What we’ll cover…
- Preparation steps: Removal of the old basin and the gathering of necessary tools.
- Positioning the new unit: Measurements and markings of the installation area.
- Installation process: Plumbing alignment, securing and connection.
- Sealing and testing: Ensuring a watertight fit and checking for leaks.
- Finishing touches: Tips surrounding maintenance and any final adjustments.
Bathroom vanity unit installation advice
Bathroom renovations can instantly elevate the aesthetic and functionality of your space, and one of the most impactful changes you can make is installing a new vanity unit.
Available in an array of designs and sizes, vanity units are the ultimate solution for organised storage of your toiletries and beauty essentials.
However, the installation process can seem daunting. But fret not; this comprehensive guide offers you step-by-step instructions to make the task a breeze.
Why vanity units are a must-have for your bathroom
Before diving into the installation steps, it’s essential to recognize the unbeatable benefits of vanity units.
These versatile pieces of bathroom furniture can accommodate any bathroom size—be it a sprawling master bath or a cosy powder room.
By combining a sink and storage, they make optimal use of space while adding a dash of style.
A bathroom vanity unit serves a dual purpose: it melds a basin with ample storage space, providing both elegance and functionality.
These units can effortlessly adapt to your spatial constraints and design preferences, offering both wall-mounted and floor-standing options.
With a diverse collection of colours, finishes, and styles, vanity units are an indispensable addition to any bathroom setting.
They can also be customised to meet your specific needs.
From selecting drawers over cabinets to opting for a double sink or even integrating it with a toilet, the choices are many and varied.
They serve as an exceptional solution for stashing away toiletries and maintaining a clutter-free bathroom ambience.
Preparation steps – Getting ready for installation
Before you get your hands dirty, ensure that the water supply is turned off.
Disconnect the water lines from the hot and cold valves, as well as the basin waste system.
Only then should you proceed to remove the existing sink.
Step 1 – Dismantling the Old Sink
The removal process hinges on how the sink is fixed to the wall—it could either be screwed in or adhered with sealant.
If it’s screwed, simply unscrew and lift it away from the wall.
On the other hand, if it’s secured with sealant, you can use a sealant remover or apply heat using a heat gun.
Once the sealant becomes pliable, use a knife to slice it away. Then, gently pull the sink off the wall.
Step 2: Mapping the vanity unit’s location
Once the old sink is out of the way, it’s time to determine the most suitable position for your vanity unit.
Measure the unit and use a pencil to lightly mark its edges on the wall. This will help you avoid mounting it too high or too low.
Some vanity units come with an open back for easy pipework installation, while others have a closed back.
If your unit falls into the latter category, you’ll need to make the necessary cuts to accommodate the pipes.
Step 3: Mounting the vanity unit
Before you get to drilling, confirm that your markings are level.
Once sure, place the vanity unit against the wall to check the alignment between the pipes and the cutouts at the back of the unit.
Identify the wall studs and drill into them.
Screw the vanity unit securely to the wall. Use a spirit level to guarantee that it is perfectly level.
Step 4: Installing the basin
Prioritise installing the tap and waste system before fitting the basin onto the vanity unit.
Once that’s done, align the basin with the vanity unit and apply silicone sealant to seal the gap between them.
This watertight seal will protect your unit from water damage over time.
Allow the silicone sealant approximately 24 hours to set.
Also, apply sealant between the wall and the vanity unit to ensure a water-tight installation.
Step 5: Checking for leaks
Before you call it a job well done, it’s crucial to run a leak test.
Turn the water supply back on and let the tap run for a few minutes.
Check all the connections carefully.
If everything holds up and there are no leaks, you’ve successfully upgraded your bathroom with a stylish and functional vanity unit.
Keep in mind
Remember not to place any heavy objects on the unit while the silicone sealant is setting.
There you have it—a foolproof, detailed guide on installing a vanity unit in your bathroom, enriching both its functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Good luck and happy vanity unit-ing!
Additional tips for a flawless vanity unit installation
Installing taps the right way
When it comes to installing taps, you’ll want to get it right the first time.
To install your tap, lower it into the designated hole in the basin, ensuring it’s at a 90-degree angle.
Secure it from underneath using the provided nut.
If your design includes separate hot and cold taps, remember that the hot water tap traditionally goes on the left.
For the final connection to the plumbing, you might want to consult a professional to ensure everything is done correctly.
You can also visit our guide to installing basin taps for additoonal advice and know how.
The importance of quality sealant
Don’t underestimate the importance of using quality sealant.
This is your first line of defence against water damage, making it crucial for the longevity of your vanity unit.
Most hardware stores and specialty shops offer a variety of sealants, each formulated for specific applications.
Make sure to pick one that’s appropriate for bathroom fixtures.
Post installation care and maintenance
Once you’ve successfully installed your bathroom vanity unit, regular maintenance is key to ensuring it stays as good as new.
Make it a routine to clean the basin and storage unit with gentle cleaners to avoid discoloration or damage.
Also, regularly inspect the sealant and plumbing connections to catch any potential issues before they escalate.
Understand your vanity units ROI
Beyond the aesthetic and functional benefits, a well-chosen vanity unit can also enhance the value of your property.
It’s a long-term investment that pays off not just in immediate utility but also in elevating the overall worth of your home.
Therefore, when selecting a vanity unit, consider it as an investment in your property’s future.
FAQs: Your vanity unit questions answered
1. Can I install a vanity unit myself?
Absolutely. With the right tools and a bit of time – and the help of this guide – installing a vanity unit can be a rewarding DIY project.
2. Do vanity units come with a warranty?
Yes, most quality vanity units come with a manufacturer’s warranty, offering peace of mind along with a beautiful bathroom.
3. What types of finishes are available?
You’ll find vanity units in a plethora of finishes, from classic wood grains to ultra-modern glossy whites and blacks, to blues and greys and classic period-look white and ivory.
Final Thoughts: Transform Your Bathroom with a Vanity Unit
Installing a bathroom vanity unit is about more than just adding a new fixture.
It’s about revamping the whole look and feel of your bathroom.
With the detailed guidance provided in this article, you’re set to make a choice that blends seamlessly with your existing décor while adding significant functional value.
A well-chosen vanity unit can truly make your bathroom complete, serving as the cornerstone of a room that often serves as a sanctuary in the home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Freestanding bathroom vanity units can be fit to a floating floor.
This type of bathroom vanity unit will need to be fixed to the flooring first, however a laminate will be unable to float beneath a bathroom cabinet or vanity model. First, the cabinet will have to be installed, surrounded by a finishing moulding at the edges to fill the expansion gap.
Our Buyer’s Guide To Bathroom Vanity Units offers a more detailed insight into that style of bathroom furniture, and how specific types are best suited to particular layouts.
It is not essential to tile behind a wall hung bathroom vanity unit, but it is possible to do if that lines up with your personal preferences.
Many would-be renovators will prefer to begin upgrading their bathroom by first tiling the wall before adding a bathroom vanity unit to complete the look. This is the best approach to take if you are tiling behind the bathroom furniture, as it will not require you to proceed with invasive removal and re-attachment work in future.
If you would like a more detailed insight into all sorts of bathroom vanity design features, take a look at our Buyer’s Guide To Bathroom Vanity Units.
The typical comfort height for the positioning of a floating bathroom vanity unit can be anything between 25-30 inches from the floor, or 635 to 760mm.
Usually, vanities positioned on the lower side of this scale will feature a vessel sink, which will generally add on five or six inches atop.
If you would like any more information regarding the design nuances of floating bathroom vanities and all other styles, take a look at our Buyer’s Guide To Bathroom Vanity Units.
The standard height for bathroom vanity units would tend to be between 760mm and 815mm, or 30 and 32 inches.
However, with regards to modern bathroom vanities, a common design trend points towards taller models, around the 915mm or 36-inch range – the typical height of a kitchen countertop.
For a closer look into all sorts of bathroom vanity unit design aspects, take a look at our Buyer’s Guide To Bathroom Vanity Units.
John trained in journalism before joining the Big Bathroom Shop team. His exceptional journalism skills (and modesty) allow him to meticulously research bathroom topics and bring you the very latest news and views on all things bath and shower related. He’s a dab hand at Scrabble and is currently undertaking a domestic plumbing course to be sure he actually does know what he’s talking about!
