Although bathrooms quickly become outdated, it is neither cost-effective nor practical to completely renovate them every few years. Instead, you can improve the appearance of your bathroom with a few simple changes, such as installing a new bathroom vanity or updating your cabinetry. In order to save money, many homeowners are opting to do it themselves and install vanities and other bathroom fixtures. Here are four pointers for installing a new bathroom vanity:
1) Consider Your Needs
Take some time before purchasing a new bathroom vanity to plan out your installation. Why did you throw away your old vanity? Was there a lack of counter space? Were you looking for an extra drawer? Once you’ve decided on the type of vanity you want, measure the available space. Take your time and measure the area carefully; measure twice or three times to ensure your measurements were correct the first time. Although bathroom vanities can be purchased online, many homeowners prefer to visit showrooms where they can touch and feel the items to get a true sense of how they will look in their bathroom.
2) Don’t Forget About Plumbing
Although you can convert a pedestal sink to a vanity, keep in mind that you will most likely need to redo the plumbing within the wall to make it work. If you have to make any adjustments at all to the plumbing, you’ll probably have to rely on the services of a professional, which can blow your budget out of the water. Before you can install most countertops, you’ll need to install faucets and water lines to the sink. After you’ve installed the water lines, faucets, and drains, run a line of silicone caulk around the edge of the countertop and secure it in place.
3) Make It Easy on Yourself
When you’re ready to install your vanity, start by making your life easier. Remove all drawers and mirrors, as well as the doors, and do not attempt to install the vanity with the sink top attached. (Note: Before removing doors or sinks, always check the manufacturer’s installation instructions.) Align the new vanity with the wall and mark the locations of the pipe and drill holes. To ensure easy installation, make the holes at least 1/2″ larger than the pipes. Mark the location of a stud on the wall and the same location on the inside of your cabinet. Now you can slide the vanity into place, thread the pipes through the holes, and secure your vanity.
4) Keep Things Leveled & Secure
You can start leveling the cabinet now that your vanity is ready to be attached and has been pushed against the wall. To ensure the vanity sits evenly, use a level to measure from wall to wall. If you need help permanently balancing the vanity, place a few wooden shims under the base. Once your vanity is level, use a few screws to secure it to the wall. Many professionals advise using at least three 1-1 1/2″ screws per wall stud.
