Thinking About a Wall Hung Vanity Unit? Here’s What You Should Know First

What Are the Standard Sizes for Vanity Units?.

What Is the Ideal Height for a Wall Hung Vanity Unit and Sink?.

What Are the Common Materials for a Wall Hung Vanity Unit

Should you tile the wall behind a vanity unit?.

How to Maintain a Wall Hung Vanity Unit?.

Thinking About a Wall Hung Vanity Unit? Here’s What You Should Know First

Originally known as a toilet table and then a dressing table, the vanity unit has evolved overtime, reaching its final state of a structure that can easily support a washbasin.

From some points of view, the vanity unit can be seen as a cabinet, as it has two major purposes: offering extra storage and being stylish. But then, its uses and benefits go further than that.

Like other pieces in your bathroom, you can now get a wall hung vanity unit or just a classic freestanding unit. Let’s find out more about these things and how you can use them to enhance the practicability of your bathroom.

A Fixed Solution in Place

The vanity unit is a mix between a traditional cabinet and a washbasin. While some refer to these units as bathroom cabinets, the vanity unit replaces the classic pedestal with storage. Even if you opt for a wall hung basin vanity unit, it still has to be a fixed structure.

The washbasin is what makes it this way. If it was a classic cabinet on legs or wheels, accidentally moving it could damage the plumbing structure behind the washbasin. Therefore, the unit is fixed and won’t move. From many points of view, it’s built around the sink or as a single unit with the sink included.

Depending on the tiles or the wall surface around the sink, you could also have a wall hung basin vanity unit fitted around the actual sink, but it would have to be bespoke. If you get it ready made, it’s more effective to get the whole unit in one piece.

What Are the Various Types of Vanity Units Available?

Generally speaking, there are two types of vanity units.

Freestanding Vanity Units

Freestanding vanity units stand on the floor, meaning they can provide plenty of storage space, lots of drawers and perhaps some internal cabinets as well. Apart from the ample storage space, they can also hide plumbing pipes without requiring you to do anything else to keep them out of sight.

Since they rest on the floor, they're quite sturdy, and some of them are large enough to hold two washbasins.

Wall Hung Vanity Units

A wall hung vanity unit with a basin may also be referred to as a floating unit. It’s connected to a frame that’s fitted inside the wall. The frame is probably the most important element, as it’s supposed to hold the weight of the vanity unit, as well as what’s in there.

Despite looking contemporary, a vanity unit with basin wall hung tends to be cheaper than a classic one, mainly because it offers less storage. However, it can still hold a lot of things, from cleaning stuff to towels. Besides, it doesn’t hide potential water damage and it makes cleaning a breeze.

Normally suitable for a small bathroom, a wall hung bathroom vanity unit is now more popular for its modern appearance, rather than for the space saving profile.

Other Types of Vanity Units

The wall hung countertop vanity unit and the freestanding alternative dominate the market, but they aren’t the only options out there.

Cloackroom wall hung vanity unit. This is a miniature unit that offers both style and functionality.
Corner vanity unit wall hung. Such units are triangular and maximize the available space.
Combination vanity unit. It can provide three elements: the basin, toilet and storage space.

You can also find extra large vanity units with loads of storage, as well as double sink vanity units. On the smaller size, a slimline wall hung vanity unit would be ideal.

In terms of corner systems, the sink won’t be affected, but the actual vanity unit will feature a triangular shape. However, you can also find sinks that share the same type of design if you want the washbasin to cover most of the top.

What Are the Standard Sizes for Vanity Units?

Whether you opt for a white wall hung vanity unit or a freestanding unit, there are a few standard sizes out there, not to mention bespoke solutions.

When choosing a vanity unit, it pays off measuring the bathroom upfront, only to calculate the exact space you can use.

Standard sizes are usually given in width and include 320mm, 400mm, 500mm, 600mm and 950mm. You can also go higher with standards like 1,200mm, 1,300mm, 1,500mm and 1,700mm.

Obviously, when choosing a wall hung sink vanity unit, it’s important to do it with the workable space in mind. Most people try to take advantage of every gap and it makes sense. But then, a wall hung vanity unit with a countertop basin that’s too large could cause some issues.

Don’t forget about the door swing either, not just for the actual unit, but also for the bathroom entry.

What Is the Ideal Height for a Wall Hung Vanity Unit and Sink?

Most people don’t realize that vanity units come in all kinds of heights, whether wall hung or freestanding. Failing to consider this aspect could lead to getting the wrong unit for your bathroom.

One way to figure this is to check the current height of your sink setup. If it feels comfortable, there’s no need to change it. If you hunch to wash your hands, you could probably do with a few extra inches.

If your bathroom is under renovation and the sink is no longer there, use the kitchen countertop for guidance. In many houses, the kitchen worktop and bathroom unit are similar in height.

Classic vanity units stand at 800mm, which is usually common for both adults and kids. However, things like plumbing and electrics could affect the overall height and limit your options.

Compared to traditional height standards, the so-called comfort height stands at 900mm.

When it comes to a wall hung vanity unit with ceramic basin, the unit is supported by the frame in the walls. This type of unit gives you plenty of room for customization. Get the sink at the right height and the rest of the unit will just follow up, just make sure it fits underneath.

At this point, there’s no need to conform to any standards. Do keep in mind that sizing could be given in a different manner, depending on where you get it from. For example, a 400mm vanity unit wall hung is about its width, rather than the height.

What Are the Common Materials for a Wall Hung Vanity Unit

There are quite a few traditional materials for vanity units, as well as modern alternatives, that tend to offer better results. Here's what you have to know to pick the perfect wall hung vanity unit for your bathroom.

Solid Wood

Solid wood is durable and resistant, even in a wet environment, but it has to be treated accordingly. It offers a luxurious feel and makes a good long term solution. It’s durable, but it obviously has to be painted or stained to avoid water damage.

Plywood

Plywood is more popular because it’s cheap and can be customized in all kinds of styles and colors. It’s easier to look after than wood, which can warm or expand when exposed to moisture. Some plywood based materials are particularly treated to be water resistant.

MDF

Lacquered MDF is simplistic and makes a good choice for minimalist bathrooms. Usually, MDF is naturally water resistant, but the finishing will make it even better if exposed to too much moisture. It’s lightweight too, so it’s easy to transport.

Mix of PVC and Aluminum

If you’re truly trying to make a difference in both style and durability, opt for materials that can stand the test of time.

These days, while not fully adopted at a large scale production, a mix of PVC and aluminum seems to be the ultimate choice. Such a material is rated to last for a lifetime.

It consists of five layers. The external ones are made of a thin PVC film that’s water resistant, so no issues with moisture there. The next layers are based on an aluminum alloy film, while the central part has a honeycomb aluminum core.

This type of design for a wall hung toilet and vanity unit will never fade away. It won't lose its shape, it won't crack, and it won't get damaged by the exposure to moisture.

Another rare alternative is the DuPont Corian material, which is nonporous and makes a suitable choice for bathrooms. It’s a mix of ceramic and stone. It’s durable and solid, but not as impressive as the PVC and aluminum mix.

new vanity material anti humidity

What to Look for in a Vanity Unit?

There are a few things to do before purchasing a vanity unit.

Assess the Bathroom Space

Measure the whole bathroom, then decide on the workable space. Think about doors, as well as the space available for moving around. Furthermore, while measuring, make sure drains and other pipes are in line with your plan.

In terms of the sizing standards mentioned above, here’s a quick list to help you get an idea:

500mm units are good for small bathrooms with limited space.
600mm units are standard for most bathrooms, decent in size.
800mm units are great for slightly large bathrooms, with plenty of wall space.
1,200mm units are suitable for large bathrooms where space isn’t a problem.

Consider the Material

Assess the pros and cons of each material. There are quite a few options out there. Going cheap is a priority for people trying to save money, but you’ll spend more in the long run when poor quality wood ends up warping or expanding due to moisture.

The mix of PVC and aluminum is currently the best option out there, giving you a lifetime of functionality and style. Whether you want a black wall hung vanity unit or a grey wall hung vanity unit, the material can be customized to match your desired style.

Design Preferences

You’ll find vanity units in all kinds of styles and designs. The visual appeal of the unit isn’t everything, as you need to make sure it matches your bathroom theme as well.

Other than that, you can usually choose between mid-edge basins, minimalist basins and D-shaped basins, among other options. You can even find a wall hung curved vanity unit, which could be very useful in a corner.

How to Install a Floating Vanity Unit?

There are a few steps to install a floating or wall hung vanity unit. First of all, make sure the wall is sturdy enough to support heavy weights.

Mark the perfect location for the mounting brackets, depending on the design and style of the frame and vanity unit. Brackets must be well fitted into the wall, but also level.

The vanity is then mounted on these brackets. Different models have different installation requirements, but the overall principles are the same.

Should you tile the wall behind a vanity unit?

You don’t have to tile behind the unit because no one can see it. Some vanity units have a wall at the back. Others don’t. Even if yours doesn’t have one, finishing or painting the wall is usually more than enough.

Next, you’ll have to connect the water outlets and pipes. The connection should be perfect to prevent leaks. Test the water flow and ensure everything works correctly.

In theory, it sounds easy. Even if you do have some DIY experience, it might be wiser to hire a professional plumber for the job. Unless you’re trained as a plumber, there are too many risks you’re taking here.

How to Maintain a Wall Hung Vanity Unit?

Different materials come with different instructions.

Wood, for example, requires staining or painting every now and then for maintenance. The PVC and aluminum mix doesn’t. MDF doesn’t need much care either. Just stick to clean cloths, slightly damped, that should help you get rid of debris and dust.

Abrasive cleaners and products could damage the waterproof coating, not to mention the finishing.

It’s highly recommended to keep toiletries or whatever goes in the unit organized as well, only to prevent stains and spills. Check for wear and tear every now and then.

Generally speaking, you should also follow the manufacturer’s instructions in terms of maintenance. Your plumber can also give some good recommendations if you’re not sure what to do.