Quick Tips On Buying The Perfect Bathroom Vanity

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June 8, 2018

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.