Sinks and Lavatories

Bathroom sinks are sometimes called lavatories. They are available in an indefinite range of color, pattern, style, design, height, depth, width, and material. They come in pedestal, wall hung, under-counter, above counter, integrated, self-rimming, and freestanding. With such a wide variety, you can create the decor that best suits you.

Materials

Sinks are available in many materials including vitreous china, enameled cast iron, fireclay, glass, stainless steel, brass, nickel, copper, marble, and both real and synthetic stone. Each material has its own unique characteristics.

Clay would be one of the oldest materials used to make a sink. Clay can chip or break.

Earthenware is porous clay glazed and decoratively painted. Most people tend to use the china or cast iron because earthenware crackles over time.

Fireclay, or ceramic, is smooth and non-porous. It will not fade, discolor, or rust. You can get these sinks in plain, sculpted, or hand-painted.

Vitreous China is earthenware that is cast and glazed to provide a glossy, durable and stain-resistant surface. You can find these in many different colors that are hand-painted, etched, hammered, matte, and carved finishes.

Glass and crystal sinks are the hottest trend in pricey bathrooms. You can get these in vessel, pedestal, wall mount, over-the-counter, and under-the-counter models. Glass sinks are more durable than you may think, but they will and do break. Remember that your bathroom sink may be beautiful, but this doesn't always mean that it's practical. The best made tempered and laminated glass can crack and break (at least it will not shatter to a million pieces). Glass sinks can be found in a variety of finishes: textured, colored, frosted and etched. If your taste requires glass, just don't forget to use it with care.

Metal sinks are the most durable. They are available in: stainless steel, cast iron, copper, brass, or a combination of those. (Refer to kitchen sink materials for more information)

Styles

Pedestal sinks feature a basin that rests on a pedestal base to conceal the drain and supply lines. Mostly, they are made from vitreous china, but can be found in porcelain-coated steel. They provide a unique decor look, but have no counter or storage space. They work nicely in a very small bathroom that does not require any bathroom accessories to be stored. These sinks require the water and drainage lines in a particular place, so be sure to select the sink before construction.

Vessels look very elegant. They are made from spun glass, lead crystal, china, fireclay, earthenware, cast iron and stainless steel. They can rest above the countertop, wall-mount, be installed in a self-rimming application, or under-the-counter. Vessel sinks are usually fully exposed, so installing in a family bathroom would not be recommended.

Wall-mount sinks are a basin hung from the wall. They are place at your requested height. They can be mounted flush to the wall, recessed or semi-recessed and are available in a wide range of sizes, including small hand sinks. You do not get much storage space with them.

Self-rimming sinks are lowest prices and most common. The edges lap the countertop.

Under-mounted and integral sinks are sinks have hidden edges. Under-mounted sinks attach below the countertop. An integral sink is made out of the same material as the countertop but is fused to it, creating a seamless transition. Stainless steel, solid surface, and composite materials are flexible enough to mold integral sinks. These sink styles give a nice clean look and allow easy cleanup.