Choosing The Best Bathroom Sink For Your Home

When completing a bathroom renovation one seemingly small decision amongst the many decisions that must be made, choosing a bathroom sink, is anything but a small decision in reality.

When completing a bathroom renovation one seemingly small decision amongst the many decisions that must be made, choosing a bathroom sink, is anything but a small decision in reality.  There are a wide variety of options when choosing a bathroom sink and each option will help set the tone and accentuate the features of your bathroom.  If you are designing a rustic bathroom the last thing you want is a modern sink – the aesthetic will be completely thrown off.  You must determine what the best style, material, color and installation method is best for your sink so that you can have the beautiful bathroom of which you have dreamt.

When choosing a sink you should first choose what installation method you prefer.  There are more options than you might think in this arena and they each have their own benefits.  Installation options include pedestal, wall-mount, undercounter, above counter/vessel, drop-in/countertop.  The type of sink you choose will depend on the particular effect you want it to have.  If you want a more dramatic look you may choose an above counter/vessel sink, if you want a more subtle look that is easy to clean you may choose an undercounter sink, if you are limited on space you may opt for a pedestal sink, if you prefer the minimalist look a wall-mounted sink may be best, and so on.

Next you will need to consider what size and shape are best for your bathroom.  While some basins are very small and just big enough for washing hands (which can be handy for space saving), other basins are quite large for a more prominent display.  Sink shape generally comes down to personal preference and aesthetic taste but may also be determined by available space.

Finally, you must select from an assortment of materials when choosing a sink.  These materials may include vitreous china, metal, glass, enameled cast-iron, stone, bronze, copper and more.  These materials are available at a wide variety of price points and some are more budget friendly than others.  Additionally, some materials are much easier to clean than others. Better Homes and Gardens elaborates on some of the advantages and disadvantages of various sink materials, “Porcelain-enameled cast iron is extremely durable and is easy to care for, but it’s heavy and needs a sturdy support system. Stainless steel is durable and unaffected by household chemicals. It does, however, tend to collect spots from hard water and soap. Vitreous china has a lustrous surface, is easy to clean, and is the most resistant to discoloration and corrosion. Keep in mind it can chip when struck by a heavy object. Fiberglass-reinforced plastic can be molded into novel shapes. It doesn’t hold a shine as well as other surfaces and is not as durable. Simulated or cultured marble and other solid-surface materials are handsome, but they may chip, and abrasive cleaners may spoil the finish.”  If you need help determining the best sink style for your bathroom renovation, consult your contractor or handyman for insider advice on what will look best and last the longest.