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Maybe you're remodeling your bathroom, building a new one, or even just looking for an element of change. Finding the right sink and faucet to fit your style, budget and function does not have to be complicated. First, take a look at your bathroom. Is it large or small? The size of your bathroom will help you determine what type of sink will work best for you. Sinks come in a variety of shapes, sizes and materials. Choose from vitreous china, glass, metal and wood to create the mood in your bathroom. Vitreous china is made of ceramic clay fired at high temperatures, resulting in a nonporous surface. Glass is durable, but it can scratch, so be careful when cleaning. Metal sinks are becoming more popular, especially in bronze and copper. The most expensive material for a sink is wood, because of the construction. A drop-in, or self-rimming sink fits into a hole cut into the countertop. It is the easiest type of sink to install. The undermount sink sits underneath the countertop for a smooth and seamless look. Wall-mount sinks attach to the wall and the pipes can be installed inside the wall or covered up if you don't want to look at the plumbing. Vessels sit on top of the counter and require wall mount faucets. With an integral sink, the basin and countertop are one unit. If you have a small bathroom, you may want to look at a pedestal sink, which consists of a bowl that sits on top of a narrow column. Pedestal sinks don't have any room for storage, so make sure you have space to store your towels and toiletries. Another option for a diminutive bathroom is the corner wall mount sink, which is available with or without a console. Wall mount sinks also work well for bathrooms that aren't very large, because they don't take up any floor space. Faucets are very important to consider when you are purchasing your sink. The configuration of your faucet will affect which type of sink you choose. The single-hole, or single-lever faucet combines the spout and the handle or handles into one fitting and requires only one hole be drilled. A widespread faucet has three separate parts -- the spout and two handles, and has a standard spread of at least eight inches. The mini-widespread faucet has a standard spread of four inches. Wall mounted faucets require a longer spout in order to reach sinks that sit above the counter as well as freestanding sinks. Whether your style is traditional or modern, there is a faucet to fit your decor. If your bathroom has an antique theme, try a faucet that has a vintage look, in classic finishes. For decor that is modern, choose a faucet with sleeker shapes in polished chrome, polished brass or brushed nickel . Match your faucets with your tub and shower for a complete ensemble.
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