How to select bathroom vanity tops

Bathroom vanity tops enhance user experience by providing space for storage, placing decorative items and adding a touch of style to your bathroom. Since bathroom vanity tops have the option of being custom made to suit your specific requirements, they can make selection even more difficult. Keep these issues in mind when you select a bathroom vanity top.

Nature of use

Think about the way in which your bathroom is being used – whether it is a frequently used family bathroom, serving several members or one which is attached to your master bedroom and used less often. Vanity tops in bathrooms will require greater durability whereas more delicate choices can be reserved for a powder room. Moreover, consider your lifestyle and bathroom routine in using the vanity top. Some people like a range of toiletries, hairdryers and towels at hand and this should guide the amount of counter-top surface required.

Existing bathroom conditions

The vanity top needs to work in tandem with various aspects of the bathroom. It will need to accommodate the basin, need access to electrical points, relate favourably to the mirror and complement the bathroom style. Assess the bathroom layout, existing configuration of sanitary fittings, plumbing arrangement, electrical layout, any existing cabinets and mirror arrangement which need to be retained. Make a sketch of these conditions with notes on materials used for flooring, tile dado and colours of sanitary fittings. Use this record to ensure that the proposed vanity top is in synchronisation with the bathroom in both functional and aesthetic aspects. Besides, decide whether you would like the basin to be above counter-top or under it.

Materials

The appearance of the vanity top is determined by its material. The material choice will affect the price, decor and maintenance aspects of the vanity top. Usually, material choices take into consideration the basin unit material and sometimes use the same. Moulded units are also available. Stones like marble bring a soft elegance to the bathroom, while granite tops have excellent durability and can improve the home value. Onyx is a popular material, because it can be backlit to create a beautiful luminous effect. In case you have stone flooring, a similar bathroom counter will be a good style extension. Plastic, ceramic and tiles are cheaper options but not as durable as stone. Stainless steel and glass are contemporary choices. However, a glass bathroom vanity top will tend to show fingerprints. Keep the bathroom design scheme in mind as you decide the material. Always keep your bathroom conditions in mind and assess both utilitarian and decorative aspects of the vanity top.