Bathroom Sink Styles: 7 Types To Consider

So…you’re finally ready to tackle that bathroom remodel. Picking out a bathroom sink was definitely not at the top of the “remodel list” when we started our bathroom overhaul last year.

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We had no idea there were so many different styles to choose from or the questions we needed to ask prior to swinging that ole sledgehammer!First, which bathroom were we remodeling? (master en suite, family bathroom, powder room).

Second, Who will be using this bathroom and how much space do we have?Answering these two simple questions can help narrow down your decisions.

There are plenty of options to choose from but…it doesn’t have to give you a headache!Here are some bathroom sink styles to help make your decision a little easier, depending on which bathroom you are remodeling.

Bathroom Sink Options For Small Spaces

Pedestal Bathroom Sink

The pedestal bathroom sink is a classic sink style. Its self-supporting mechanism allows it to be installed in small bathrooms. Space-saving yet chic, the pedestal or legs come in a variety of designs.

Pros: This sink is aesthetically pleasing in a small bathroom, offered in a wide variety of styles & designs. It also conceals your drainage pipe.

Cons: you won’t have any storage space under the sink or any counter space. around for toiletries.

Wall mounted bathroom sinks

Widely popular sink style. Its space-saving function is part of its appeal. Simply mount it on a wall. There’s no need for additional fixtures or a countertop. It also saves floor space.

Pros: A wall-mounted sink doesn’t have any cabinets below it, which saves space and also leaves more visible floor area, making the room feel bigger.

Cons: Just like the pedestal sink, you won’t have any storage space under the sink or countertop space.

Bathroom Sink Options for Larger Spaces: ( good for family or master baths)

Top Mount Bathroom Sink

Probably the most commonly used, a top-mount or drop-in sink is designed to sit on top of, and visible above, the counter.

Pros: These sinks can be found in stock at most home stores ranging from basic to high-end design, available in a variety of colors. This is a great option if you are simply changing the sink on your existing countertop. Easy to install.

Cons: One disadvantage of this sink type is that the rim makes it a little more difficult to keep the countertop clean. There’s also the potential for water damage.

Undermount Sink

The undermount sink is mounted below the countertop creating a smooth, seamless look and maximizing countertop space. With this sink style, it is easy to wipe down contents of your countertop into the basin. This sink is only compatible with solid material countertops. (solid surface or concrete)

Pros: This sink can give your bathroom a clean and contemporary look paired with solid surface countertops.

Cons: Often more expensive than a top-mounted sink and are not compatible with all countertop material, such as laminate or wood. ( raw edges of the particleboard or plywood countertop substrate would be left exposed).

Undermount Bathroom Sink

All-in-one sink and countertop

Many off-the-shelf vanity cabinets that can be purchased from bathroom supply stores offer an all-in-one countertop with a sink that sits on top. With this style, the sink itself is actually molded as part of the countertop. It can be made from various materials, such as porcelain or acrylic.

Pros: Easy to clean and a great option for busy households. There are no ridges or seams, so they can look very streamlined. Usually available in a wide variety of standard sizes.

Cons: designed so the countertop gradually slopes down and inward to create a sink in the middle. This can lead to having less flat counter space than say a top-mount or drop-in sink.

Vessel Sink

If you are looking to make a bold style statement, then the vessel sink is the best choice. Available in porcelain, glass, stone and even copper — this sink sits on top of the countertop. These sinks are stylish and are sure to add some quirk to your bathroom. Some are sold with its own faucet. Maintenance will depend on the sink’s material.

Pros: This sink demands attention and is a great way to make a bold statement in your bathroom.

Cons: Sits higher than other sinks so careful planning of countertop & vanity height must be considered, otherwise it will be uncomfortable to use.

Semi-recessed sink

If your bathroom has limited space, but you would still like some vanity cabinets below your sink for storage, then a semi-recessed option might be a good option.

Pros: Due to the design of this sink, this allows for much shallower cabinets- maybe as much as 12 inches. This could free up some valuable floor space in your bathroom.

Cons: With no countertop around the front of the sink to catch water, splashes or spills could occur. Storage space is also more limited.Now armed with a little more information on your different options available, you can find the bathroom sink that best fits your design & style.If you are still in the beginning stages of planning your bathroom model, this < ;a href="https://builderssurplus.us/bathroom-remodeling-your-complete-guide/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">complete bathroom remodeling guide will help make your remodel…and life easier

Builders Surplus is a full service renovation company with locations in Louisville, Kentucky, and Newport, Kentucky, which also serves Cincinnati, Ohio. We are the leading provider of Bathroom Remodeling, Bathroom Cabinets, Vanity tops and backsplash tile in Louisville, Newport, and Cincinnati. We specialize in interior design, kitchen design, bathroom remodel, building materials, and home improvement. Interior Design and measurements come as a free service to our clients. We sell building materials ranging in every price point, from unfinished kitchen cabinets to top of the line Wellborn cabinets. In addition to interior design, we also offer installation services. If you have any questions or would like to set up a free design consultation with one of our interior designers, we would encourage you to do so. We love sharing our knowledge with clients & potential home renovators. We write about interior design, home decor, decorating ideas, and home improvement. We hope you’ll check back in for our next article! Happy Renovation!

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February 6, 2018

Drop in, Undermount, Vessel, or Farm Sink?

The style of sink that you should choose for your kitchen or bathroom design is often a decision that baffles many homeowners. While there is no right or wrong answer, there are pros and cons to each type that you should be aware of before purchasing. The space that it will be installed also plays a part in the sink mounting option that you should choose. Lets dive in and see which style will work the best for your home and budget!

Drop In Style:

A drop in sink is a sink that can be lowered easily into the space that is designated in the countertop. The rim of the sink extends over top of the counter, so that it rests on the counter top and supports the sink’s weight. Drop in sinks typically have clamps on them that are located underneath the sink the help to make it more secure. They might have holes for faucets, or the faucets may be mounted onto the countertop instead.
Pros:

A drop in sink is not effected by an irregular opening in countertop, such as chips, uneven cuts, etc.
If your countertop is made from a soft material such as marble or wood, a drop in sink will protect the edges of your countertops.
A drop in sink is typically cheaper than other sink styles.
Drop in sinks are some of the easiest to install, making them a great DIY project.

Cons:

Many people don’t like the look of drop in sinks. This is all personal preference, but many people like to see the edges of higher grade building materials like granite or quartz.
With a drop in sink, pieces of food can swept or stuck underneath the edges of the sink that sits on the countertop. This can lead to mildew, bacteria and a build up of germs that can be unhealthy.
They can be more difficult to clean on those same edges.

Undermount Style:

Undermount sinks are named that because of the way that they sit UNDER the countertop. Instead of being dropped into a hole in the countertop, undermount sinks are installed under the counter and secured. Because of this, there is no rim between the countertop and sink. Undermount sinks come in a wide range of materials and can be found in single and double bowl configurations.
Pros:

An undermount sink is thought to be more beautiful than a drop in sink. This is because the line of your countertop is not interrupted by the edge of the sink and instead flows much better.
Clean up is easier in undermount sinks. Any food crumbs or spills can be swept right into the sink with no obstruction in the way, such as the edge of the sink.

Cons:

Undermounts often take at least twice the time to install as self-rimming models. They are not as easy to install yourself and can often take a professional to correctly adhere the sink and ensure no leaks and a secure bond.
They also require solid materials, such as granite or solid surfacing, since the counter material is exposed. You can install undermounts with butcher block countertops, but it is extremely important that the counters are sealed – we would suggest 5 times. This is because the wood edges will be exposed to moisture on a daily basis, which can cause damage.
Undermount sinks will be more expensive typically than your drop in sink options.

Apron Front (Farm Sink) Style:

An apron front sink, also called a farm sink, has a very unique look because of its exposed front. It is a large sink that is fit into the counter top with the front edge of the sink being exposed. The farm sinks were designed to be added to a space cut out of the kitchen counter. This type of sink is traditionally quite large because it is designed to be used for multiple functions and cater to the needs of a large family, like those traditionally living on a farm.
Pros:

The look! Most people love the look of these nostalgic sinks. They are cozy and welcoming. It takes you back so a simpler time.
Very large, can easily wash pots and pans, along with other dishes all inside the sink.
Very durable.
Withstands splashes and spills
Eliminates leaning over to work over the sink – no countertop space in the middle.
If it’s damaged then the drain pipe would be removed and the entire sink could easily be replaced.

Cons:

The cost. These high style, high function sinks are often twice, if not more, than other styles.
If you don’t have a pull down faucet, it can be difficult to keep clean because it’s so large.

Vessel Style:

A vessel sink is a design that is traditionally shaped like a bowl that sits on top of your counter, or can be installed onto a drain pipe coming out from a wall! While some people think that they’re a more modern design, they are actually more traditional as they mimic the basin style sinks of the past. Of course, there are many modern takes on this traditional design. Most vessels are used in bathrooms, but they have been used in kitchens as well.
Pros:

The look. These sinks are unique, so you can guarantee that they’ll be the focal point of any bathroom. They add a bit of glamour or interest to your space.
They can save space. They can open up more countertop space, or can be installed on a very skinny base, or directly out of the wall, making them ideal for small spaces.
They are removable. You can easily switch them out with a different style.
Very easy installation, ideal for a DIY project.
Comfort. They can be adjusted to the hight of the homeowner more easily.

Cons:

The splash. They tend to get water outside of the bowl more often than other sink styles.
Extra cleaning due to both sides of the sink being exposed.
Durability can be an issue. Since both sides are exposed, they are more susceptible to chipping.
Stability can also be an issue if not installed correctly.

I hope that your questions were answered and that your decision will be easier when looking for your next kitchen or bathroom sink! If there is anything we didn’t cover in regards to sink styles, feel free to ask us in the comments!

Builders Surplus is a full service renovation company with locations in Louisville, Kentucky, and Newport, Kentucky, which also serves Cincinnati, Ohio. We are one of the top providers of kitchen sinks and bathroom sinks in the area. We specialize in interior design, kitchen design, bathroom remodel, building materials, and home improvement. Interior Design and measurements come as a free service to our clients. We sell building materials ranging in every price point, from unfinished kitchen cabinets to top of the line Wellborn cabinets. In addition to interior design, we also offer installation services. If you have any questions or would like to set up a free design consultation with one of our interior designers, we would encourage you to do so. We love sharing our knowledge with clients & potential home renovators. We write about interior design, home decor, decorating ideas, and home improvement. We hope you’ll check back in for our next article! Happy Renovation!

Written By: Allie Bloyd

October 21, 2016

Vessel Sinks: A Bathroom Space Saver

Vessel Sinks are a perfect bathroom space saver that few consider when starting a bathroom remodel.

Not only do they save space, they are unique, beautiful and functional. At Builders Surplus, Solera provides a variety of vessel sinks for your bathroom (or kitchen!) in many materials, colors and styles. We also have a variety of surplus vessel sinks in store for AMAZING prices! Here are a few ways to save space by using a vessel sink.

Vessel Sinks Open Up More Space On Your Sink Top

One of my favorite things about vessel sinks is the fact that you can take any piece of furniture, and even something unexpected, and turn it into a vanity. Because it doesn’t need to have a typical sink top (or depth needed for it), the options are endless.

Having a vessel sink on top of a countertop surface, you have room to store more on the top without worrying about water damage. You can see what I mean in the images below.

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Vessel Sinks: Thinner Than Your Average Vanity

For many people, especially those who live in condos, apartments or smaller homes, you may find yourself lacking the space you want in your bathroom. Sometimes you need to have all the necessities: shower/bath tub, sink and toilet, but don’t know how you’ll get all 3 to fit inside your space.

Typical vanities are no less than 25″ wide, which is unfortunate if that is just more space that you can give to it. Vessel sinks come in handy because they can sit on some very narrow spaces. Using vessel sinks can give you the function you need regardless of the space.

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Vessel Sinks: Embracing Unique Shapes & Spaces

Bathrooms can often be laid out in an interesting way. You may find yourself questioning the decisions of a builder a century, or even a decade ago. To be honest, not all of their choices make sense. But have no fear, the vessel sink is here! Another beautiful thing about a vessel sink is that it can easily adapt to unique shapes and spaces. Take the bathroom on the left. The only space they could use is a small corner, in which you would never find a typical vanity to fit.

But using a corner blind cabinet and a vessel sink, with a custom cut vanity top, you’ve solved the problem beautifully. My favorite of them all is the center example. If you have a wide space that needs to work for you, this is the perfect solution! Not to mention stylish, unique and unexpectedly amazing. The same would go for the barrel sink. We saw this trend in Homearama 2015, and we think it’s here to stay.

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Vessels Sinks: Counter Productive

If you’re a minimalist, it may happen that you don’t care about storage like the rest of us. To you, less is more. If that’s the case, vessel sinks are right up your alley. They give you the ability to have the counter space that you need, without anything in between! Maybe you need to store larger items under the sink space, and cabinets won’t really work for you. This is another great solution.

It can also make your space feel larger, which is something that most people are looking for when they set out to do a bathroom remodel, or when they’re searching for a bathroom space saver. It also allows you to create unique countertop shapes and use unique materials as well.

Vessel Sinks Will Have You Floatin’ On Air

Vessel sinks are the ultimate bathroom space saver when you consider the fact that no vanity is required! You can create your own storage elsewhere, or forgo it altogether, replacing it with this simple and functional piece of plumbing.

Glass vessel sinks are like pieces of art, especially when standing alone and becoming the focal point of your new bathroom remodel. There are many different materials to choose from when deciding on vessel sinks, but glass is a very popular choice.

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When looking for a bathroom space saver solution, look no further than vessel sinks. These are beautiful, functional and can fit virtually any space or style. You can order Solera sinks from Builders Surplus, with a vast amount of vessel sinks to choose from. Click here to shop our vessel sink selection by Solera!

Builders Surplus is a full service renovation company with locations in Louisville, Kentucky, and Newport, Kentucky, which also serves Cincinnati, Ohio. We specialize in interior design, kitchen design, bathroom remodel, building materials, and home improvement. Interior Design and measurements come as a free service to our clients. We sell building materials ranging in every price point, from unfinished kitchen cabinets to top of the line Wellborn cabinets. In addition to interior design, we also offer installation services. If you have any questions or would like to set up a free design consultation with one of our interior designers, we would encourage you to do so. We love sharing our knowledge with clients & potential home renovators. We write about interior design, home decor, decorating ideas, and home improvement. We hope you’ll check back in for our next article! Happy Renovation!

Written By: Allie Bloyd

May 15, 2016

Copper Sinks: The Essential Starter Guide

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Copper Sinks – when you say copper sinks you might think of an old brown and green bowl sitting on a vanity in the old west before there was plumbing; however, copper sinks today are much different than they were way back when, they are a beautiful statement piece to any kitchen design or bathroom remodel. They’re link shiny red-brown chameleons – constantly changing and always stunning to look at and watch change over time. There are many reasons why you might want to add a copper sink to your kitchen design or bathroom remodel; it could be their unique and diverse style or their ability to be antimicrobial. Whatever the reason for your consideration of a copper sink, there is no denying that it will be the talking point of your guests around the dining room table.

Properties of Copper Sinks

Copper sinks are as unique as they come, in both style and function. When seeking copper sinks you should look for sinks that are 99% pure copper, preferably with that remaining 1% being zinc, which will add to it’s strength. Do be warned that when ordering copper sinks from China, India, or the Middle East as lead can be used as a filler because it has similar workability to copper and is inexpensive. Lead is also harmful to humans – so be cautious when ordering outside of the United States.
Copper is an extremely soft metal which means that it can be shaped and hammered into different designs to turn an average bowl into a stunning masterpiece!

Copper Sinks: Mount & Style

Like any other sink, copper sinks also come in a variety of styles and mounts. They can be unadorned or extremely elaborate – it all just depends on what you’re looking for and what you’re willing to spend. Sink mounts refer to how the sink is installed and will look on the countertop, while style generally refers to the finish of the product.

Decorative, Farmhouse

Decorative sinks tend to be more ornate and have intricate designs either hammered or stamped into the metal. They are extremely elegant and with the reactive and changing nature of copper sinks they will always look a little different the next copper sink! Farmhouse, is the kind of mount, and is not unique to copper sinks. Farmhouse mounted sink are also called an apron mount where the front of the sink is exposed or overhangs from the the cabinets below it. Farmhouse is a great look and feel to go for with more country, or traditional style kitchens. Now, just because these two are listed together doesn’t mean that’s how all copper sinks are. You can most certainly get a decorative sink with a different mount or just a plain farmhouse mount with no decoration.

Hammered, Drop In

Hammered sinks are less ornate than more decorative style sinks, however they’re more unique than plain or brushed finish copper sinks. Hammered sinks give a faceted look to a shiny sink that has little patina to it, like you’re washing dishes in an amber bowl. When your sink has a more patina’d look to it, it makes the bowl appear more rustic and handmade – craftsmanship like. Drop In sinks are more common because their weight is what largely keeps them in place on the counter top, and thus are really easy to install.

Brushed, Under Mount

A copper sink – with little else to it will be eye catching, so if you’re wanting something more simple than what else can be seen on here then looking towards a brushed finish is a simple and understated, yet still elegant solution. Under mount sinks are beautiful because the countertop sits directly above them, giving the space a more modern and seamless look.

Hammered Finish Under Mount Sinks

Finished, Vessel

There are different kinds of finishes, the kind that I am referencing here are copper sinks that have something other than a wax or sealant to finish them, such as glass or acrylic. The bonus to this is that the copper will stay in all it’s original, shiny, beautiful, glory – if you can’t stand slight inconsistencies or change in your sink finish then this is the way to go! A vessel mount sink appears to be a simple bowl sitting atop your vanity or countertop. These are decorative of themselves and make great statement pieces without needing any kind of finish! Vessel sinks come in many different shapes and styles. If you want a unique looking sink that goes beyond just copper, vessel sinks are as unique and as out there as you can get!

Pros & Cons of Copper Sinks

Everything in this world has its ups and downs. When it comes to sinks it just depends on what you want, and how much you can spend. If antimicrobial properties are important to you then you’re only bet is copper.

Pros:

They’re beautiful: It’s that simple. Copper sinks are some of the most beautiful and unique! The fact that they’re made from one sheet with no seams also makes them like works of art. They can be hammered and shaped to almost any dimension. Copper sinks do form a patina as they’re exposed to water and air, so if you love the original color you can have it coated to preserve it’s beauty. If you like their reactivity, the ever changing color and patina of copper sinks are just a bonus to their beauty. This goes beyond copper sinks being beautiful, they literally have countless combinations of finish and style. Some look like regular sinks and others look like works of art!
They’re antimicrobial: This unique property of copper sinks makes them favorable for kitchens, while bacteria can live on many sinks surfaces for weeks at a time, bacteria on copper sinks can only last a matter of hours. However, the EPA states that you shouldn’t coat (paint, lacquer, varnish, wax, etc.) your copper sinks if you wish to keep the antimicrobial nature if the metal.
Copper is 100% recyclable: Copper retains 95% of it’s original value when being sold after recycling. In fact, it’s likely that the copper sink that you’re getting is already made from previously recycled copper.
They’re durable: Depending on the gauge (thickness) of copper that your sink comes in will definitely affect its durability, the thicker the copper the less likely to dent it will be. Copper sinks are resistant to corrosion and rust, making it an ideal choice for a sink material.

Cons:

They’re highly reactive: If you want your copper sinks to maintain their color you’ll need to coat them – which will rid of you of the antimicrobial properties of the metal as well. Acidic foods and drinks, abrasive cleaners, and extremely hot or cold cookware can change the color of your sink, darkening it and leaving odd colored spots. Granted, as the patina darkens everything will become more uniform as time progresses. However, unless they’re sealed periodically it is extremely hard to maintain a copper sinks original shine.
They’re expensive: More than just being an expensive choice for a sink, they’re also expensive to repair. Copper is a very soft and malleable metal, so it can be easily dented and warped, meaning that you’ll likely need to repair it more often than other sink materials. Keep in mind that thinner gauge copper sinks will dent more easily than thicker gauge copper sinks.
They need more maintenance: To keep it’s shine and finish in tact for as long as possible you should dry the sink with a soft towel after every use and you should be careful with what products you use to clean it as some more acidic cleaners can discolor your sink. Warm water and gentle soap is usually all it takes.

When all is said and done choosing the right sink for you is up to you, however, we hope, that in considering copper sinks for your next kitchen design or bathroom remodel that we’ve provided you with the necessary information to decide if a copper sink is right for your home and family! They’re stunning and unique pieces with equally unique properties that make them ideal in any kitchen! Now that you know something about copper sinks, if you think that you’re ready to shop around you can view our copper sink selection on our website!

January 22, 2016

Birch White 6-in x 24-in Glazed Porcelain Wood Look Floor and Wall Tile

9″ x 60″ Runsmill Isle Luxury Vinyl Flooring Cyrus XL 5MM – 12MIL

7″ x 48″ Akadia Cyrus Luxury Vinyl Flooring 5MM – 12MIL

720 Cherry Java

750 Cherry Java

Kerdi Shower Tray 48″ x 48″ Center Drain

Kerdi Shower Tray 38″ x 60″ Center Drain

Handmade 16 Gauge Stainless Steel Farmhouse Kitchen Sink 33” x 21” with Micro Radius Corners | PL-HA128 R15

Handmade 16 Gauge Stainless Steel Farmhouse Kitchen Sink 32 7/8” x 20 3/4” | PL-HA122 R15

White Porcelain Farmhouse Kitchen Sink 33” x 19 1/2” PL-4060

Bathroom Sink Options For Small Spaces

Pedestal Bathroom Sink

Wall mounted bathroom sinks

Bathroom Sink Options for Larger Spaces: ( good for family or master baths)

Top Mount Bathroom Sink

Undermount Sink

All-in-one sink and countertop

Vessel Sink

Semi-recessed sink

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Drop In Style:

Undermount Style:

Apron Front (Farm Sink) Style:

Vessel Style:

Vessel Sinks Open Up More Space On Your Sink Top

Vessel Sinks: Thinner Than Your Average Vanity

Vessel Sinks: Embracing Unique Shapes & Spaces

Vessels Sinks: Counter Productive

Vessel Sinks Will Have You Floatin’ On Air

Properties of Copper Sinks