Bathroom Sinks

TO HELP OUR CLIENTS

There are many choices of bathroom sinks available. Our list features pros and cons to help you make an informed decision. At the bottom of this page, we’ve included a few brand websites for you to explore. Popham does not endorse these resources, but only supplies them as a convenient source of information. Popham also encourages you to visit local business resources such as Ferguson Enterprises and Winnelson to view samples in person.

Sink Types:

TOP-MOUNT (Drop-in, Self-Rimming) — Pros: This type is mounted on top of the counter. Top-mounts work with any countertop material and are the simplest to install. Con: Grime and mold typically forms around the lip of the sink.

UNDER-MOUNT — Pros: Best for a sleek look and easy cleanup. Spills from counters can be wiped directly into the sink. Faucets are installed into the counter or mounted on a wall. Con: Some under-mount sinks can’t be used with laminate or tile countertops.

PEDESTAL — Pros: They can be modern or traditional in style. The pedestal style adds visual space to a small room. Cons: There isn’t much usable area around the basin of the sink, and they lack storage space that vanities offer.

VESSEL — A vessel sink is a basin that sits on top of a bathroom vanity/counter. They are available in many kinds of materials. Cons: Vessel sinks do not come with overflow relief drains, and they require specific faucet types.

A Note About FAUCETS — Make sure any faucet extends well into the sink to avoid drips onto the counter. Don’t choose a large faucet for a small sink, which can cause splashing. Please see our Kitchen & Bath Faucet category for more details.

Sink Materials:

ACRYLIC — Pros: Acrylic sinks are non-porous, meaning that liquids do not seep in, causing stains. Scratches can be sanded and buffed. Cons: These types of sinks should not be cleaned abrasively though as the finish will be damaged. They are also not heat resistant.

CERAMIC/PORCELAIN/VITREOUS CHINA — Pros of each: Ceramic is opaque and is more porous than porcelain. Porcelain is translucent and is superior in resisting staining. Vitreous china is durable high-gloss enamel-glazed ceramic. Cons: These sinks can stain and will chip if heavy objects are dropped onto its surface. They are also quite heavy.

CULTURED MARBLE — These lightweight, resin sinks and vanity tops are made of polymers mixed with marble dust. Pros: They are waterproof, durable, and resistant to chipping. Cons: They should not be cleaned abrasively as the finish will be damaged. They are also not heat resistant.

GLASS — Pros: Glass is durable. Drain cleaner, nail polish remover, and other tough staining agents typically won’t leave a mark. Cons: To avoid cracking, be sure to purchase tempered glass. Glass is prone to water and soap spotting, which requires more cleaning.

METALLIC — Pros: Brass and Copper metals make gorgeous bathroom sinks. They are non-porous and will not stain. Cons: Brass and Copper will oxidize with time and, therefore, change colors. These soft metals can easily scratch and dent.

SOLID SURFACE — Pros: These sinks can be paired with countertops made of the same material for a sleek, seamless look. Common types are cultured marble, Swanstone, and Corian. Cons: Though solid-surface sinks scratch easily, the damage can be sanded and buffed away.

STAINLESS STEEL — Pros: Manufacturers typically charge more for thicker, 18-gauge stainless sinks than for thinner, 23-gauge models. Regard- less of gauge, most models are resistant to dents, stains, scratches, heat, and noise from water flow. Cons: Prone to water and soap spotting. Needs polishing.

STONE — Pros: Engineered stone and quartz composite, marble, granite, travertine, and onyx are the ultimate in luxury bathroom sink materials. Cons: They are heavy and can chip.

www.aquaglass.com
www.batesandbates.com
www.artesiansinks.com
en.custombronzeart.com
www.robern.com
www.us.kohler.com
www.ronbow.com
www.stoneforest.com