While we love to “sell” our vanities, we think it’s more important that you find the perfect one for you. We don’t want you to take home just any vanity — it must be perfect for you. And the first step is to understand exactly how to find the perfect vanity that not only looks but great — but also has all the functionality you need — and is also a perfect fit for your bathroom. So let’s get to it.
Here are some tips for effectively measuring your vanity…
- Measure sizes for vanity cabinets with tops.
- Typical countertop height is 31 inches. Average is 31-35 1/2 inches. Adults may want a top a bit taller — children may require one lower.
- Typical cabinet widths are 24, 30, 36, 48, and 60 inches.
- Typical cabinet depths are 17 to 24 inches
- If you’re purchasing a vanity without a top, you need to measure for the countertop. Measure the width/depth of the vanity cabinet.
- The vanity top should be 1 inch wider and 1 inch deeper than the vanity cabinet.
- Determine all storage needs.
- Allow for fillers if you plan to use them. A filler (or filler strip) is a piece of wood used next to a vanity to close any gap that’s between the vanity and wall.
- Leave enough room for door openings (entry/ shower) and trim.
- Make sure the vanity doesn’t disrupt any walkways, mirrors, electrical switches or outlets.
- Install the vanity (if possible) near existing piping to save plumbing expenses.
Next…
Here are some tips for selecting vanity styles…
- Vanities comes as either “freestanding” or “built-in.”
- Freestanding vanities are an excellent choice for small spaces and come in a vast number of styles.
- Built-in vanities are better for large spaces and offer more countertop space and storage.
- Vanities are sold with or without a top.
- Installing a vanity with a top is easier — the downside is that you’re limited to the top that’s sold with the vanity.
- Purchasing a vanity without a top allows you to choose your own material. Countertops are available in solid surface, glass, cultured and natural stone.
- Vanities help define your bathroom space. Since they’re separate from the rest of the home, you can deviate a bit from the rest of the home’s style.
Next…
- Here are some tips for selecting colors and finishes…
- Vanities come in glass, metal or wood.
- Vanities colors typically include white, black, light brown or espresso finishes.
- Wood vanities can also be painted the color of your choice.
And some final tips…
- Find out if the vanity you’re choosing comes with the drawer and door hardware. You may need to select new pulls and knobs.
- Find out if the vanity comes with a sink and faucet. Most are pre-drilled for faucets. You may need to select a faucet when you purchase. The most popular openings are drilled for center-set or widespread faucets. Widespread faucets have a spout with separate hot and cold water handles. All pieces appear to be separate. Widespread faucets are available with 6- to 16-inch drillings for 3-hole predrilled installation basins. Centerset faucets are made for 4-inch predrilled with 3-hole installation basins. They combine a spout and valves on a single base unit. Centerset faucets may have a single-handle mixing lever or two handles mounted on a 6-inch plate.
- Larger vanities with large storage areas are better for everyday usage.
- Wood vanities typically are made from basic engineered wood, birch or pine to more expensive materials such as Asian hardwood, oak, and maple.
- Try to find a vanity with a matching mirror for a consistent look in your bathroom.
We have a slew of high quality vanities in stock right now. Some vanities are regular in-stock items and many are one-time-only purchases. That means we have one and when it’s gone it’s gone forever.
You have to stop in and see our ever-changing selection of bathroom vanities today at Builder Supply Outlet or call our Edge Showroom designers for information at 1-708-343-3900.