When it comes to renovating a bathroom, the sink offers a chance to showcase personality, style, or a unique design element, all while remaining functional for typical tasks like hand and face washing. Selecting a bathroom sink involves much more than just finding the right color of white porcelain, as it once did. Today, homeowners can choose from a wide variety of colors, materials, styles, and options. There’s also an extensive range of places to purchase bathroom sinks. While the process may seem daunting, with the right tools and knowledge, the shopping and selection can be a breeze.
Where to Start
Choosing elements for a home renovation can be exciting at first, but it often becomes overwhelming as practical considerations, like dimensions and functionality, come into play. Bathroom renovations are particularly challenging because each decision often involves plumbing or electrical work—things that are difficult or nearly impossible to alter. Add to this the fact that bathrooms are typically smaller spaces compared to other rooms in a home, and the task can become even more complex.
The selection process for a sink should always begin with the cabinet. First, decide if you’ll be keeping your existing cabinet, renovating it (perhaps by changing the countertop), or completely replacing it. The cabinet will determine how much space you have to choose the style or size of your sink. If you’re unsure about measurements or design elements, consider involving a design professional to guide you through the process.
Knowing the Product
Just like most products, sinks come in high-end, mid-range, and budget-friendly options. Lower-end, cost-efficient sinks can often be found at home improvement stores. When selecting your sink, make sure to inspect it for chips, cracks, or dings, as these flaws can affect both its appearance and functionality. These sinks are generally standard in size and shape, but you can customize their look with the right cabinet and faucet choices.
Mid-range sinks fall somewhere in the middle price-wise but offer more features than basic home improvement store options. These sinks might feature a deeper well or be made from materials that give them a more custom feel. Some mid-range sinks also offer trendy features, such as countertop mounting, where the sink sits on top of the countertop rather than being installed beneath it. While this style isn’t for everyone, it can be the perfect choice for the right bathroom.
High-end sinks range from personalized art pieces to custom designs, such as those made from recycled glass or shaped like narrow troughs. The range of colors and options is almost limitless. However, homeowners should be cautious with high-end sinks as they can sometimes detract from a home’s resale value if prospective buyers find the design too extravagant and feel that the bathroom will need to be remodeled to better suit their tastes.
Where to Shop
Most people don’t have extensive experience shopping for bathroom sinks, which can make it difficult to know where to go or what to look for. Depending on the quality of sink you’re after, standard options are usually available at home improvement stores. However, more custom sinks can be found at interior design studios or through custom home designers. Additionally, antique shops may have original or replica sinks that fit your design style, and some outlets sell used or refurbished sinks that can be more affordable and environmentally friendly.
As with most purchases, it’s a good idea to keep an open mind and evaluate all your options before making a decision. Be sure to have your sink’s dimensions and any color preferences on hand while you shop. A sales professional can also assist you in finding the most cost-effective solution or help guide you toward a product that suits your style.
Things to Consider
Once you’ve chosen the size, color, and shape of your sink, there are still other factors to consider for your bathroom renovation project. The faucet is almost as important as the sink itself. The style and color of the faucet should complement the sink, while providing the functionality you need. Think about whether the faucet’s knobs are easy to use, especially depending on how the sink will be installed, or if you’d prefer a movable faucet head. Keep in mind that the cost of the faucet can sometimes exceed the cost of the sink, so ensure that the faucet you select will be a good match for the sink you’ve chosen.
Another consideration is potential cost savings. Some sinks come bundled with a cabinet or faucet, which can save money overall. There are also sink-and-countertop combinations available, which not only save money but also reduce installation time. You might also save by hiring a professional to install your sink. Incorrect installation can lead to damage to your cabinet, the contents within it, and even the walls and floors of your bathroom.
