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Glossary of Bathroom Terms and Definitions

A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z

A

Acrylic Composite:  Acrylic is an artificial fiber made from a special group of vinyl compounds.  Acrylic is non-porous, similar to glass, low in density, and easily formed into vanity tops, sinks and showers. Acrylic is easy to clean, and because it’s non-porous, resists stains and mildew. Acrylics can be reinforced with a mesh fabric similar to fiberglass matting to increase structural integrity.

Alder:  Solid Alder has become one of the most desired wood species for building cabinets and furniture because of its price and physical characteristics.  Solid Alder tends to have a lot of knots and natural defects that people like because of its added character.  Alder is naturally medium brown in color and is a relatively easy wood to work with because of its tight grain.

Aluminum:  Aluminum is a relatively soft lightweight metal, malleable, and silver in color; found in many products such as electrical wire, soda cans, and car parts.

Antler Chandelier:  Antler lighting is a term applied to any type of light fixture manufactured with antlers. Deer antlers are used to add flair, or to create the entire body of the light fixture in some cases. This type of lighting is primarily found in hunting lodges and homes with a Colorado or mountain style decor, but they can be used in any home, in reality. You can add smaller fixtures and lamps to individual rooms to create your own mountain hideaway, even if you live in the big city, or closer to the beach than the mountains you love.

Apron Front Sink:  An apron front sink is a rather large sink that has an exposed sink and protrudes slightly from the cabinet.

Ash:  Ash has a very heavy grain pattern and is sometimes very wild in appearance.   Ash is a stable hard wood that is used for cabinetry and furniture. It is close in appearance to Oak so many people like the look and may not even tell the difference.

B

Backsplash:  A backsplash is a piece of stone or tiles in example behind a sink or stove that is meant to protect the wall from moisture.

Bamboo:  Bamboo is an organic plant or tree that grows tall and straight in warm climates and is hollow inside; when cut it hardens and can be made into veneers for use in furniture and flooring.  Bamboo is light tan in color when dry, with a straight grain and evident growth rings.  All hardwoods have been Kiln dried to ensure a stable product that will not expand, contract, or warp.

Banana Bark:  Banana Bark is the bark from the fruit bearing banana plant, which because of its height, is often mistaken for a tree. It is a substitute wood product, similar to plywood in its strength and durability.

Basalt:  Basalt is a dark, dense volcanic rock that can often have a glassy appearance.
Basalt (Honed):  Honed Basalt is a dark, dense volcanic rock that can often have a glassy appearance.  Honed is a process of filling and polishing natural voids in stone to create a smooth surface.

Beveled:  Beveled is used to describe the edge to either a countertop or a mirror.  It is cut with a sloped edge rather than straight.

Birch:  Birch is a tree that is found all over the country and can be recognized by its white bark.  It is similar to the Aspen species.  Birch lumber for solid stock is a smooth tight grained wood, usually light with a hint of red in its natural color.  It’s very smooth and is a great choice for cabinet building, both painted and stained.

Brass:  Brass is an alloy or mixture of copper and zinc, yellow or gold in color and relatively heavy.  Used in plumbing fixtures and parts because of it resistance to corrosion.  Brass tends to be found in more formal or traditional design.  Brass can be antiqued or unpolished.  Actual color may vary slightly due to different computer monitor display settings.  UniqueVanities.com cannot guarantee that finishes between manufacturers will match.

Brushed Nickel:  Brushed Nickel is a matted silver color, is found in more contemporary designs, and is easy to care for.  Brushed Nickel is considered warmer than chrome finish.  Actual color may vary slightly due to different computer monitor display settings.  UniqueVanities.com cannot guarantee that finishes between manufacturers will match.

Buffet Lamp:  Buffet lamps are a taller version of a table lamp.  Not quite as tall as a floor lamp as they are meant to sit on a table.  You may see buffet lamps on a buffet table, they are meant to direct the light downwards.

Burlap:  Burlap is a dense fabric woven generally from fibers from the jute or sisal plant. Its durability and strength have made it available for a number of uses.

C

Cast Iron:  Iron is a hard ferrous metal.  It is made by the same refinement process as steel but is left with more impurities.  Iron is used in building structures and anywhere large heavy loads are in need of support. Cast Iron is heated to a liquid form and poured into a mould to achieve the desired form or shape.

Ceiling Mount:  Ceiling mount pertains to a light fixture that is mounted on the ceiling.

Ceramic:  Ceramic is an inorganic, nonmetallic solid similar to clay that is hardened by the action of heat and subsequent cooling.  Ceramics are found in domestic, industrial and building products, and can be glazed and fired to create a colored smooth surface.  Ceramic is easy to maintain, though it can be scratched or chipped if not cared for.

Chandelier:  A chandelier is a light fixture that hangs down from the ceiling that is large and has branches for holding multiple light bulbs.  You most often see chandeliers in dining rooms over the dining table.

Cherry Wood:  Cherry wood is an American hardwood with a fine distinct grain that when raw, varies from brownish to reddish in color.   Adding stain gives a more consistent look.

Cheval Mirror:  A cheval mirror is a standing full length mirror.  Generally is mounted on a bracket stand rather than being hung on the wall.

Chinese Elm:  Chinese elm is one of the softer hardwoods that is commonly used for veneers and frame work of furniture. Due to its fast growth rate it can be harvested and regrown quickly making it readily available.

Chrome:  Chrome is a classic finish that is shiny silver, works well in many styles, especially modern design.  Chrome requires little maintenance.  Actual color may vary slightly due to different computer monitor display settings.  UniqueVanities.com cannot guarantee that finishes between manufacturers will match.

Coconut Bark:  Coconut Bark is the bark from the fruit bearing coconut palm tree found in most tropical areas. Both this and coconut lumber are being utilized more and more frequently to replace endangered hardwoods.

Coconut Stick:  Coconut Stick is formed by slivers of coconut bark being glued together and attached to an item for a decorative purpose. It composition ensures that no two items are alike.

Composite Panels:  Composite panels can be made up of several different materials such as wood, wheat, or plastic fibers.  Mixed together with resin and glue, the composite is then pressed together to form into sheet goods.  Composite panels can have a smooth outer layer to make them ideal for painting.

Concrete:  Made using a light weight proprietary concrete mix made exclusively of natural materials with RoHS II toxin free certification. Fewer fillers in the mix for greater durability, including Shock, Chip and Scratch Resistance.

Copper:  Copper is a soft metal, orange brown in color, sometimes use to overlay a wood sub top or substrate to make a rigid surface.  Copper is bright when new and or finished over with a protective coating but when raw will tarnish to a dark green.  Copper can be found in many different items from electrical wire to currency, bathroom or kitchen sinks. Copper has a natural quality to kill bacteria so your sink will be free of germs and look good for a long time. It is easily cared for but can also be scratched or dented if you don’t use the proper cleaning methods.  Copper is usually a bright brownish yellow when new and will age or patina to a darker brown with time.

Cork:  Cork is commonly used in wine stoppers.  It is a natural product that comes from a tree and can be made into many other things like flooring and tack boards.

Corner Vanity:  A corner vanity is a vanity that has a pointed back that fits right into the corner between two walls.

Coues Deer Antlers:  The Coues Deer is a species of white tailed deer found in North, South and Central America. The antlers this type of deer grows are shed once a year and are a great find for anyone as they are in the outdoors. Artists enjoy using these natural pieces in works such as lamps that provide beauty and functionality to the space.

Crystal:  Crystal is a mineral or glass that is highly transparent commonly used in tableware, ornaments, and chandeliers.  It is formed in a 3-dimensional pattern consisting of flat surfaces with sharp angles.

Cultured Marble:  Cultured marble is a man-made product that contains poly-acrylic resins and crushed marble dust. Cultured marble is formed inside heated molds into vanity sinks, tops and shower surrounds.  Cultured marble is easy to clean and maintain, and because it’s non-porous, resists stains and mildew.

D

Desk Lamp:  A desk lamp is a small lamp that sits on a desk.

Diverter:  A diverter is a valve used to change the flow of water through the faucet or handles.

Double Vanities:  A double vanity is a bathroom cabinet that has two sinks.  Generally found in master bathrooms where two people share the same space.

Drop-In Sink:  A drop-in sink is a sink that you drop in to the opening of the countertop, the top rim of the sink will be exposed.

Dual Lever:  A dual lever refers to a faucet that has 2 handles to adjust the hot and cold water.

E

Engineered Stone:  Engineered stone is a combination of natural stone and resin, which binds the crushed stone together for a non-porous, smooth application, such as counter tops and sinks.  This can be polished (glossy finish) or honed (matte finish), and is an ideal material for bathroom vanities.

F

Fabric:  Fabric is a cloth comprised of woven materials, either natural, synthetic, or both. Because it is woven, it has the tendency to be strong and durable. It can be dyed in variety of colors and appear in a variety of textures depending on the materials used to make it.

Farmhouse Vanities:  Farmhouse vanities have a rustic, natural wood finish.  They include warm colors and are inspired by classic countryside elements.  You’ll find a certain amount of overlap between rustic and farmhouse vanities. But while rustic vanities place a major emphasis on the look of the wood, farmhouse vanities are often painted a pale color and exude a Shaker-like ambiance.  Part of their country feel comes from their sturdy, durable hardware, and they should look simple, old-fashioned, and functional all at once. 

Firwood:  Firwood comes from a tree that is recommended for construction use indoors only as it has no decay or insect resistance after logging.

Floating Vanities:  Floating vanities are wall mounted or hung.  They have the appearance of "floating".

Floor Lamp:  A floor lamp is a very tall lamp that is on a stand on the floor.

Foam:  Foam in this instance is a resin polyurethane material.  Resin can be a multitude of ingredients mixed together in a liquid form and then poured or injected into a mold to gain a desired shape.  Resins are used for decorative applications, are light weight and cost effective.

Forged Iron:  Iron is a hard ferrous metal.  It is made by the same refinement process as steel but is left with more impurities.  Iron is used in building structures and anywhere large heavy loads are in need of support. Forged Iron is heated and shaped to achieve a desired form.

Free Shipping via Curbside Freight Truck:  Curbside delivery uses LTL freight, which utilizes a semi-truck company.  Please note, we provide residential delivery using this service, but we cannot guarantee inside delivery. They will schedule a delivery window of 4 hours, and someone needs to be at the delivery address to accept and thoroughly inspect the delivery. Please have additional help with you at delivery to properly receive and inspect your purchase.

Free Standing:  A freestanding vanity is one that has the appearance of furniture and can be a standalone piece.

Fruitwood:  Fruitwood implies the wood of a fruit bearing tree, such as the apple, cherry, or pear, used especially in cabinetmaking or furniture production.

Fully Assembled:  The base cabinet is ready for installation right out of the box.  The countertop and sink will be attached to the base cabinet.  Some furniture style vanities are shipped without the feet attached, which require installation by simply screwing in, all parts included.  If it is a modular vanity, the vanity may be delivered in more than one piece.  These are designed to be set next to each other with no additional installation.  If additional accessories are included, such as faucet, mirrors, etc., these accessories will require installation.  Includes an open space for plumbing accessibility.

G

Gesso:  Gesso is a hard plaster material molded over wood. 

Glass:  Glass is a transparent or translucent material that has no crystalline structure yet behaves like a solid.

Granite:  Granite is a hard non-porous surface, which makes it an ideal material for sinks and countertops. Granite resists heat, scratches and stains, and protects against mold and mildew.  It’s recommended that you seal granite every 6 - 12 months.

H

Hammered Copper:  Hammered copper is copper that has been hammered by skilled artisans and creates small dents on the surface.

Hand Shower:  A hand shower is an extra arm that comes down from the main shower head when you need it.

Honed:  Honed is a process of filling and polishing natural voids in stone to create a smooth surface.

Horizontally:  Horizontally refers to hanging of a mirror from side to side.

I

Infinity Pool:  This is a sink that is made in to two parts.  They are generally shallow and the center piece is removeable.

Integrated Sink:  And integrated sink is a sink that is formed in to the countertop making it one piece.

Iron:  Iron is a hard ferrous metal.  It is made by the same refinement process as steel but is left with more impurities.  Iron is used in building structures and anywhere large heavy loads are in need of support. Iron is blue/grey in color and will rust easily if not coated with a protective coating such as paint.

J

Jade:  Jade is a semiprecious stone that takes a high polish.  Jade is usually green but sometimes whitish and is made of silicate minerals jadeite or nephrite.

Joystick Handle:  A joystick handle refers to the handle on a faucet.  It is one lever and usually has a round knob on it to adjust it to the right or left changing the water temperature.

L

Leather (or Faux Leather):  Leather is the hide of a cow that has been tanned, or dried, stretched, and treated to become a very durable material used in everything from gloves to boots to sofas.  Faux is a fabric or finish intended to substitute for leather when its cost-prohibitive or unsuitable.

Light Assembly Required:  The countertop and sink may not be attached to the base cabinet.  If not, this will require attachment by use of silicone (not provided) and additional hardware (provided).  Some furniture style vanities are shipped without the feet attached, which require installation by simply screwing in, all parts included. If additional accessories are included, such as faucet, mirrors, etc., these accessories will require installation.  Includes an open space for plumbing accessibility.

Limestone:  Limestone is a material that is formed from large mineral deposited and is a form of sedimentary rock.  Limestone can be cut into tile or blocks or ground and chiseled into sinks or other shapes.  It is somewhat soft in relation to granite and marble and will always have a rough sandy feeling to the finish.

Linen Cabinet:  A linen cabinet is a tall, narrow cabinet that is used for extra storage in the bathroom.

M

Mahogany:  Mahogany is a tree that grows in the rainforest or tropical climates of the world.  It is a fast growing tree and can be harvested and regrown quickly.  Mahogany is one of the favorite woods for furniture makers because of its consistent grain and ease of machining.  It also has a very warm reddish brown color with a rich depth of grain.

Malaysian Rubberwood:  Rubberwood comes from a tree that produces sap containing latex.  Once the latex sap stops coming out (30 years) the tree is harvested and made into cabinet parts and moldings.  Rubberwood is a tight grained dense wood (close to Teak or Walnut) that is very stable and will not crack or warp, making it ideal for bathroom cabinets or anywhere moisture may be an issue.

Mango Wood:  Mango Wood comes from the fruit bearing tree mostly found in South East Asia, in which the wood at the center, the heartwood, is pinkish, light or dark brown in raw form.  It has a coarse grain, and is easy to work with, particularly when finishing and polishing.

Manufactured Wood:  Manufactured wood is any type of product that is made from wood chips or wood pulp mixed together with a bonding agent or glue and then formed into a sheet or shape.  Benefits include a product that is straighter, cleaner, smoother and more stable than natural wood.

Maple:  Maple is sustainable tree because it regrows quickly.  It’s has a light grain, is extremely hard, and white in raw appearance.

Marble:  Marble is a porous stone, and offers a unique look with its natural veining.  Marble requires more maintenance than other natural stones, but can last a lifetime if taken care of properly.  Marble can be damaged by acidic cleaners and is more vulnerable to scratches and etching (water marks) if not dried routinely.

MDF:  MDF is a product made from wood pulp and glue.  It is usually formed and pressed into sheets and cut to specified dimensions.  MDF is ideal for use in paint grade applications as it has a smooth surface and is stable.  MDF is very straight, and does not warp in climate changes. MDF is ideal for ornate accents and carvings due to its consistency.  It takes paint well and provides a durable finish.  All hardwoods have been Kiln dried to ensure a stable product that will not expand, contract, or warp.

Medicine Cabinet:  A medicine cabinet is a mirror that has a door with a cabinet behind it.  They can either be wall mounted to recessed into the wall.

Metal:  Metal is a broad term for a material that is formed by mining ore from the earth and heating to high temperatures to extract the actual metal.  It has a high conductivity of heat, cold, and electricity. Characteristics may include heavy, hard and shiny.

Micas:  Micas are a group of minerals that are either transparent or colored that are crystallized in two-dimensional shapes that easily separate into very thin leaves.  Micas that don't contain a lot of iron are most commonly used as thermal or electrical insulators in appliances and in such electrical devices as capacitors.

Modern:  From a style perspective, modern bathroom vanities are the polar opposites of traditional vanities. Instead of gilded accents, metal hardware, and carved woods, modern designs celebrate minimalism.  Characteristics associated with the modern style include bold colors, unadorned decor, and simple lines. You also have many choices when it comes to tall bathroom vanities.

Mounting Ring:  A mounting ring is used in vessel sink installation.  It is a rubber gasket that sits in between the sink and the countertop, optional piece.

Mule Deer Antlers:  Antlers are a feature of many different kinds of animals, including mule deers, which are very common in North America. The antlers of an animal grow and then fall off of the animal once a year. Finding these antler sets in the woods is very easy. Using the antlers for decorative and functional purposes is something many artists have done, creating unique lights to add a wonderful natural feature to the room.

N

Narrow Depth Vanities:  A narrow depth vanity is one that is narrower than the average.  The average depth vanity is going to be 22 inches.  Generally, anything narrower than that is considered a narrow depth vanity.

Non-Overflow:  A non-overflow drain is generally used in a vessel sink or a sink that does not have an overflow valve.

O

Oak:  Oak is one of the most common woods used in the furniture and cabinetry business today.  It is a fast growing tree that is easy to mill and work, generally has a pronounced grain pattern and is brown in color.  Oak is a very solid and stable wood.

Offset Sink:  Offset sink refers to a sink that is set either to the right or to the left on the countertop.  You may need an offset sink if you are trying to go with a larger single vanity and don't want to move the existing plumbing.

Oil Rubbed Bronze:  Bronze and Oil Rubbed Bronze finish is dark brown and tends to be used in more traditional design.  The bronze finish can wear off over time with a lot of use.  Proper care can extend the life of the finish.  Actual color may vary slightly due to different computer monitor display settings.  UniqueVanities.com cannot guarantee that finishes between manufacturers will match.

Onyx:  Onyx is a calcareous stone, formed by dissolving limestone and redeposited as a new kind of stone.   It is a natural stone that has a translucent quality like glass but has the color and veining like travertine, and can be back lit to give a very interesting effect.  Onyx is soft and brittle, and can be easily scratched or chipped.  Onyx is a beautifully unique stone, but great care must be taken to maintain it. It must be wiped dry routinely to prevent etching, and should be sealed at least every 3-6 months using an Onyx sealer.  Onyx is a stone material that has been used for centuries because of its natural beauty. It is created with bands of colors that are enhanced when it is carved. It can be artificially treated to create different colors. It is a popular choice when looking for items made with organic materials.

Ornate:  Ornate refers to the style using complex patterns or shapes.  Very fancy.

Overflow:  An overflow valve is an opening in the sink that prevents overflow of water.  When choosing your drain, you want to make sure you have an overflow drain as opposed to a non-overflow drain.

P

Partially Recessed Sink:  A partially recessed sink will be mounted half way under the countertop and halfway on top of the countertop.

Particle Board:  Particle board is made up of small wood chips and then mixed with glue, pressed and heated to form sheet goods. Commonly used in cabinet making and countertops, among other furniture and building materials.

Pedestal:  Pedestal vanities are smaller in size and tend to be just a sink.  Some may have cabinet space as well, but generally the plumbing is exposed.

Pendant Light:  A pendant light is a light fixture suspended from the ceiling on a long chain or rod.  Pendant lights use a single bulb.

Petrified Wood:  Petrified wood is made from thousands of years of pressure and the elements of the earth.  Wood that was buried a long time ago and has maintained its shape without decomposition becomes petrified.  Petrified means it is hardened like rock and will maintain it shape and physical characteristics for many years.

Pine:  Pine wood comes from a tree that is used for the bulk of framing and building homes and other structures.  Pine is used mainly because it grows quickly and can be harvested numerous times from one area.

Plastic:  Plastic material is any of a wide range of synthetic or semi-synthetic solids used in the manufacture of products. Plastics are typically polymers of high molecular mass, and may contain other substances to improve performance and or reduce costs. 

Plywood:  Plywood is multiple thin layers of wood, usually 5 or more depending on the thickness of the panel, glued and pressed together to form the desired thickness of a sheet 4 ft X 8 ft.   All hardwoods have been Kiln dried to ensure a stable product that will not expand, contract, or warp.

Polished Interior:  Polished interior is referring to a stone sink that has been polished inside to give it a glossy finish.

Polymarble or Melamine:  Polymarble, or melamine, is a mix of polyurethane resin and marble powder that combines to make a high density surface, known for its strength and rigidity. The process of combining the two components makes the product both extremely durable and also very tolerant to scratches, chips, etc. Most often it is cast from a mold to create the desired edges for the surface it is intended. Then, a high quality gel top coat is applied to create a smooth finish which allows ease of cleaning for the consumer.

Polyurethane:  Polyurethane can be found in molded objects such as ornate moldings, car parts, and also can be found as a liquid wood sealer used on floors or anywhere else a tuff protective coating is required.

Poplar:  Poplar is one of the most common used woods to build furniture frame work and paint grade cabinets.  It has a tight smooth grain.  Poplar grows very tall and straight so getting lumber in wide widths and long lengths is easy.

Porcelain:  Porcelain is similar to ceramic but is a little harder in nature and is heated to a high temperature when manufactured.  It is also easily formed and colored into tiles, toilets, sinks, and bathtubs just to name a few.

Pre-Drilled:  Pre-drilled means that it will come pre-drilled with holes already cut for either a vessel sink or the faucet(s).

PVC:  Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC).   PVC is a form of very dense, hard plastic that is used to make a wide array of things from plumbing pipe to car parts to intricate moldings.  It can be shaped into just about anything by means of injection molding or CNC carving.  PVC is extremely stable and completely water resistant.  It also paints well and will last forever.

PVD - Physical Vapor Deposition:  PVD is Physical Vapor Deposition. This is a process by which chrome is colored to a different finish. This is done by heating up a sample material (usually a metal alloy oxide or nitride) to a high temperature where it becomes a gas and introducing it to a colder chrome item. The metal alloy is condensed into the lattice structure of the surface of the chrome. This gives the chrome a coloring related to the make-up of the gas. Different gasses equal different colors. PVD is not a coating, the molecules of the colorant are interjected into the surface of the chrome. The end product of the PVD process has all the features of chrome, but different coloration. The one pre caution to PVD is strong acids can remove the coloration and leave the base chrome finish where exposed to the acid. We strongly recommend to never use acidic drain cleaners.

Q

Quartz:  Quartz is a hard, colorless mineral found in many types of stone.  Man-made Quartz counter tops are a combination of mostly quartz and resin, which binds the crushed stone together for a non-porous, smooth application, such as counter tops and sinks.  Quartz countertops are durable, resistant to stains and heat, and is an ideal material for bathroom vanities.

R

Rattan:  Rattans are used for making furniture and baskets.  Rattan accepts paints and stains like many other kinds of wood, so it is available in many colors; is a good material mainly because it is lightweight, durable, and flexible.

Rawhide:  Rawhide is natural material from an animal source that has many uses. Unlike leather, rawhide is not tanned so it remains stiff and can retain a shape much better. The treated hide has an opaque look that allows light to show through, making it a great material for lamp shades.

Reclaimed Wood:  Reclaimed wood is commonly described as wood that was salvaged from a previous use; in essence, recycled wood.  To reclaim is to procure usable substance from what would have been considered waste.

Resin:  Resin can be a multitude of ingredients mixed together in a liquid form and then poured or injected into a mold to gain a desired shape.  Resins are used for decorative applications, are light weight and cost effective.

River Rock:  River Rock is a variety of phosphate rock, which is naturally formed by the forces of water and friction.

Rope:  Rope is long pieces of natural fibers such as hemp or even artificial fibers that are braided together.  Rope is most commonly used in the nautical scene or the outdoors.

Rough Exterior:  A rough exterior pertains to a natural stone vessel sink that will be cut to have a rough exterior as opposed to a smooth exterior.

Rubberwood:  Rubberwood comes from a tree that produces sap containing latex.  Once the latex sap stops coming out (30 years) the tree is harvested and made into cabinet parts and moldings.  Rubberwood is a tight grained dense wood (close to Teak or Walnut) that is very stable and will not crack or warp, making it ideal for bathroom cabinets or anywhere moisture may be an issue.

Rustic:  Rustic bathroom vanities channel the freewheeling spirit of the frontier. To achieve a woodsy, primitive look, they rely on gorgeous wood, such as that from up-cycled old barns, in their construction. These pieces look amazing in a log cabin-style home or one with outdoorsy decor. While they often contain elements similar to traditional vanities, they prove far more primitive in their overall construction and design.  Rustic style represents a simple life close to nature and brings to mind dark wood, cast iron, antique terra cotta pottery and walls decorated with taxidermy deer heads.

S

Seashells:  Seashells are the shells shed by aquatic mollusks and found at the bottom of oceans or beaches. Used often in decor, these pieces are known for their beauty, uniqueness, strength, and durability.

Single Hole Faucet:  A single hole faucet is a stand alone faucet that has the hot and cold water handles all in one.  They only require one pre-drilled hole in the countertop.

Single Lever:  A single lever faucet has only one lever for the hot and cold water as opposed to two.

Single Vanities:  Single vanities only have one sink.

Slate:  Slate is a type of rock that flakes easily and is made up of hardened clay so is relatively soft for rock; widely used as a tile in flooring and backsplash applications.

Soft Close Hinges:  Soft close hinges when opened, allows the cabinet door to close softly and on their own, just give it a little push.

Solid Brass with Ceramic Cartridge:  Solid brass refers to the construction of the faucet which is of higher quality.  A ceramic cartridge can be found in the spout that helps with waterflow.  A lot of times with leaks, this is the part that needs replaced.

Solid Surface:  Solid surface countertops are a man-made product formed by combining natural stone and resins, and molded into a solid product, such as a counter top or sink.  Solid surface is durable, easy to clean, and comes in many colors and shapes.  Solid surface can scratch easily, but can be easily buffed out too.

Spout Height:  The spout height is referring to the measurement from the countertop to the top of the spout.  When choosing a faucet for a vessel sink, you want to make sure this measurement clears the height of the sink plus a few more inches for comfort.

Spout Reach:  The spout reach of a faucet refers to the measurement from the back of the faucet to the front of the spout.  This is the distance the spout of the faucet will reach out in to the sink.

Stainless Steel:  Stainless steel is a very pure form of steel and is used to make anything that requires resistance to chemicals and frequent cleaning.  Just like regular steel, stainless can be bent cut and welded into any shape and also comes in a variety of standard shapes and thicknesses.

Steel:  Steel is sometimes used to frame furniture or cabinetry when wood may not be strong enough or when the exposed steel on the outside is the desired look of the piece.  Steel is very straight and strong and can be painted to an extremely high gloss finish or a matte finish.

Sunburst:  Sunburst is a shape resembling the sun.

T

Table Lamp:  A table lamp is a smaller lamp that sits on the table.

Teak:  Teak Wood comes from the tall evergreen tree mostly found in South East Asia, in which the wood is yellowish brown in raw form.  It is a hard, heavy, and strong wood, ideal for use in manufacturing furniture.

Tempered Glass:  Tempered glass is one of two kinds of safety glass regularly used in applications in which standard glass could pose a potential danger. Tempered glass is four to five times stronger than standard glass and does not break into sharp shards when it fails. Tempered glass is manufactured through a process of extreme heating and rapid cooling, making it harder than normal glass.  It is an excellent material for bathroom sinks and countertops, and requires little maintenance.

Thermostatic Valve Body:  This is a valve in a shower valve that regulates the temperature.  The valve body has a different dial for the pressure and the water temperature.

Three Hole 8" Center:  This is referring to a faucet.  The three hole means that you have a faucet spout and then two handles to control the hot and cold water.  8 inch center refers to the distance between the hot and cold water handles from the center of the sink.

Tin:  Tin is a thin soft type of metal.  Found in cans for food, roofing, and decorative moldings or ceiling tiles. Tin is a natural metal that has had many uses for humankind over many centuries. It is considered a good material because it has low toxicity. It is used today in many products and is also a good material choice because it is easy to recycle. Punched tin has been a popular way of decorating for many years as it allows light to show through any style of design.

Tolerance: +/- 1/2":  All of our vanities and counter tops are hand made and can have a tolerance of +/- half an inch.

Top Mount Sink:  A top mount sink is a sink that you mount on the top of your countertop, like a vessel sink.

Traditional:  Exuding the luxury of old-world European comfort, they are considered to be "furniture-style" vanities. In other words, they come with elegant hardware, ornate designs, and intricate molding. Although you’ll find them in a variety of colors, most traditional vanities come in neutral or wood colors. They sometimes include a mirror as a focal point and often incorporate intricate metal or gilded wood features.

Transitional:  A transitional vanity represents the middle ground between a traditional vanity and a modern vanity. The elaborate carvings, hardware, and flourishes of traditional vanities are more subdued when it comes to transitional pieces. Yet, they avoid being so subdued that they become boring. This is where the modern style lends transitional vanities excitement through bold color contrasts, modern proportions, and brushed metal hardware.

Travertine:  Travertine is a form of limestone deposited by mineral springs. Travertine is a porous stone that in raw form has lots of veining and pits.  When Travertine is used for sinks and countertops, it is honed, which means the pits are filled and sanded to create a smooth surface.  Travertine can be damaged by acidic foods and cleaners, and is more vulnerable to scratches and etching (water marks) if not dried routinely. It is recommended that you seal Travertine at least every 3-6 months.

U

Undermount Sink:  Undermount sinks sit below the countertop.  They are installed underneath the cabinet top using clips or caulk…or both

Urethane:  Urethane can be found in molded objects such as ornate moldings, car parts, and also can be found as a liquid wood sealer used on floors or anywhere else a tuff protective coating is required.

V

Veneers:  In woodworking, veneer refers to thin slices of wood, usually thinner than 1/8 inch, and is glued onto core wood panels to produce flat panels such as doors, tops and panels for cabinets.  All hardwoods have been Kiln dried to ensure a stable product that will not expand, contract, or warp.

Venetian:  Venetian style has ornate characteristics and comes from the renaissance era, very fancy.

Vertically:  Vertically refers to the hanging of a mirror going up and down.

Vessel Faucet:  Vessel faucets are a single hole faucet and tall in stature.

Vessel Sink:  A vessel sink is a sink that sits on top of your countertop, looking like a bowl.

Vitreous China:  Vitreous China is a clay material, fired at high temperatures after glazing to create a high gloss, smooth and stain resistant surface.  Vitreous china is an ideal material used in the manufacturing of bathroom sinks, toilets and bath tubs.

W

Wall Mount Faucet:  A wall mount faucet is one that is mounted on the wall to save countertop space.

Wall Sconce:  A wall sconce is a light mounted on the wall rather than the ceiling.  It can be a candle holder or electrical light fixture.

Waterfall Faucet:  A waterfall faucet has an open spout that allows the water to flow more freely giving the appearance of a waterfall.

Watt:  A watt is a unit of power that is used to specify the rate at which energy is dispersed.

Weathered Copper:  Weathered Copper is usually a darker matte brownish orange when new and will age or patina to a darker brown with time. Actual color may vary slightly due to different computer monitor display settings.  UniqueVanities.com cannot guarantee that finishes between manufacturers will match.

Wenge:  Wenge wood comes from South America.  It has a very straight grain, is extremely hard and dense, and is naturally a java color.

White Glove Delivery:  White glove delivery includes inside placement, two flights of stairs, unpacking, debris removal, and set-up limited to 15 minutes (and no usage of tools).

Widespread Faucet:  A widespread faucet is generally 3 pieces having the faucet spout as well as a hot and a cold water handle, generally 8 inches.

Wood:  Wood is a natural living material that is harvested from various types of trees and used as a building material for a wide variety of items.

Wrought Iron:  Iron is a natural material that has been used for many centuries for many different purposes. Iron is a very sturdy metal that can be heated to high temperatures and formed into many different items. A blacksmith is a person who works with this medium and can create pieces that are both functional as well as being decorative.

Z

Zen:  Zen is a type of vessel sink that is carved from a single block of stone.