathroom sink. Based on the style of bathroom that which you have decided on be it contemporary, country or luxury, monochromatic or a play of colour, family’s needs – for grooming, aesthetics, comfort,function; as well as whether they are easy to clean and maintain, you will then need to decide on several things when choosing the bathroom sink.
What Size Will Fit?
The size of your sink is dictated by the size of your cabinetry, countertops, and bathroom. Measure under your existing sink or where you want the new sink to be placed – leave at least 15 inch of space from the centerline of the bowl to the nearest wall, and for a double bowl lavatory sinks; 30 inch of space between the centerlines of each bowl. Take into consideration also how much additional counter space you might desire.
What Shape Works Best?
Shape is usually a matter of personal style, but in certain circumstances where space is limited, you may want to choose a corner sink to give you more room, such as small bathrooms or a sink in the bedroom. There is a unique and diverse selection of oval, rectangular, round, square, round-in-square sinks, as well as sinks with extra-wide rims add bonus counter space and room for such items as soap dishes, and cups.
Sink Applications
Bathroom sinks come in all shapes and sizes to complement any bathroom size and style. You will need to decide if you want consoles, pedestals, self-rimming, undermount sinks and vanity tops, or choose
Self-rimming Sinks
Self-rimming sinks are also called countertop sinks. These sinks are offered in a large variety of sizes, shapes, and hole configurations. They are mounted from above the counter with a visible rim that fits in the hole of the counter top. When deciding on this type of sink, be sure to take into consideration whether your faucet requires a single hole, 4 inch center set or 8 inch widespread configuration and be sure to order the sink in the same corresponding configuration.
Undermount Sinks
Undermount sinks also known as undercounter sinks, are installed from underneath a solid surface counter top, such as granite, stone or manmade material and does not have a “rim.” To install this style of sink you may need a mounting kit.
Pedestal Sinks
Pedestal sinks are freestanding sinks that sit on their own bases. Although ideal for for small bathrooms and powder room because they save space, they don’t offer any underneath storage space. When selecting a pedestal sink, be sure to consider the finish of the exposed plumbing items underneath.
Vessel Sinks
Vessel Style Sinks are basins also known as above-counter sinks. Vessel sinks can be mounted on ornate stands in the bathroom design. Select a faucet that has a spout long and tall enough to reach the bowl. Wall-mount faucets work well with this style sink, although tempered glass faucet stand which butts up to the glass vessels and hides the base of deck-mount faucets are also compatible. Some vessels are manufactured with an overflow but most are without an overflow, so a grid drain must be installed to prevent accidental over filling.
Console Sinks
Console Sinks is the combination of a pedestal while at the same time providing larger counter areas. The sink and countertop are one. Because of the larger counter area, console sinks come complete with either 2 or 4 legs for support. The legs are an integral part of the design.
Vanity Tops
Vanity tops are a one-piece counter top that has an integral sink, and they’re made from man-made materials. This one-piece unit is mounted directly onto a bathroom cabinet. This style offers a lot of choices in size and style of sink; oval, rectangular, square and round, and you can choose a single or double bowl. They are easy to clean and offer extra counter space. Standard sizes are available and custom orders can be placed.
Wall Hung Sinks
Wall hung sinks are installed on the wall, saving both floor and cabinet space. These are ideal for smaller bathrooms and can be installed at any height and are usually offered with an optional towel bar.
Materials
There are great choices of sink materials to suit every taste and décor. Bathroom sinks and lavatories are made from vitreous china, enameled cast iron, glass, natural stone, and stainless steel and more.
- Vitreous China and Fireclay Sinks are a ceramic-based material; best recognized for its smooth and glossy finish. The material is very durable and is available in almost any color, including hand-painted and sculptured designs. Damage could occur if a heavy object is accidentally dropped into the sink.
- Glass Sinks – Most glass sinks are made from tempered glass, which are stronger than you would expect. However, some sinks are not tempered, and should be used in a rarely used room or powder room etc. Manufacturers should indicate if a sink is tempered glass. When using a glass sink, it is best to mount a mirror rather than a medicine cabinet above, because damage may occur if a heavy object is accidentally dropped into the sink. A glass sink should be wiped down and dried after each and every use because water spots will show on the surface.
- Stainless Steel Sinks – Most stainless steel sinks are manufactured from 18 or 20 gauge steel with a chrome nickel content, which make them very solid and should not rust. Some stainless steel sinks are undercoated with a sound deadening material that reduces noise and inhibits condensation.
- Enameled Cast Iron Sinks are a solid cast iron base layered with a deep enamel surface. These sinks are extremely heavy and resist almost any type of structural damage. These long-lasting sinks are more difficult to install.
