What You Should Know Before Installing a Bathroom Vanity

Whether you’re having plumbing issues or just looking for something fresh to spruce up your bathroom, remodeling your vanity will do wonders for its overall look. Besides accommodating a sink or two, this cabinet also hides plumbing while providing additional storage. For this reason, you’ll want to ensure proper bathroom cabinet installation.  

We’re here to point out the most common mistakes homeowners make when installing this fixture and the benefits of hiring a professional to do it for you.

Things Bathroom Remodelers Should Know Before Installing a Vanity

Mistakes to Avoid

MISTAKE #1: Failing to determine your design goals at the outset.

It’s best to think about your design goals before installing a brand-new bathroom vanity. This decision requires you to consider the cost, the damage it can withstand, how long you want it to last, and how much value it adds to your home. Try to figure out if you want a trendy floating vanity that can help you sell your property faster or if you want a traditional one that can stand up to high use. A trusted designer can help you determine the materials that fit your design goals.  

MISTAKE #2: Ignoring existing plumbing fixtures.

Bathroom remodelers who get too excited about their design goals fail to consider the plumbing fixtures. Proper plumbing knowledge is necessary when installing a bathroom vanity because you wouldn’t want to move your existing plumbing fixtures unless necessary. Thankfully, an expert can help you steer clear of water flow problems, drainage issues, and structural damage due to incorrect use.

MISTAKE #3: Forgetting about the lighting.

Since vanity lighting illuminates your head, you need them for daily grooming. It’s important to note that a good vanity lighting plan places ample light where it’s needed for shaving and putting on makeup. Using the wrong lighting fixtures will make grooming more difficult because they cast shadows on your face.

MISTAKE #4: Using cheap materials.

You’ll have to consider your decision’s long-term cost. Although using lower-budget items may seem like a good idea, it’s important to note that cheap materials almost always require additional maintenance or repairs. Unless you’re willing to risk installing a vanity that will cost more than initially intended, it’s best to avoid making decisions based solely on low price alone.

MISTAKE #5: Using the wrong tools.

Many DIYers decide to test out their amateur skills in bathroom remodeling to save money. As a result, they often use the wrong techniques and tools to get the job done. If you don’t have the necessary equipment or training, you can run into small problems with trimming and details or you will face big problems that require a plumber’s touch. Instead of shelling out money and wasting money on costly repairs, it’s best to let an expert handle everything for you.

MISTAKE #6: Not getting the correct measurements.

Installing a vanity without measuring the space isn’t something you would want to do. Experts recommend measuring twice and drilling once. Assuming that your vanity will fit in an existing bathroom increases the likelihood of having ugly gaps, needing extra material, or patching drywall. All of which costs time and money and requires more planning to fix mistakes.  

Additionally, ensuring that your vanity’s height is up to yours will help you avoid an uncomfortable experience when you’re using it. Besides having its height at your preferred level, ensure that it provides enough space for your personal items.  

Lastly, consider the size of your vanity relative to the size of your bathroom. Knowing how much space you have around the area prevents you from making a bad judgment call. After all, the last thing you want is to feel cramped or struggle with sitting on the toilet.

MISTAKE #7: Not giving combinations much thought.

When selecting a brand-new bathroom vanity, you’ll have to consider the kind of countertop you want. This piece has to complement your existing décor to make the entire space look and feel more cohesive and polished. Otherwise, you’ll run the risk of having cabinets and countertops that look like two pieces of furniture that don’t match.  

MISTAKE #8: Forgetting about childproofing your cabinets.

If you have younger kids who have an uncanny ability to get into everything, you should consider childproofing your bathroom vanity. Consider purchasing magnet locks, cord locks, or sliding locks for side-by-side handles. Leaving them open makes it easier for your little ones to grab and pull down the cords of your curling iron, flat iron, or blow-dryer. Additionally, keeping your bathroom cabinets locked prevents your kids from getting their hands on shampoos, medicines, and hazardous cleaning materials.

MISTAKE #9: Choosing the wrong contractor.

While DIY methods usually turn out bad, choosing the wrong contractor will cause you to waste more time and money. For this reason, it’s best to let experienced professionals handle the job. Besides knowing the materials that look good and work well together, an experienced contractor ensures safety, comfort, and ease of use.  

Reasons Why You Should Hire a Professional

They Have a Higher Skill Level

Installing a vanity in your bathroom isn’t as easy as other low-risk DIY jobs, such as putting up some shelves or a new towel rack. This task requires higher technical skills and professionalism for safety purposes.

If you don’t have the expertise in handling plumbing and electrical work, your project can result in a disaster if your vanity isn’t correctly installed. Respecting your limits and calling a professional saves you a lot of trouble.

You’ll Save Time and Money

Making a single mistake with bathroom plumbing or electrical work can cost you hundreds of dollars in repairs. If you’re working under a deadline to get your bathroom vanity replaced, you’ll be better off hiring a professional. Since reliable and experienced contractors have the skills for electrical work, plumbing, and cabinetry, they work efficiently and produce quality results.  

Looking for an Expert in Bathroom Cabinet Installation?

At Cabinet Direct Club, we’re your partners – not just a company you order cabinets from. Our team will be with you every step, from design to installation. Get in touch with one of our dedicated professionals today to schedule a free in-home measure!