Basic Sink Styles

Manufacturers have released a myriad different design and this has afforded consumers the choice of either an aesthetic style or a practical style.

But even with this, there are a lot of basic styles for sinks and they all have advantages and disadvantages.

Pedestal Sink

These sinks have a semblance to birdbaths in appearance. They have two parts: one part is mounted on the wall and the other is the pedestal attached to the ground on which the pedestal sits. There is an opening at the back of the pedestal for the drainpipe and the supply lines to be fitted.

Advantages

• This is a good choice for something attractive and functional especially in small spaces without room for cabinets.
• Provided there is space for storage some place else, the unique design of a pedestal sink can improve the aesthetics of a medium or small sized bathroom.

Disadvantages

• The sink is fixed to the wall.
• The implication of this is that some blocking will have to be done behind the wall.
• There usually isn't space or storage since pedestal sinks have no counters, cabinets or shelves.

Basic Sink Styles: Wall Mount

These are sinks that are fitted to the wall and have no covering underneath. There are some that have shrouds which cover the plumbing right to the wall.

They are known as semi-pedestal sinks.

Advantages

• These types can be installed in any kind of space regardless of how small.
• This is the only sink style that doesn't take up space on the floor.
• The space underneath this sink type gives room for wheelchair access.

Disadvantages

• Just as it is done with the pedestal sink, blocking may have to be installed in the wall.
• It doesn't come with storage space.

Drop-In Sink

Also called semi-rimming sinks, drop-in sinks are usually fit in a hole made for it on the counter.

The rim fits just on the hole's edges and is sealed in place with a sealant such as silicone caulk which is waterproof.

Advantages

• Finishing isn't necessary on the cutout of the counter because the sink will cover it.
• The water supplies and plumbing are hidden by the vanity cabinet.

Disadvantages

• Because of the rim of the sink, water cannot be wiped from the counter into the sink.
• These sinks are not or aesthetics. They are more functional.

Vessel Sink

Vessel sinks are the types that are placed on top of the vanity. They are not shielded or attached to anything on all sides. This makes them more of aesthetic pieces than functional.

There are no faucet holes on vessel sinks hence, the need or fixtures to be mounted either on the counter or the wall.

Advantages

• Regardless of the materials they are made of, they are usually aesthetically pleasing.
• The hole made on the countertop is usually small and this leaves more materials and makes the sink and countertop complementary to the eyes.

Disadvantages

• While vessel sinks made with vitreous china may be sold at $200 or less, the ones made from materials other than vitreous china may be sold at thousands of dollars.
• There might be need for these sinks to be coupled with a vanity with a height that is less than usual because it sits on top of the vanity instead of inside it.