A wall-mount sink attaches directly to the wall instead of resting on a pedestal or vanity cabinet. This leaves plenty of space under the sink and allows you to position the sink at a height that works best for you, making it an ideal option for bathrooms that need to be accessible for wheelchair users. The design also makes cleaning the floors around and under the sink easier.
When installing a wall-mount sink, it's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure a proper fit and secure attachment so the sink doesn't fall. The following guide includes general directions for safely installing a wall-mount sink and tips to help you incorporate the new sink into the existing room's design.
What to Consider Before Installing a Wall-Mount Sink
Before installing a wall-mount sink, think about the layout of the room and your lifestyle. With a little planning, you can anticipate potential problems and make adjustments as needed.
- Wall-mount sinks must attach directly to the wall studs or wood blocking. The sink needs to be securely attached to the wall since it does not have a vanity or console supporting its weight. This is especially true in a home with small children who may like climbing on the sink while they're playing. A poorly secured sink under the pressure of additional weight can fall from the wall.
- Verify the weight of the sink and the selected hardware before purchasing the items. Wall-mount sinks come in an array of sizes, weighing in from under 50 pounds to as much as 300 pounds. However, it's also important to consider the weight of the faucet and drain that will attach to the sink. The heavier the setup, the more work needs to be done to ensure a solid connection that stays in place.
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Have a plan for dealing with the exposed plumbing. Without a vanity covering, the plumbing lines are out in the open for everyone to see. This adds an industrial or vintage look to the room, and it presents an opportunity to get creative. One option is to install a new P-trap. Others may decide to paint the pipes or find other ways to hide them.
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Match the finish of the hardware with the rest of the fixtures in the bathroom. Exposed pipes should ideally coordinate with other fixtures like the shower faucet and toilet handle. Consider choosing a single finish, like matte black or polished chrome, for all the fixtures, or pair fixtures by selecting coordinating undertones. The warmth of oil-rubbed bronze looks good with warm brass.
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Make sure the room has enough storage space. Homeowners who are used to a bathroom vanity may be surprised to see how much storage space they lose when they remove it. A larger medicine cabinet, shelves strategically positioned on the walls, and accessories like towel rings and towel bars can provide much-needed storage in the room.
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