Most people don’t immediately think of the sink and faucet when they remodel the bathroom, and when they do, it is often the last thing they consider. Usually, the rough plumbing goes behind the wall of a bathroom remodel, and this is typically done at the start of the renovation. However, a bathroom renovation contractor will have to know what type of sink and faucet you want before the rough plumbing is installed.
With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to choose a faucet and sink, but there are some tips that can help you narrow down your choices:
To start the process of choosing the sink and faucet, consider taking some ideas along with you when you meet your contractor for the first time. If possible, bring photos or pictures from magazines to show what you like, or even what you hate. This will give the design team an idea of what your preferred style is, and it will make it easier for them to recommend products. You should also talk about your budget when you meet with the contractor for the first time, as plumbing fixtures run the gamut when it comes to price. It is possible to have a beautiful bathroom at any budget, you just must make sure the contractor knows exactly what that budget is before they start planning and recommending elements for the bathroom, including the sink and faucet.
Some Options For Bathroom Sinks
There are a number of styles to choose from when it comes to a bathroom sink. A drop-in sink, for instance, is an economical choice, but there is a challenge when it comes to cleaning the area where the sink meets the countertop. An under-mount sink is another option, and they are available for a number of budgets. Since these are installed under the countertop, they are much easier to care for than a drop in sink.
Another option is a vessel sink. These are quite trendy, but they do have more expense associated with them. However, many will choose to spend a bit more on these sinks as they add a unique design element to the bathroom. The integral sink, which is when the sink and countertop are a single piece, might be an ideal choice for some homeowners, and if you have a small bathroom, you might consider a pedestal sink.
When it come to materials, vitreous china is extremely popular, as it is easy to maintain, affordable, and it works well when it comes to matching most decors. Metal is another option, and some of the most popular materials include copper, stainless steel and brass. Metal sinks look best in contemporary bathrooms, or those with a rustic design. However, these sinks often are more expensive and require more maintenance. Glass is a popular high-end option for a bathroom sink, and marble is popular to bring an elegant and luxurious look to the bathroom.
The Bathroom Faucet
Now that you know more about your options for sinks in the bathroom, it is now time to think about the faucet. Most people are surprised to know that your choice of faucet can be more expensive than the sink, and can take a big piece out of your budget. Many people see the faucet as a focal point of their bathroom, and in some cases, like a piece of art.
One option you have when choosing a faucet is a wide-spread faucet. This has a spout with both hot and cold handles. They have drillings from 6 to 20 inches, and they require three holes in the sink. There are also mini versions, which require a 4-inch center. A two-handle centerset faucet is another option, and the spout and handles are both combined on one base. Each valve needs its own hole in the countertop or sink. A single set faucet is usually centerset, but it has a spout and single handle in one piece. A wall-mounted faucet is a final popular option, and in this case, the faucet matches well with both freestanding and over-the-counter sinks, but they require a wall-mount valve and a drain. This faucet makes it easy to clean your sink because you won’t have to fight with the faucet to clean the backsplash.
Faucet Finishes
Choosing a finish is the final choice when it comes to the faucet, and it generally depends on the style of the bathroom. For more traditional bathrooms, for example, oil-rubbed bronze is a good choice, but polished nickel is nice for contemporary decor. Chrome and satin nickel are also popular, but chrome can be more expensive than the other options.
To really find out which options are best for your bathroom, it is best for you to visit a showroom and see the items in person. Take the suggestions from the experts, stick to your budget, and you will be shocked by how beautiful your bathroom can look.
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