Choosing a Bathroom Sink and Vanity

Bathrooms are no longer just functional places for a quick wash. Our bathrooms are our own personal sanctuaries; they’re becoming ever more luxurious and reflective of our tastes and favourite decorating styles.

Nowadays, you’re not limited to just a shiny white bowl. Bathroom sinks come in all different shapes, sizes, colours and materials – and with a wide range of price tags. So, whether you’re designing a bathroom from scratch, remodelling or just replacing the sink, keep an eye out for deals at Fowles Home Renovator Auction. Before you buy, there are a number of things to consider.

Undermount Bathroom Sink

Undermount Bathroom Sink

Types of bathroom sinks

Wall mounted porcelain sinks work well in small bathrooms. Small and compact designs aren’t difficult to find, and they allow for usable space below the sink. Pedestal sinks are similar in that the sink base is attached to the wall, but they rest on a pedestal that hides the trap and the pipes. These sinks can also work in small spaces, as there’s no need for a vanity.

Vanities can be matched with three different types of basins: over-mount, under-mount and vessel-style. Undermount and over-mount basins are placed in a cut-out in the vanity’s countertop. Over-mount basins are the most traditional; they are dropped in, with a lip around the perimeter of the cut-out. Under-mount sinks, which have been a popular option for the past 20 years or so, are mounted underneath the vanity countertop, creating a smooth surface. The vessel sink, a nice looking alternative with a lot of creative potential, is a free-standing bowl that sits on the vanity.

Bathroom basin materials

  • white porcelain or vitreous china sink is probably the least expensive choice if you’re on a budget. These come in round, oval or square shapes and can be fitted into a countertop or set on a pedestal. China is durable and easily cleaned, but can be chipped or cracked if knocked hard enough.
  • Glass is most commonly used for vessel sinks. These come in endless colours, textures and shapes. The bowl usually sits on the vanity countertop. Hard water deposits can leave spots on the glass if it’s not wiped clean.
  • Metal basins are usually made of stainless steel, brass, chrome or copper. They are less common in bathrooms than they are in kitchens, but they are a good alternative to ceramic sinks. Keep in mind that metal basins made of thicker material are less likely to dent.
  • Stone comes in a myriad of varieties. Polished stone has a smooth finish and requires sealing to protect the surface from stains.
  • Solid surface (for example, DuPont™ Corian®) is usually made from the same material as solid surface countertops and comes as an integrated part of the vanity top, making for easy one-piece assembly. It’s a good choice for hard-working bathrooms with children in the house.

See before you buy

At Fowles, we hold Auctions every Wednesday at 10:00 am. You can view before you buy between Monday and Friday from 7:30am to 5:00 pm. The bathroom goods, including sinks, basins and vanities, are an excellent value, and you’ll find carpets and building materials on auction, too. You never know what you might find for a fraction of its original cost.