Bathroom countertop: interesting interior and additional work surface

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Despite the small size of the room and limited functionality, a lot of space is required to place various products and hygiene items in bathrooms. For such purposes, bedside tables, racks, pencil cases, shelves - furniture for storage - are equipped. But during use, bottles and tubes have to be placed on the side of the sink. A countertop in the bathroom will help solve this problem.

The bathroom countertop is a new fashion trend dictated by convenience and functionality.

Types of countertops: a variety of shapes and installation methods

Beauty and comfort are the basis of any successful interior. It is to enhance the feeling of comfort that many people prefer to have a countertop in the bathroom. The free horizontal surface allows you to place on it a lot of objects that are used during water procedures and other hygienic actions. Using a hairdryer, preparing cosmetic masks, and medicinal compositions is much more convenient if there is a countertop in the bathroom.

The bathroom module must have a neat and tidy appearance

Various materials can be used to make this type of furniture:

• wood and wood panels;
• natural and artificial stone;
• plastic;
• glass;
• ceramic tile;
• drywall.

As for the interior design, it is provided by a combination of material and shape of the structure. The standard countertop option is a rectangular slab. It may have a bedside table or shelf at the bottom. Designers have developed many models of shaped countertops, where a rounded part can protrude in the sink area or the entire line of the outer edge can be wavy. The countertop in the bathroom under the sink and washing machine can have several levels. The sink is often “recessed”, built-in, but can also be placed on top of the countertop.

The entire variety of countertops on the market can be divided into several categories depending on the material.

Based on the installation method, the following types of structures are distinguished:

• floor - installed on the floor;
• wall-mounted – mounted on brackets to the walls.

As for placement, countertops are usually mounted along walls, in niches or in corner positions. Less often they can be islands. This method significantly complicates the installation of communications: ensuring a slope and sealing pipes requires a significant rise in the floor level.

Assembly of the structure

The first plywood layer is secured especially securely, since the structure should not move. The screws should have a length of approximately 4-8 cm. A layer of plywood is installed in the side ties of the body in the lower part. To secure it, you will need 3-4 screws on each side. The side walls are extended to this layer of the tabletop using metal corners and self-tapping screws.

Fig 1. Beacon installation diagram.

Glue is applied to the top of the plywood sheet, which is intended for working with wood; you can use wood glue, PVA or similar, but it must be moisture resistant. The adhesive composition must be applied to the base in a zigzag manner. Another layer of plywood needs to be pressed and tightened with self-tapping screws. To prevent the heads of the screws from sticking out, you will need to use a drill to countersink the places where they are secured in advance. Self-tapping screws are located around the perimeter and in the middle of the sheets, and the step should be 15 cm. A strip of plywood, which has a width of 4 cm, is attached to the resulting edges using self-tapping screws. The upper part of the plywood is cut using a disk on an angle grinder.

A painting mesh is attached to the top of the second layer of material using a construction stapler, the cell pitch of which is 1-2 cm. The mesh is placed on the side edges of the sheets and is fastened with tension. It is important to secure the mesh securely and evenly.

It is recommended to cover the edges of the plywood with masking tape and burlap, and then coat them with tile adhesive. Next, the edges are treated with a waterproofing compound. The joints between countertops and walls are impregnated with silicone sealant.

The procedure for laying end tiles.

At this stage, the countertop can be covered with porcelain stoneware. All that remains is to properly treat it with a composition to protect it from moisture. In this case, you can use ready-made compositions or make the mixture yourself using liquid glass, latex, water and fine sand. After this, the surface is dried and coated.

The contact surface for cladding can be made additionally.

There are two options:

1. The tiles are laid out on a moisture-resistant gypsum fiber sheet or on a DSP sheet.
2. The tiles are laid on a layer of cement to ensure durability and reliability of the structure.

Practicality and elitism: a bathroom countertop under a sink made of natural stone

The bathroom is the most problematic room due to high humidity levels. That is why all interior elements must be moisture resistant, and parts in contact with water must be as waterproof as possible.

A real indicator of the luxury and wealth of the residents is a countertop made of natural stone

Natural stone has the necessary physical and technical qualities. To its positive characteristics it is worth adding environmental friendliness and a presentable appearance. A stone countertop in a bathroom most often forms the basis of the interior.

The following types of stone are used as manufacturing materials:

• granite;
• marble;
• onyx;
• travertine.

Processing requires the use of high-precision equipment, so countertops made of such material have a high price.

Helpful advice! You should purchase a countertop made of natural stone with a hole already made for installing a sink. It is almost impossible to do it at home, without special equipment.

The unusual texture and incomparable appearance of a countertop made of natural stone immediately attracts the eye.

In terms of prestige and performance characteristics, marble comes first. It is recommended for use in rooms with sufficient area. Countertops made from such stone are heavy and require strong supports.

Second place is shared by granite and travertine. Travertine products are less flashy, have a grayish or beige tint, and therefore can be combined with various types of interiors. Among the ready-made options offered there are many products of interesting configurations.

The countertop and sink in the bathroom should form a single composition; dark granite countertops and white porcelain sinks are an excellent option.

Furniture made from natural stone can really last for decades

Products made from onyx have an affordable price. This material is distinguished by a variety of shades and a visually interesting multi-layer structure. In terms of performance characteristics, it is not inferior to any of the above types of stone.

Features of artificial stone bathroom countertops

Artificial stone got its name not only because of its external resemblance to natural stone. Its structure and density are also similar to natural materials. Artificial stone countertops for bathrooms have the following positive characteristics:

• environmentally friendly, do not emit harmful substances;
• moisture resistant;

It is not recommended to install stone countertops yourself

• durable;
• differ in a variety of colors;
• have a reasonable price.

Many people prefer artificial stone. There are three types of this material:

1. Artificial stones made on the basis of polyester resins and natural filler. These include quartz and marble agglomerates, cast marble, etc.
2. Acrylic stones. They contain mineral filler, color pigments and acrylic resin.
3. Concrete-based material with the addition of plasticizers and dyes.

Marble countertops will be an excellent solution when arranging a large bathroom with a minimalist design.

The most popular stone countertops for the bathroom are acrylic products. This material contains only 7% natural additives, which makes them light and flexible. Such countertops can be assembled from several parts, and the joint remains invisible after sanding. The disadvantage of the acrylic surface is that it is exposed to high temperatures - hot objects cannot be placed.

Quartz artificial stone consists of 90% natural material. The manufacturing technology is quite complex, the products are heavy, and are particularly durable, surpassing the performance of individual natural stones.

Concrete products often imitate natural stone. Mass production has not become widespread, but exclusive options are in demand.

Countertops made of artificial stone are universal interior items

Advantages of glass countertops for bathroom sinks

The trend towards using glass in furniture and other household items has extended to bathrooms. Cabinets, shelves, curtains and tabletops meet all the necessary requirements:

• glass products are completely unaffected by moisture and temperature changes;
• easy to install;
• non-bulky, visually (and often actually) save space;
• easy to care for;
• characterized by a variety of designs.

Glass table top fits harmoniously into many modern interior styles

To make a bathroom countertop, the following types of glass are used:

• classic (usually called window);
• hardened;
• triplex;
• reinforced (rarely used).

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During decorative processing, transparent glass can become matte, colored, tinted, or have a pattern on the surface.

The thickness of the ordinary glass used to make the tabletop must be at least 6 mm, otherwise the risk of damage will be very high.

As a rule, furniture made of glass is sold with precisely sized sinks.

Helpful advice! Using transparent glass, it is better to choose brackets for the bathroom countertop with a decorative design. Otherwise, the appearance of the structure will seem primitive.

Tempered glass is the most widely used. With a thickness of 8-10 mm, it can only be broken by an object weighing 6 kg thrown from a height of 1.5 m. Even in this case, it will shatter into small pieces that do not have sharp edges. Triplex also provides a sufficient level of safety: a special polymer film holds the fragments when broken.

Both triplex and tempered glass are difficult to process. Making a hole in hardened material is almost impossible. That is why you should purchase glass countertops with ready-made holes for the sink.

Wooden countertop in the bathroom: durability with proper treatment

The proximity of moisture and wood is not considered mutually beneficial. But stubborn facts try to contradict this: rafts, boats, tubs retain their integrity for decades under active use. Therefore, it is necessary to select the right material and make the product.

Wooden bathroom countertops are made mainly from oak, larch and teak. The structure of these trees is quite dense, which does not allow moisture to penetrate into the pores, and the products do not swell or crack. Moisture resistance is enhanced by the treatment of external surfaces: the countertops are impregnated and painted. With good preparation, wooden structures can be used in bathrooms for decades.

The wood module is aesthetically pleasing and absolutely harmless to health

Wood boards are often used as a material for countertops. They form the base, which is covered with veneer. When making such options, it is important to seal the seams hermetically. They are the most vulnerable place for moisture penetration.

A wooden countertop brings coziness to the bathroom with its environmental friendliness and warm shades. The products are popular and have a lower price compared to natural stone. Industrial versions of wooden countertops can be made in two ways:

• gluing bars of the same size into a shield;
• splicing bars like parquet.

To ensure that a wooden product in the bathroom lasts a long time, you should listen to some simple tips:

1. After water procedures, drops and traces of moisture from the surface of the countertop should be removed. Prolonged exposure to water deteriorates wood over time.
2. It is better to avoid mechanical damage. They destroy the top layer, cracks and chips appear into which moisture will penetrate.
3. It is necessary to control the tightness of the seams.

It is also worth noting that wood lends itself well to processing. Therefore, bathroom countertops can be real works of art.

The naturalness of a wooden countertop will fill the bathroom with warmth and comfort

Tile countertop in the bathroom: affordability and decorativeness

The tabletop completes the interior. Considering that wall cladding and floor coverings are mainly made of tiles, then such a tabletop will be a unique opportunity to add special originality to the design of the room. Here you can experiment with sizes (large squares on the floor, medium ones on the walls, small squares on the surface under the sink), color, and shape.

Helpful advice! You should not use tiles with a matte and glossy surface in the same interior to decorate a bathroom. This combination seems random.

Tile countertop models are characterized by a low price

The following tile covering technology can be used:

1. A wooden countertop is being made for the bathroom sink. It must be done on strong racks.
2. Sides are attached to the upper plane, allowing the installation of insulating material and tile laying compound.
3. The tiles are being laid.
4. The seams are sealed with a special compound.

This surface is very durable and can be easily cleaned with a sponge and a small amount of detergent. Tile countertop models are characterized by a low price. This is one of the inexpensive product options. Decorative properties make tiles a universal finish; depending on the specific appearance, they can be used in interiors of any style.

For tiled surfaces, there are two possible ways to install a bathroom sink:

• built-in under the countertop;
• installed on the surface.

In cases where sinks are built in, the hole is taken into account when constructing the frame and laying down the waterproofing and adhesive composition.

Originality and features of the perception of mosaic countertops in the bathroom

A special type of tile finish for a sink countertop is mosaic. Mosaic is a pattern that can be made from different materials. Manufacturers offer a variety of patterns and sizes of tiles designed specifically for this type of cladding.

The process of laying mosaics is more complex and time-consuming than tiles.

It is very important to choose a size that matches the dimensions of the room. In large rooms these can be fragments of 50x50 cm or more. For small bathrooms, it is better to use 5x5 or 8x8 cm tiles. Such cladding will help to visually expand the space.

A skillfully selected color scheme will create a unique interior. The beauty of mosaic is that it disperses perception and takes away from the geometricity and monotony of bathroom surfaces. The pattern may be repeating, or it may not follow a pattern. The color scheme either matches the decoration of the walls (more often this option is used when using materials in light or pastel colors), or creates a contrast and is more expressive.

Tiles are available with textured and smooth surfaces. The latter is easier to care for, since detergent residues and limescale do not accumulate in the recesses. For mosaic models, both sinks built into the countertop and those installed on it are suitable.

It should be noted that the process of laying mosaics, although it repeats the technology of installing tiles, is more complex and labor-intensive. The quality of seam sealing is of particular relevance - mosaic countertops have much more of them.

Acrylic countertop for the bathroom: do not reject plastic

It’s worth clarifying right away that this section of the article is not devoted to artificial stone products that contain acrylic resin (such material is often called “acrylic stone”). The information posted concerns products made from acrylic polymer.

The list of advantages of an acrylic countertop should include its resistance to moisture and low cost.

Do not rush to reject this option. And primarily for the reason that in terms of performance characteristics it is not much inferior to others. Moisture resistance and hygiene are fully ensured. Water does not damage the surface, the development of microbes and bacteria is excluded.

A plastic bathroom countertop has a number of advantages:

• has a low price;
• light;
• Wide variety of shades available;
• does not require the use of special cleaning agents - the most common composition will be effective.

The plastic module maintains the integrity of the coating for a long time of use

There can be two complaints about countertops of this type:

• unpresentable appearance, this problem can be solved by color;
• low resistance to mechanical damage.

Considering the specifics of the premises, the last drawback should also not be considered critical. All items potentially intended to be placed on the countertop do not have much weight, sharp corners, protrusions, etc. Therefore, the integrity of the outer coating can be maintained for a long time of use.

Important! An acrylic countertop cannot be processed at home without losing its aesthetics. It is worth purchasing products with dimensions that suit you fully.

The plastic bathroom countertop is lightweight and comes in a variety of colors.

Bathroom countertop made of plasterboard: a minimum of funds and the embodiment of the most daring ideas

Drywall is a universal material that allows you to create incredible designs in residential premises at low financial and physical costs. And the process itself is available to anyone who wants to get down to business on their own.

If the use of gypsum material is based on the technology of manufacturing bathroom countertops from wood (making a module and applying a coating), you can create an interesting interior option.

To make the tabletop, you must use 12.5 mm moisture-resistant plasterboard. The profile supporting the horizontal surface should have an interval of no more than 20 cm. This will maintain the integrity of the product. Next we will talk not about tiles, but about acrylic putty. It is applied in a layer of at least 5 mm, sanded, and the top of the product is coated with acrylic paint.

Restoring or replacing the surface of a plasterboard tabletop is not difficult

The model can be very diverse: with a shelf, multi-level, with protrusions, etc.

When planning a plasterboard structure, it is worth considering two points:

1. The countertop installed in the bathroom should not support the sink with all its additional plumbing fixtures. It is better if they have independent fastening.
2. The side of the cutout for the sink must also be covered with putty and a protective layer of paint.

To be fair, it should be noted that this type of tabletop cannot be classified as a strong and durable product. But it will provide the necessary comfort for a certain time. And it will not be difficult to restore or replace the surface in such a design.

Plasterboard countertops can be painted in any color or shade

Installation nuances

Any construction process requires skill. If this is your first experience working with tiles, then it is better to choose a small countertop for renovation. The principle of covering walls and countertops is the same. The edges and ends of the tabletop are decorated with special ceramic corners or elements made of wood or aluminum. During repairs, several subtleties should be taken into account:

• To finish the countertop, you can specifically buy materials or use leftovers. When laying it yourself, it can be difficult to accurately calculate the amount of material. Therefore, it is necessary to buy tiles slightly larger than the table area required (about 10-15%). If several types of remains have been preserved, the surface is decorated in the form of a mosaic. Moreover, the elements are selected to be of the same thickness. And to cut mosaics they use a tile cutter;
• The table surface must be absolutely flat and clean. If the base of the tabletop is wooden, then it is treated with moisture-proof impregnation. For reliability, the base can be attached to the wall. The plywood base is made from two multi-layer sheets and attached to the furniture with self-tapping screws;

Stylish kitchen in a modern style

• Various adhesives are suitable for installation: carpentry glue, special wood glue, cement-sand mortar with the addition of PVA. To apply the glue evenly, use a spatula. It takes 12-14 hours for it to stick well.

The finishing touch is the use of silicone sealant or epoxy resin grout.

To do the job efficiently, it is advisable to use a rubber spatula. The joints must be filled with high quality - the strength of the countertop finish depends on this. After a day, the remaining grout is removed. If you first apply masking tape, the process of removing grout residue will be quick and clean.

Loft style

Bathroom countertop sinks: stylish and durable designs

Installing a countertop-sink is a convenient and compact option for arranging a bathroom. The structure is a monolith made of a homogeneous composition. In modern industry, the following materials are used for the manufacture of such modules:

• porcelain;
• ceramics;
• faience;
• artificial and natural stone;
• glass;
• polymers.

In order for the countertop installed under the sink in the bathroom to serve for years, first of all, it must be moisture resistant

There are several advantages to monolithic structures that combine a sink and a countertop:

• the products do not have seams or joints, so the problem of high humidity does not exist for them;
• the models have a laconic design that appeals to many customers;
• placement of modules is appropriate in rooms of various sizes.

Even despite the heavy weight (and this is the case with almost all similar products), installation does not cause difficulties: the monolith is placed on supports, a bedside table, and attached to brackets or consoles.

As for the performance characteristics of a sink with a countertop, the quality of the material used is important. Products made from porcelain, earthenware, and glass are the best to clean, and there are practically no restrictions on the use of products. Natural stone sinks are more difficult to maintain in proper condition, since even with seemingly ideal polishing, pores still occur.

Tabletop sinks made of plastic with ceramic inserts have proven themselves well. The products are durable, relatively light and inexpensive.

As for the shape, in almost all designs the sink is located below the level of the upper plane. The countertop can be located on one side of the sink, on both sides, be rectangular, round, shaped, etc.

Helpful advice! Considering the discreet design of countertop sinks, faucets of this type should be purchased for them, otherwise the product will lose its charm.

Installing a sink-countertop in the bathroom will not be difficult

Variety of countertop materials

Products for the bathroom differ from similar countertops for the kitchen in the conditions of use and perceived loads. Special strength is important for kitchens, and moisture resistance is important for bathrooms. It is these features that provide a wide choice of materials for making surfaces.

Types of artificial stone countertops for the bathroom

A bathroom countertop made of artificial stone is visually similar to natural one. It is made from marble chips. There are also models made from granite particles. The connecting link is acrylic. Their second name is acrylic countertops. They have almost all the properties of natural products. The positive thing is that they are affordable.

However, they also have disadvantages. Countertops with a sink made of artificial stone are less resistant to mechanical stress. In addition, they weigh a lot. Minor damage during operation can be removed by polishing, which you can do yourself using a special drill attachment and polishing paste.

Artificial stone surface

Types of wooden bathroom countertops

Artificial and natural stones have been replaced by wooden surfaces. They are much cheaper than stone countertops, and they are also repairable. They can be easily replaced with new ones in case of unforeseen situations. The most important advantage of wood is the creation of soft comfort and warmth in the bathroom.

It is a mistake to think that wood is afraid of moisture, because ships made of this material have been plying the surface of the water for years. You just need to choose treatment compounds for rooms with high humidity.

Not every tree is suitable for use as a tabletop. From practice, designers recommend choosing the following breeds.

• oak surfaces;
• larch countertops;
• teak bases.

These are the densest materials, which means they are less susceptible to moisture. High-quality processing will allow the surface to be used for a long time. Wooden countertops for the bathroom can be made from prefabricated products, made in the form of individual bars, treated with special anti-corrosion and antibacterial compounds. The final product must be coated with several layers of a special varnish composition with protective functions against moisture.

Manufacturers offer combined surfaces made of artificial material and lined with natural wood. This proposal is inexpensive and looks quite stylish in the interior of the bathroom.

Advice! It is recommended to wipe surfaces until dry after washing.

Wooden surfaces

Glass countertop in the bathroom

The use of glass countertops for the bathroom is quite popular due to its low cost. Its production does not require the use of a complex technological process.

Surfaces are endowed with undeniable advantages:

• strength;
• resistance to mechanical stress;
• moisture resistance;
• varied performance.

Negative aspects include the formation of limescale, which must be removed quite often using household chemicals.

Glass table tops

Marble surfaces

Using a marble countertop under a bathroom sink is the choice of sophisticated homeowners. This is a fairly expensive high quality product. Marble is mined in different parts of the world, so the natural patterns are varied.

One of the undeniable advantages of marble is its beautiful aging. Over the years, the slab will acquire individuality; signs of wear will only emphasize the natural beauty of the patterns.

Before choosing such a surface, it is important to know about some features of use.

• marble requires daily care. If household chemicals are used, they must be removed from surfaces immediately. The stone is especially afraid of coloring pigments. Water leaves greenish marks. The porous structure will immediately absorb everything, it will be impossible to remove it;
• tendency to form cracks. This can be prevented by making rounded surfaces. Direct mechanical impact should also be avoided.

No other surface can compare with the beauty of marble. A variety of shades allows you to choose the necessary solution for your bathroom interior.

Marble base

Plastic base for sink

A plastic countertop can become a beautiful and unique element of your bathroom design. A variety of options can satisfy even the most demanding buyer.

This is a fairly new proposal in the design of bathrooms. The structures are made hermetically due to the absence of connecting elements.

Advantages of plastic bathroom countertops.

• practical use is achieved due to increased resistance to moisture;
• plastic does not react to household chemicals;
• resistance to mechanical damage;
• the countertops are quite light, which greatly facilitates installation;
• the antibacterial properties of plastic prevent the development of fungus and mold;
• wide range of models;
• low cost;
• plastic does not fade, over the years its appearance remains pristine;
• surfaces do not absorb third-party odors.

Affordable prices and a variety of design options, both in geometry and color, make plastic accessible to most consumers with different budgets.

Plastic table top

Sink on the countertop in the bathroom: which bowl to choose

The standard installation method is an under-counter sink. It’s convenient, familiar, and sometimes seems like the only possible option. But supporters of original bathroom design are increasingly paying attention to sinks that are placed above the countertop. Although it would be more appropriate to call them “bowls”.

They are made from the same materials as the mortise versions; we can only add that such models are also made of glass and metal. The shape is usually round, sometimes oval. Exclusive options can be made in the form of a petal, an irregular triangle, etc.

A sink mounted on a countertop makes the design lighter and more interesting.

Is this method of placing a washbasin convenient? According to users, this depends on the shape and depth of the bowl, its level and the spout of the mixer. Same features as built-in models. Therefore, the conclusion suggests itself that this installation method only affects the interior design.

A sink on a countertop, in particular a glass one, makes the design lighter and more interesting. It should be noted that overhead bowls, especially original shapes, are not always convenient. Splashes of water do not flow down the flat walls, but hit the vertical side surfaces. The small size of the sinks can be organic in the overall design, but it is sometimes impossible to wash your face without splashes flying around.

Overhead bowls are not always easy to use and maintain

Another difficulty arises in the maintenance process: it is necessary to constantly clean not only the internal, but also the external surface.

Helpful advice! Even the most original bowl will lose its charm if there are traces of drops and detergents on it. It is impossible to clean the surface after every hand washing. It is better to sacrifice the decorativeness of the product and purchase an option where the dirt will be less noticeable.

Models of vanity cabinets with a countertop for the bathroom

To store hygiene, detergents and cleaning products in the bathroom, some prefer wall cabinets and shelves, others choose floor furniture - bedside tables. It is very convenient to place the latter under the tabletop. In addition to storing many items, they allow you to hide communication elements: drainage and water supply to the sink. For a bathroom with a countertop, it is very important to correctly determine the dimensions of the cabinet. Even with significant dimensions of the tabletop, it is not at all necessary to make the cabinet large; this solid design can look too bulky and take up a lot of space.

The bedside table should be functional, original and fit harmoniously into the bathroom interior

It is most convenient to purchase a ready-made option, that is, a cabinet where the top part is a tabletop. If you have to order additional furniture, you should consider the following tips:

1. As a material, it is necessary to choose only moisture-resistant types. Even with the most careful use, drops of water will inevitably fall on the front of the cabinet, and after a couple of months you will be able to see signs of swelling on the doors and drawers.
2. The fittings should also be used with a coating that protects against corrosion. Damage to handles and hinges will significantly reduce the aesthetics of the appearance.
3. If necessary, you can make the bedside table hinged to save space.
4. The depth of the structure should not be adjusted to the size of the bathroom. The countertop should hang 5-10 cm above the cabinet. This will protect it from water getting onto the facade and provide free access to the sink and faucet.

To save bathroom space, the bedside table can be made hanging

The Internet offers a lot of ideas that allow you to make a bedside table functional, original and fit harmoniously into the interior.

Shelf under the sink in the bathroom: design requirements

After installing a sink with a countertop in the bathroom, quite a lot of space remains under the structure, which is traditionally used for storing various tools, equipment and other items. The bedside table option is already covered in the article. You can also arrange one or more shelves. Open furniture in the bathroom has certain advantages:

1. You can take and return objects without additional actions. Considering that hands are often dirty or wet, this is important.
2. Open surfaces dry out better, which prevents the appearance of mold and other traces of dampness.
3. The cleaning process is simplified.

Connection to communications under the shelf should be as neat and aesthetic as possible

Among the finished products, a set with a bedside table is easy to find, but shelves often have to be ordered additionally. A good solution could be to make a shelf from the same material as the tabletop, but with adjusted dimensions. This option may not be acceptable for products made of natural stone.

If you can’t replicate the design of the countertop, you can choose a matching material for the bathroom sink: white porcelain and earthenware harmonize perfectly with acrylic or wood board of the same color; ceramics – with natural wood; A similar shelf will help enhance the external effect of the original glass bowl.

Helpful advice! When arranging shelves under the countertop, you need to carefully consider the placement and appearance of plumbing fixtures. Connection to communications should be as neat, uncluttered and aesthetic as possible.

A shelf under the sink makes cleaning much easier

Sink and washing machine under one countertop

Placing the washing machine under the countertop in the bathroom is at least a rational way of placement. Space is saved and an additional horizontal surface appears for storing various items. As for the materials for manufacturing, almost all the same ones are used as for other types of products.

Dimensions matter, since installation of the machine and sink will require more length. If a built-in sink is intended, it is shifted to one side on the countertop. With the overhead version of the washbasin, it can also occupy a central position, if only the conditions allow connecting communications.

By placing the sink and machine under one countertop, you can save space in a small bathroom

The standard height of automatic washing machines is 85 cm. If we take into account that a technical gap of 3-4 cm is required between the outer surface of the washing machine and the countertop, the total height of the structure will be 92-96 cm. This level is inconvenient for using the sink. You can install a countertop consisting of several parts: above the machine it is higher, in the sink area it is 10-12 cm lower. Among the monolithic models, there are no multi-level countertops, but it is quite possible to find or make such a structure from acrylic, wood, wood boards and artificial stone.

In a very small bathroom, the washing machine can be installed not just under the countertop, but under the sink. To do this, you should purchase a machine with a height of 60 cm.

Choosing dimensions: depth and height of the countertop in the bathroom

The installation height of the countertop in the bathroom, or more precisely, the level of placement of the sink in it, is very important for comfortable use. At one time, institutes were studying the correct position of plumbing fixtures. The results of the work are reflected in GOST and SNiP. According to the standards, the height of the sink from the floor level should be 80-85 cm. Washbasins with a stand (leg), produced by modern enterprises, have a height of 82 cm. These standards should be used as a starting point when installing countertops with a sink.

The height of the sink from the floor level should be 80-85 cm

Other dimensions are also important for comfortable use. These include the depth of the tabletop. The location of the sink can be calculated taking into account the following indicators:

1. The standard depth (distance from the outer edge to the wall) of the bowl of a full-size factory washbasin is 50 cm. The stream of water from the mixer is 30 cm away from the outer edge of the washbasin. With this position of the plumbing fixtures, it is convenient to draw water in the palm of your hand and lean over the bowl.
2. If the countertop is much deeper (65-70 cm), the sink needs to be moved to the outer edge, otherwise it will be necessary to reach far and wash over the countertop.
3. When installing a sink on a countertop in a bathroom, the importance of dimensional indicators increases: it is extremely inconvenient to bend over a remote, elevated bowl.

Helpful advice! If the front of a floor-mounted cabinet (or shelf in the lower position) is placed in line with the outer edge of the countertop, access to the sink will be difficult.

Established standards should be followed when installing countertops with a sink

Different ways to install countertops in the bathroom

Depending on the design features, there are three main ways to install countertops:

• for furniture - it can be a cabinet or a pencil case;
• on the floor - using legs or other types of supports;
• on the wall - using frames and brackets.

Before starting any type of installation, it is necessary to install the sink into the countertop. Next, it will have to be dismantled while the structure is being assembled. This stage cannot be ignored, since it is extremely difficult to make a hole in the fixed surface and even make the markings correctly. An exception may be monolithic versions of products.

The most optimal, but complex and expensive way to install a tabletop is on frames or brackets

Fastening to furniture is the easiest type of installation. Metal corners are applied to the walls of the furniture and tabletops, then fixed with self-tapping screws, screws or a special adhesive composition - depending on the material of manufacture of the main structural elements.

Installation on legs is practically no different from this process in the manufacture of furniture tables. Markings are made on the inside of the tabletop; if necessary, holes are prepared for self-tapping screws. If the tabletop is fixed with glue, for structural rigidity the legs are first connected with additional bars or a metal profile.

The most optimal, but complex and costly installation method is on frames or brackets. It is worth noting that in this case the countertop sink in the bathroom does not need to be pre-installed.

The ease of use of a countertop under a bathroom sink largely depends on the base to which it is attached

The brackets should be chosen to be strong - from a metal angle or a pipe with a square cross-section. It is better if the fastenings are reinforced with diagonal elements. It is important not only to securely fix them to the tabletop, but also to firmly attach them to the wall.

Metal frames are fixed in a similar way. Their additional convenience is that you can hang towels on the crossbars.

Important! The siphon to the sink and the frame mount must be made in the same style, otherwise the design will lose its attractiveness.

Today there are two types of countertop bases: wall-mounted and floor-mounted.

Making the base of a future bathroom countertop with your own hands

3 sections of cabinet furniture are taken as a basis:

• cabinet under the sink, size 500x560x820;
• cabinet with retractable shelves 500Х560Х820;
• two-door cabinet, size 600x560x820.

In the future, the cabinets will be lined up along the bathroom wall. The section will be 1600 mm long and 560 mm wide.

To work you will need

Diagram of the grinder device.

Tools:

• Angle grinder (grinder) and disc on tiles;
• rasp (for processing the edges of cut tiles);
• putty knife;
• notched spatula;
• rags;
• jigsaw;
• stainless steel screws (3.5-3.8 cm) 200-400 pieces;
• felt-tip pen;
• pencil;
• electric drill;
• mixer;
• wood drill (5-6 mm);
• bucket for solution.

Materials:

• tile adhesive;
• crosses for tiles 2.5-3 mm;
• silicone sealant;
• protective composition for wood processing;
• primer;
• wood glue;
• waterproofing compound or quartz sand + liquid glass.

Scheme for installing overlays on the tabletop.

The base of the table top should be made of two sheets of softwood plywood, dimensions 1500 X 1500 X 20 grade FB or FSF.

FB is bakelized waterproof plywood (impregnated with bakelite varnish). This moisture-resistant plywood can be used in seawater and hot, humid climates.

FSF is a waterproof plywood glued with phenolic resin. Moisture-resistant plywood can be used outdoors.

Fastening the plywood must be done in at least 2 layers, overlapping. Before starting work, the plywood must be properly treated with bitumen mastic or a waterproofing compound for wood and impregnation.

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Plywood should be cut taking into account that the fibers in all layers should run along the section. The plywood should protrude from the walls of the section on all sides by 3-5 cm. The joints of the plywood strips should not overlap the hole that needs to be cut for the sink. Plywood should be cut using a jigsaw.

The design will be quite heavy, so there is no need to skimp on the legs for the body.

The first layer of plywood must be fastened especially securely. The structure should be motionless. You need to attach the first layer of plywood to the side ties of the housings from below with your own hands (3-4 self-tapping screws on each side). The side walls must be tightened with self-tapping screws (1.5-1.8 cm) to the first layer of the future tabletop using metal corners.

Then you need to apply wood glue (wood glue, moisture-resistant PVA) to the top layer of plywood. The glue must be moisture resistant. It should be applied to the surface in a zigzag manner, and then the second layer of plywood should be pressed and tightened with self-tapping screws. To prevent the caps from sticking out, you need to first countersink the places where the screws will be attached with a drill. It is necessary to place screws in 15 cm increments both around the perimeter and deep into the sheets.

Using a stapler, you need to attach a painting mesh with a mesh size of 0.5-2 cm to the top of the second layer of plywood. It needs to be placed on the side edges of the plywood sheet and fastened with tension.

DIY countertop for bathroom sink

An original and inexpensive option for a bathroom countertop would be a concrete product. This design can be made with your own hands. Tools and materials you will need:

• cement M-400, river sand, gravel, glass cullet, plasticizer, dyes, varnish;
• wooden blocks, MDF sheet (laminated), slats;
• hammer, jigsaw, screwdriver (or screwdriver), self-tapping screws.

A rectangular sheet corresponding to the size of the future surface is cut out of an MDF sheet. Then, using a jigsaw, you make a hole for the sink in the countertop. It is better to equip a small bathroom with a medium-sized design.

When installing the countertop, you must follow a certain procedure.

Next, the MDF blank should be turned over and the legs should be attached to it. Then put it in its normal position and make a side of slats along the edge of the perimeter, including a cutout for the sink.

It is necessary to prepare a mixture of cement, sand, gravel and add a plasticizer. Dyes and broken glass can be distributed unevenly, this will only enhance the decorative effect of the tabletop. Pour the mixture into the prepared countertop mold.

Wait until the solution has completely hardened, then remove the sides, sand the outer and side surfaces and varnish.

A hand-made bathroom countertop will not only bring pleasure from creative creative work, but will also become a durable and reliable structure, resistant to the constant companions of the bathroom - high humidity and temperature changes.

The process of installing a wooden countertop in the form of a shelf will not cause difficulties even for an inexperienced craftsman

Criteria for choosing a countertop for a bathroom sink

When choosing a countertop for a bathroom, you should take into account the high humidity of the room. In addition, it should not be bulky and take up space.

The main requirements for countertops for bathroom sinks:

• the surface must be resistant to moisture;
• anti-corrosion coating;
• resistance to care products;
• Beautiful design;
• capacity.

Operational parameters depend on the manufacturing and installation method. Bathroom countertops can be glass, wood or stone. The retail chain offers products in different price ranges. MDF or chipboard surfaces are more accessible to the general consumer. A variety of shapes and sizes allow you to fit harmoniously and practically into any bathroom space.

Wooden version

Countertop options for a countertop bathroom sink

Countertops with an overhead sink can be made of moisture-resistant plasterboard or laid out of brick. There are many options for execution. Surfaces are painted with water-based paints or finished with mosaic tiles. Overhead bathroom sinks can be made of faience, metal, glass or stone.

Sinks made from natural stones look luxurious and impressive. This is a rather expensive choice. An alternative can be artificial materials, which are not inferior in quality to expensive ones. Glass bowls look elegant, especially if they are installed on a marble surface.

Glass on marble