There are a lot of different questions people have when it comes to learning about and choosing the right bathroom vanities. In order to help you with your decision, we’ve gathered eight of the most common questions and answers below. Remember to keep your own personal tastes and needs in mind when shopping for the right vanity. What works for someone else might not fit your style or your needs.
Check out the Q&A below and use the information to help you get the most out of your bathroom vanity purchase or upgrade.
118 Inch Double Sink Bathroom Vanity with Makeup Table and Electrical Component
- Is it cheaper to build a vanity or buy one?
- How much should I spend on a bathroom vanity?
- How much does it cost to install a new bathroom vanity?
- What is the most popular bathroom vanity color?
- What is the best material for a bathroom vanity unit?
- What are common bathroom vanity sizes?
- Does a bathroom vanity have to be flush with the wall?
- How long do bathroom cabinets last?
Is it cheaper to build a vanity or buy one?
It is typically cheaper to buy a vanity that is pre-made because all of the combined parts cost more to source and construct than most people anticipate. After all, you’re not just talking about the wood or MDF cabinet. You also have to factor in doors and drawers, plumbing access, hardware, the counter and sink, etc.
Built vanities are usually custom models. If you are handy with wood or similar materials, you could build your own bathroom vanity for the cost of the materials, but you’d have to make sure that you choose materials that are good for a bathroom or include sealing procedures to keep the vanity protected. It’s usually easier and more affordable to just buy one and have it installed.
Related: How Long Should A Bathroom Remodel Take?
40 Inch Single Sink Espresso Bathroom Vanity with Travertine
How much should I spend on a bathroom vanity?
No one can tell you exactly what to spend on your bathroom vanity. You can find some models as cheap as $100 to $150, or premium double vanities that cost as much as $1,000 or more. Custom vanities can cost as much as $4,000. You shouldn’t spend more than you can afford. Factor this expense into your remodeling budget and give yourself a little leeway. The good news is that with the selection available today, everyone can find a great vanity that fits their style and their budget.
48 Inch Single Sink Bathroom Vanity with Choice of Top
How much does it cost to install a new bathroom vanity?
If you pay a handyman or bathroom remodeler to install your bathroom vanity, you can expect to spend between $45 and $100 per hour for labor in addition to the cost of materials. If you choose DIY installation, it will only cost you the price of the vanity and any plumbing or hardware accessories you need.
Some people can install a new bathroom vanity for less than $100, while others may spend upwards of $5,000 or more for a high-end vanity and professional installation. It all depends on size, style, and how much installation labor is needed. If you have to hire a plumber to do any work, expect to add $45 to $200 per hour to the project cost.
Related: How To Install A Freestanding Bathroom Vanity
95 Inch Traditional Double Bathroom Vanity with Travertine
What is the most popular bathroom vanity color?
Right now, colors are in. Cool colors, especially, like blues and grays, are getting a lot of notice. Navy blue to baby blue and every shade in between—they’re easy to find and making the top of a lot of design lists. Of course, white and wood vanities are still popular, as well. It all depends on the atmosphere that you are trying to create, the other colors used in the bathroom space, and ultimately, what you like best.
Dark wood tones and earth tones offer that natural look to bring color but still feel calm and serene. In a bathroom, this is an essential feature to have. Another popular color trend is choosing counters that contrast the color of the vanity to create even more depth and dimension in the design.
Related: Trending Yet Timeless Blue Bathroom Vanities For Calm, Serene Style
60 Inch Double Sink Bathroom Vanity in Navy Blue
What is the best material for a bathroom vanity unit?
Ultimately, the best material for a bathroom vanity is whatever works for the space in question. Some people can install simple MDF or particle board vanities with little issue. Others need to choose more durable or water-resistant materials like wood or rubber wood. Rubber wood is from the rubber tree, and offers the strength of oak with a much more eco-friendly product.
Today, you have a lot of options for a bathroom vanity. If you do choose a cheaper material, you should consider adding a sealant or protective coating to keep the wood from becoming damaged by humidity and water over time. Most experts recommend plywood or solid wood for premium durability and longevity.
Related: Remodeling A Bathroom On A Budget: Where Should You Focus Your Money?
48 Inch Single Sink Bathroom Vanity with Choice of Top
What are common bathroom vanity sizes?
The most common single-sink vanity sizes are 24”, 30”, 36”, and 48” models. For double-sink vanities, most people choose something 48” or larger, with 60” and 72” being the most common sizes that people choose. This, of course, is referring to the width. Standard bathroom vanity height ranges from 32-36” but can vary depending on the needs of the people living in the home.
Does a bathroom vanity have to be flush with the wall?
Bathroom vanities should be flush with, and secured to, the wall where the plumbing comes out. There isn’t much exception to this rule, unless you’re dealing with a large bathroom where a vanity cabinet is installed more like an island, or if perhaps the vanity is installed against a glass shower wall instead of a traditional wall. In these instances, instead of bracing the cabinet to the wall, the vanity should be secured to the floor.
73 Inch Double Vessel Sink Bathroom Vanity with Travertine
How long do bathroom cabinets last?
The bathroom vanity can last up to 50 years or more if it is made of the best materials and properly maintained. Even wood used in bathroom vanities is designed for use in the bathroom, able to resist moisture damage and humidity. Painted vanities may need repainting from time to time, but with regular cleaning and upkeep, a vanity cabinet will usually outlast most other fixtures in the home.
Choosing the right vanity cabinet is all about creating a space that you love, and that functions well for you. Now that you know more about bathroom vanities and their role in that, you’ll have an easier time choosing the best vanity for your space.
Related: The Hottest Gray Bathroom Vanities
68 Inch Modern Double Bathroom Vanity with a Carrara White Marble Counter Top
