DOUBLE SINKS IN RENOVATED BATHROOMS – GOOD IDEA OR NOT?

Experienced Remodeling Contractors Discuss the Pros and Cons

Often, one of the key decisions to make while remodeling a bathroom is whether to go for two sinks instead of one. But are double sinks in renovated bathrooms always a good idea? The experienced contractors at California Bathroom and Kitchen Remodelers discuss whether double sinks are a ‘relationship-saver’, a luxury, or a fad that many couples consider a necessity.

RESOLVING THE DILEMMA OF DOUBLE VERSUS SINGLE SINKS

Whether you are renovating a master bathroom, or a bathroom shared between kids, double sinks may be a practical solution to address conflicting morning routines. It’s a topic that comes up often on home improvement shows and home interior magazines. To decide whether you really need two sinks, ask yourself how much your schedules among family members actually overlap.

• Is there a constant struggle to elbow past each other to brush teeth at the single sink?

• Are you always trying to juggle space between your hair dryer, flat iron, make-up items, and other tools that need to rest on a flat surface?

• Are you constantly at odds with your bathroom mate about issues such as hair in the sink or dried up toothpaste in the bowl?

For busy couples with conflicting schedules, double sinks can be a real blessing. Not only will you stay out of each other’s way during rush hour, but you will also minimize unnecessary arguments that eventually take a toll on the relationship. In fact, doubling the sinks would mean doubling the personal space available in the bathroom. Which means, you can:

• Arrange your own personal items the way you prefer and keep your bathroom necessities separate if you like.

• Maximize the available space to avoid disruption to your routine.

• Enjoy your personal space, without having to notice your bathroom mate’s toothpaste residue while brushing your own teeth.

However, keep in mind that double sinks may not always be feasible or necessary.

• Space availability: Does your existing bathroom have a solid 6 feet or more of space to install double sinks? While a typical basin will be 17 to 19 inches wide, you will need a 12-inch buffer to set the sinks at a convenient distance. After all, you do not want to end up with double sinks that are so close that you are banging elbows or crowding each other.

• Layout redesign: If your bathroom lacks the space needed for two sinks, you may have to consider a complete layout redesign. Is this additional remodeling cost worth the convenience of a double sink? Remember, two sinks will also take up extra space for the double set of drainpipes, which could eat into your under-cabinet storage capacity. Is it better to utilize the available space or layout for enlarging a tiny shower stall, or installing a bathtub, instead of investing in a sink?

• Additional costs: Even if you have sufficient space to install two sinks, there will be other costs involved. You will need to spend on a larger vanity and finishes, additional plumbing, and double the number of fixtures and hardware.

• Lack of privacy:Another important consideration while adding double sinks in renovated bathrooms is, are you gaining or losing privacy? A separate sink may give you defined space and convenience for managing your bathroom habits and accessories. However, the availability of a second sink would mean your bathroom mate could be sharing the space with you, even when you need some privacy or alone time.

The question of one sink versus double sinks does not have any definitive answers. It could be an excellent and efficient feature for one home, but a waste of space and money for another. Make an informed decision based on your lifestyle, schedules, space, and budget.   

QUALITY MAKEOVERS BY SANTA CLARA VALLEY’S BATHROOM REMODELING SPECIALISTS

At California Bathroom & Kitchen Remodelers, we love to remodel bathrooms and transform them into functional and luxurious spa-like retreats. When customers ask us about common questions like whether a double sink is a good idea, we respond based on our experience and recommend what will work best for their home. Our creative designers take time to understand your requirements and provide innovative solutions that maximize your space and budget. We promise skilled workmanship, smooth finishes, and timely completion of projects.

Since 1994, we have served a growing base of delighted customers across Santa Clara Valley, including in San Jose, Santa Clara, Almaden, Los Gatos, Willow Glen, Los Altos Hills and Monte Sereno, CA.

Still unsure if double sinks in renovated bathrooms is a good idea? Call CBKR, your bathroom remodeling experts at 408-360-9700 or contact us online to schedule an in-home consultation. We offer practical and cost-effective solutions for attractive bathroom makeovers.