The purpose of the bathroom is known to all people. This room is designed not only for taking water procedures; many useful things are always stored here, in particular detergents, body care products, etc. As a rule, developers do not make this room large, so residents need to lay out all the necessary things on modest square meters.
Often a built-in countertop is installed in the bathroom. Thanks to this solution, the interior becomes stylish, extraordinary, and additional space appears for storing useful little things. Most often, it is a beautiful countertop that becomes the final accent in the bathroom.
Main selection criteria
To find the best option for your bathroom, you need to pay attention to many things.
Nuances to consider when buying a countertop:
- Mounting type. Manufacturers offer floor and wall models. The first option is easy to install. There are special legs with which the height of the tabletop can be adjusted. In the case of wall-mounted models, installation is carried out using anchors. The advantage is that the process of cleaning the bathroom is simplified.
- Product dimensions. They are usually standardized. Sometimes there may be a slight discrepancy. In such cases, the end of a long tabletop is cut off or a cut is made in the wall. As for the width, it is recommended to choose it according to the dimensions of the bathroom. If the room is small, a 40 cm model is suitable. For spacious rooms, products up to 100 cm are used.
- Functionality. You should pay attention to the presence of shelves, drawers for storing detergents, hygiene products, etc. If you plan to install a washing machine under the washbasin, it is better to have a separate compartment for it, as well as cutouts for sockets.
- Durability of the material. The tabletop is used in rather difficult conditions, and therefore must withstand temperature changes, humidity, and not be subject to corrosion or the negative influence of chemicals.
- Appearance. The design depends solely on the taste of the owners, as well as the interior of the bathroom. There are many options - there is a suitable model for any room.
When choosing, it is also recommended to take into account the layout features. For example, if there is a niche in the bathroom, it makes more sense to install the countertop in it.
Marble countertop
The types of countertops are varied. Based on stone, we can talk about natural marble or artificial versions. Marble is characterized by increased density and resistance to moisture. It is considered a noble material. The service life is long - the appearance retains its characteristics throughout almost its entire length.
Due to the peculiarities of the craftsmen, they create unique design approaches and this has become the key to the success of such products. Stone countertops are considered an excellent choice for various installation purposes.
Manufacturers
Among the manufacturers of bathroom countertops, there are several brands whose products are in particular consumer demand.
- Ikea - models at affordable prices, durable waterproof countertops in white, wood and black with wood, marble and anthracite finishes. Laminated products with sink installation anywhere.
- Aquanet is a wide range of solid-cast modules with linear and rounded facades, made in white and beige. Marble products with different designs from domestic manufacturers.
- Kerasan – hanging and floor-standing products with a glossy surface texture, made in light and black colors. Models of one-piece type with a central position of the sink. They vary in shape and may have curved sides.
- Migliore - products of a high price category, made of marble in a country style. Worktops with cabinets that can decorate a retro bathroom design.
- Kolpa San – models made of acrylic stone for the installation of overhead sinks, characterized by a laconic design. Console modules for compact sinks made of fireproof and durable material, resistant to chemicals and mechanical damage.
- “Aquaton” are budget-priced products designed for one or two sinks, characterized by ease of maintenance and geometric shapes. Made from MDF, they can be mounted on floor stands.
Glass table top
A glass-based bathroom countertop under a sink has a number of advantages. This is usually chosen by sophisticated owners. The material guarantees consistency in keeping with style and fashion trends. He never loses popularity and attractiveness.
It is protected from scratches, cracks and other unpleasant damage. Not affected by detergents, mildew or cleaning powders. The price is at a level and can be different, which is suitable for all segments of the population.
However, a bathroom with a glass-based countertop has some negative aspects. You will not be able to install it yourself to suit your size and shape of the sink. Such products will have to be properly looked after throughout the entire period of their operation.
In case of excessive loads, chips or even serious damage may occur. This almost always leads to replacement of the product, since its continued use is dangerous.
Dimensions
The parameters of slabs under the sink are very diverse. On sale you can find options with dimensions 990x450, 1170x605, 1200x350, 1200x490, 1200x600, 1204x456, 1270x480, 1300x490 mm. For small rooms you can purchase products with length and width parameters equal to 752x460, 850x490, 870x490, 905x470, 520x520 mm.
Options for 2 sinks range from 1200 mm in length and 480-500 mm in width.
Long and large countertops have a working panel with dimensions of more than 1300-2400 mm with an average width of 50-80 cm. The height of the standard model can be 15-40 mm. Narrow modules under the sink are 35 cm wide. The optimal height of the table under the sink is 80-85 cm.
Stone countertop
An artificial stone countertop is considered an excellent choice. Due to the special surface, the product acquires suitable characteristics. It is distinguished by its durability, high level of sound absorption, and long service life. All you have to do is walk over it with a damp cloth and the surface will acquire the necessary cleanliness and shine.
The negative side is considered to be increased susceptibility to temperature changes. This also includes the price level - it is too high. If it receives noticeable damage, repair is not possible and the only way out of the situation lies in replacing it with a new model.
Material of manufacture
Today, technology allows the use of a wide range of materials for the production of countertops. The main differences are the ease or difficulty of maintaining the finished product, durability, installation features, the level of influence of moisture and temperature on the appearance and function of the product, and cost. Let's look at the materials offered by countertop manufacturers in more detail.
Chipboard (particle board), MDF (medium density fibreboard)
A fairly widely used material for both kitchen and bathroom countertops. It has a number of advantages and disadvantages; let’s consider them in more detail.
Advantages:
- Easy to process material. It fits well under a built-in sink; cutting a hole of the required size is not difficult;
- Price . Relatively inexpensive material;
- A variety of textures and shades , which will allow you to choose a tabletop even for the most original and unusual interiors;
- Often the design imitates an expensive material , such as natural stone (marble, for example), natural wood, mosaic, etc.;
- Resistant to chemicals. Cleaning products that are actively used in the bathroom will not spoil the design, it will not fade;
- Impact resistant , this material will not be scratched.
Flaws:
- This material is not durable . The service life largely depends on the processing of such material, namely lamination. If the tabletop has a rectangular, even shape, then the plastic edge is bent under the slab to avoid water getting on the material; such a piece of furniture will please its owner longer. But if the tabletop has an irregular, original shape, then the plastic edge is glued to the chipboard and, accordingly, the service life of such a product is short;
- Chipboard (MDF) is “afraid” of moisture , of which there is plenty in the bathroom. Therefore, if the tabletop is made of wood or MDF, it is necessary to wipe the surface from moisture more often and more thoroughly, since this material tends to swell when moisture accumulates or with a poorly made coating, and lose its presentable appearance.
A natural stone
Typically, marble or granite is used for countertops. Most often, this type of material is used to make solid tabletops; they look impressive and will decorate any interior. This choice speaks to the luxury and wealth of the residents.
Advantages:
- Durability . Such material will last, with proper care, almost an eternity;
- This material is impact-resistant and durable , it is very difficult to scratch or damage, but even in the case of scratches, abrasions and other things, there are a huge number of products on sale that will fix this and return the product to a mirror shine (if the tabletop is not initially matte);
- Colors and shades will delight even the most sophisticated buyer with their diversity;
- The material is moisture resistant ;
- Easy to care for , does not require additional effort when cleaning;
- Long-term use does not affect color and appearance;
Flaws:
- This material is heavy , natural stone is not suitable for hanging fastening methods, any brackets simply won’t support it, the alternative is floor or semi-hanging methods;
- Difficulty in installation . You should not try to install such a countertop yourself. It is better to entrust this work to a professional, because fastening requires special equipment;
- Price. The use of such material will cost the buyer the most.
Fake diamond
One of the most requested material options for bathroom countertops. It is granite or marble chips, which is a waste material from the manufacture of countertops made of natural stone. Today there are two types of artificial stone:
- acrylic , consists of acrylic resin, mineral filler and aluminum hydroxide, allows you to bring to life the most daring ideas;
- agglomerated , consists of marble, quartz and granite chips, which are bound with polyester resin; only diamond is harder than this material.
Advantages:
- The benefits are essentially the same as for natural stone countertops;
- The price is lower than the price of a natural stone product;
- Wear-resistant and quite difficult to scratch, so you don’t have to worry about scratches and chips;
- Quite easy to repair.
Flaws:
- The only drawback can be considered the weight of the product , although if you use the floor mounting method, the user will not experience any inconvenience in operation.
Plastic.
Perhaps not the best choice of material for the countertop. Manufacturers of plastic countertops will amaze the buyer with a variety of colors and shades, and the material can also be painted. If you choose this material, then it is important to pay attention to the side ends, which in cheap models are covered with an edge under which dirt and moisture accumulate; it is better if the plastic tabletop is molded.
Advantages:
- The advantage is the price , there is nothing lower in cost, so if the budget is very limited, then plastic is the best solution;
- The material is moisture resistant ;
- Plastic is lightweight , which means you can use the hanging method of fastening and create a unique interior.
Flaws:
- Such material fades in the sun ;
- Easily scratched, cracked, due to the accumulation of dirt in such places, mold often appears on the surface;
- Not resistant to chemicals ; cleaning with aggressive agents can damage the surface of the product.
Glass
A relatively new fashion trend. Rarely used in conjunction with shelves, as a rule it is a horizontal surface, attached using a suspended method with a solid cast structure or with an overhead sink. Let's consider what advantages and disadvantages this material has.
Advantages:
- Appearance. Fits and looks impressive in any interior;
- “Not afraid” of cleaning products. This material is resistant to detergents and even acids.
Flaws:
- Difficulty in cleaning . It is extremely difficult to maintain the cleanliness of such a product; water leaves stains and salt traces;
- The weight is quite large due to the thickness of the glass, because in order for it to withstand standard loads, the thickness must be decent;
- For such a countertop, only overhead sinks are suitable, which, as a rule, come complete, so you will have to be content with what you have, it will be difficult to realize your desires, and manufacturers do not recommend choosing a sink separately;
- The material is known for its fragility , despite the fact that thick tempered glass is used for tabletops, it is not so difficult to break it, and since if the glass is damaged it is impossible to repair, you will have to buy the entire set again.
Solid wood
The service life of a solid wood tabletop depends largely on the choice of wood type (ideally if it is larch) and, as customer experience shows, it is best to use a glued structure for this purpose. The specific resin of this tree, upon contact with water, forms a protective layer that prevents and protects the wood from rot and increases the strength of the product.
Advantages:
- In recent years, everything “ eco-friendly ” has been actively coming into fashion; wooden countertops are exactly this case; a wooden console is absolutely harmless to health;
- Resistant to moisture . With proper care, moisture will not damage or change the appearance of such a product;
- Appearance . This console looks original and exclusive;
Flaws:
- Difficult to care for. Since the bathroom naturally has high (sometimes excessive) humidity, it is important to treat the countertop with an antiseptic and varnish from time to time;
- Regular and thorough cleaning is also required ;
- Not resistant to damage . It scratches easily and does not withstand impacts, so you need to treat such a piece of furniture with care.
Ceramic tiles (mosaic)
It is a frame covered with plasterboard, which is decorated with tiles. Both textured (require additional cleaning from dirt) and smooth surfaces of the tiles are possible. Most often for the bathroom I use countertops lined with small mosaics (10x10cm, 15x15 cm, 20x20 cm), such tiles visually increase the space, which is often too small. Although, if the bathroom area allows, then you can use large tiles (30x30 cm, 60x60 cm). These tiles are easier to install and maintain.
Advantages:
- Appearance . The interior looks impressive in which the countertop, walls and floor are made either in tiles of the same style or in the same tiles;
- Easy to maintain and clean , since this type of countertops is resistant to aggressive cleaning agents;
- Not afraid of temperature changes, quite practical, durable ;
- The color ranges of ceramic tiles and mosaics have no boundaries. The most popular, classic colors are white, all shades of blue; a marine theme in the bathroom is always appropriate. The tabletop can be made in different ways, in tone with the overall color of the room, a tone lighter or darker, in contrast, it all depends on the desire and originality of the client. Practical colors like beige, sand, black and gray are suitable for any bathroom design; combinations of several colors, white and black, white and blue, red and black, look great, but it is better not to combine more than three shades together, it may turn out too “cluttery”.
Flaws:
- Difficulty of installation;
- Price. Relatively expensive material, although given the advantages, this price is justified.
Wooden table top
Made from natural wood it has a number of advantages. The owners will receive a texture formed by pine, oak or teak. The atmosphere of the bath will be filled with the presence of warmth, comfort and the natural component included in the formation of the interior. The room will receive beauty, richness and sophistication, a connection with nature.
Fragility spoils all these advantages. The service life will not exceed ten years. Time leaves its mark, and the material begins to deteriorate. The cost is also not considered a positive thing - it is not small.
Features of care
The right countertop helps to refine the bathroom, add originality, and increase the functionality of the space. However, with poor or improper care, all the advantages of such a piece of furniture come to naught and even spoil the appearance of the room. In addition to basic care (washing, wiping, polishing and treating with cleaning agents), it is important to know the individual care features depending on the selected countertop model. For example:
- products made of natural stone require periodic impregnation with special impregnation agents, which, when dry, form a durable protective film that prevents the stone from absorbing moisture, which is especially important in the bathroom;
- products with a glossy surface can only be treated with a damp cloth or soap solution, but in no case should such a surface be treated with aggressive abrasive cleaning agents that can damage the integrity of the coating and thereby spoil the appearance of the countertop;
- glass products are treated exclusively with glass and mirror care products, since stains and stains are easily visible on this material, which greatly spoil the aesthetic appearance;
- wood products require periodic treatment with agents (usually special oils) to protect such material from moisture;
- products made from chipboard (IMF) have poor resistance to lag, easily swell and lose their presentable appearance, and therefore require special care. You can protect such a product if you wipe the entire product dry after each use, especially the joints and seams.
Why is stainless steel interesting in this context?
The tabletop using stainless steel creates a unique and laconic form. This look is easy to integrate with modern design trends. Fits especially well into modern or minimalism. It is durable and successfully contacts with water, copes with fungal formations. It does not require special care; you can use any cleaning products - they are safe for its surfaces.
You should not opt for smooth versions; they quickly become scratched and lose their commercial beauty. It is worth taking an uneven modification with some patterns, which will be an adequate choice of tabletop. Although, this will create difficulties during washing.
Tips for choosing
When looking for a particular model to buy, you need to pay attention to various factors. The key one is the method of fastening. Hanging countertops are good because they are easy to clean.
They are installed on one or adjacent walls; they do not require vertical support elements.
However, buying them for installation on porous walls is unacceptable. The console is suitable for apartment buildings built of brick or reinforced concrete. It is worth considering that such models last less than their floor-standing counterparts.
Washbasin countertops with vertical supports are considered practical and durable. Despite the fact that in terms of visual unloading of space they are inferior to their suspended counterparts, these structures are more functional. Their supports can be used under racks for horizontal shelves.
To arrange the washing area in the most rational way, it is better to order a countertop model tailored to the characteristics of a specific room.
Countertops for overhead sinks do not provide for an inset sink. They are easy to replace and allow for block repairs. Built-in options are purchased with the expectation that the installation will be carried out by a professional technician.
This is explained by the need to accurately trim the hole. An amateur approach to installation can lead to the formation of large gaps that are difficult to seal.
One of the key purchasing criteria may be the ability to adjust the height of the sink. Tall people can choose models that allow for installation at different heights. At the same time, the console table top can be installed even in a niche. Fixation on three sides will give the structure greater reliability and strength.
When purchasing, pay attention to the moisture resistance of the material, its aesthetics, and reliability.
The panel should be easy to use and resistant to detergents and detergents. In addition, the product must match the style of the interior chosen for the bathroom.
Organism is also important: a well-chosen option does not take up much space.
Why is the built-in variation interesting?
It is best to install a built-in countertop in a bathroom using ceramic tiles. Due to this, a unity of perception of the entire space is created. Can offer a unique set of designs, patterns and delightful images. In addition, it is durable, easy to maintain, and protected from water.
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The negative point lies in the formation of scratches, pins, cracks - they cannot be removed using the usual approach. To do this, you will have to turn to skillful hands in the person of a master. After the restoration process, it will be possible to use the product as before this unpleasant event.
Installation
The tabletop can be of two types:
- Floor-standing (tabletop with legs, installed on furniture).
- Wall-mounted (attached to the wall).
Tabletop with legs
This is the simplest option. Does not require fastenings. Does not create additional load on the walls. You can place a cabinet or bedside table under the countertop; they will accommodate all the necessary things. But during cleaning, inconvenience may arise.
The table top is installed on the furniture
The most difficult mounting option. It can be attached to a floor cabinet using self-tapping screws, or to supports (walls) in which shelves are placed.
The tabletop is mounted on the wall
No floor supports are used; it is mounted using a bracket. A load is created on the walls. This option is easy to clean. Free space can be used for a bedside table, shelves or drawers. Good aesthetic appearance.
What are the benefits of countertops
Owners of apartments and other housing have long noticed that they help give a dull room that very zest that everyone needs. A beautiful countertop in the bathroom is a guarantee of its perfection and satisfaction from the time spent in this room.
Everyone wants to relax here in the evening and have the opportunity to thoroughly wash off the dirt and carry out other procedures. Coming here and seeing it - a tabletop with attractive shapes and the presence of design ideas, this process becomes easier and more enjoyable for household members. Do not forget about this when choosing this important product.
How to choose and buy an inexpensive but good bathroom countertop?
When choosing a countertop, you should think about the type of fasteners. In floor-mounted and wall-mounted designs, it is equally easy to connect the washbasin to the water supply system. The advantage of the floor design is that convenient cabinets can be built into the countertop.
The hanging structure should be lighter; it eliminates a large number of cabinets. It is easy to hide a washing machine under the wall-mounted countertop.
A large bathroom can accommodate wall cabinets and shelves. To do this, you should choose a small tabletop, for example, made of glass, which will add light and space to the room.
When choosing a ready-made countertop, you should pay attention to countertops with a cabinet - they are ideal for bathrooms of a standard layout and size.
When choosing a custom countertop, you should immediately select a sink. The entire design depends on its type. Built-in, solid, and counter-mounted sinks differ in installation. Don’t forget about the design: the countertop should fit organically into the interior, match the color and texture to the plumbing and decoration of the bathroom.
So where to choose?
Consider the individuality of your bathtub; only it can have a major influence on the final decision. Availability of installation work should be ensured in advance. Sometimes installation may not be possible for various reasons.
A countertop sink is the best option, it already includes everything you need. If there is a lot of space, you can use overhead versions shaped like a vessel. Mortise models are suitable for normal conditions.
To ensure longevity, purchase accessories in advance. These include impregnating liquids, soaps, specialized powders and more.
Cabinet design
When choosing a cabinet for a bathroom countertop, it is important to consider the design, taking into account aesthetic appeal and practical functionality. For wet rooms, emphasis should be placed on high-quality moisture-resistant materials.
Floor model
This option is considered classic; it is a cabinet with hinged doors and an internal filling of shelves and drawers where you can hide many different items. The model can be supplemented with a built-in laundry basket.
Wall cabinet
If you hang the cabinet from the wall, you can save additional space, which is very important for small spaces. Typically, such structures are mounted at a height of 80 cm. Often a mirror is already attached to the facades, which allows you to save on its purchase.
Corner model
In a small bathroom it is important to use every centimeter of usable space. A corner cabinet is perfect for this purpose, as it performs several functions at once: it occupies corner space, provides storage space and, if necessary, allows you to hide communications.
Choosing a countertop for a bathroom is not so difficult if you carefully consider its material, size and design. If you cannot find a suitable ready-made solution, it is possible to place an order for an individual project. In this case, it is guaranteed to fit into the interior, be comfortable and functional.
