Despite all the advances in bathroom vanity designs in recent years, the pedestal sink is still enormously popular as a sink option in bathrooms, especially powder rooms (i.e. smaller bathrooms).
While on the face of it pedestal sinks may seem fairly basic, the fact is the variety of options is enormous. Pedestal sinks vary in size, color, finish, material, style and shape.
In fact, while the traditional white ceramic pedestal sink is still popular, there are so many other styles you can choose from. Frankly shape and material dictates the appearance significantly (think glass, wood or metal pedestal sink).
Moreover, pedestal sink design continues to evolve along with interior design evolution. As modern design grows in popularity, there are now many modern pedestal sinks available.
Below is our pedestal sink buying guide in which we set out the key variables to consider when buying a pedestal sink, photo examples of the different types followed by a detailed video tutorial on how to install a pedestal sink.
Benefits of Pedestal Sinks
- Look fabulous;
- Easy to clean;
- Many options – size, style, color and material. You can incorporate something unique and beautiful in your bathroom; and
- Fairly small so they are a terrific option for small bathrooms (i.e. powder rooms);
- Inexpensive options; and
- Perfect for powder rooms.
Disadvantages of Pedestal Sinks
- Hot and cold water come out of different faucets (if you get the 3-hole pedestal sink). This disadvantage is eliminated if you get a 1-hole pedestal sink;
- Can be trickier to install because of having to conceal pipes in a smaller space;
- Lacks storage space; and
- Lacks countertop space.
Best Types of Bathrooms for Pedestal Sinks
While our gallery of bathrooms with pedestal sinks showcase some primary bathrooms with pedestal sinks, generally pedestal sinks are used in powder rooms. The reason for this is it’s nice to create a showcase with your powder room (often used by guests) and you don’t have the same bathroom storage requirements in a powder room.
Here’s a photograph of a powder room with a pedestal sink that really makes the powder room:
Types of Pedestal Sinks and Criteria to Consider
A. Pedestal Sink Dimensions
Because pedestal sinks remain popular, especially for powder rooms (which is a standard room in today’s homes), there are many, and I mean many pedestal sink options available.
When choosing a pedestal sink, there are several variables you must consider. They are the following.
1. Basin Width
Basin width refers to the width of the basin (i.e. indebted) portion of the pedestal sink.
2. Basin Length
Basin Length refers to how deep the sink is.
3. Overall Width
Overall width refers to the width of the entire unit.
B. Pedestal Sink Style & Design
1. Faucet Hole Number
Refers to whether it’s a single hole faucet of three hole faucet. A three hole faucet has the spout plus two knobs for water control. A single hole faucet has water control built into the spout.
2. Colors and Finish
There are several pedestal sink and finish options available. The following is a chart setting out the most popular colors and finishes.
3. Pedestal Sink Materials
I think it’s super cool you can buy pedestal sink basins in a variety of materials including ceramic, glass, granite/stone and metal. The array of designs and materials is impressive allowing you to make your bathroom look terrific just from the pedestal sink you choose.
4. Pedestal Sink Shapes
There are 6 main pedestal sink shapes. They are rectangular, round, oval, square, U-shaped and of course specialty shapes.
C. Types of Pedestal Sinks (Picture Examples)
Here are photo examples of the different types of pedestal sinks:
D. How to Install a Pedestal Sink
Once you have your pedestal sink, how do you install it?
You have 2 options:
Option 1: *Go here and hire someone.
Option 2: Bust out your toolbox and get to work.
Here’s a brief video tutorial followed by a text and image tutorial.
The following is a set of screenshots from the Lowe’s video setting out in step-by-step detail how to install a pedestal sink.
A. How to Remove Bathroom Vanity and Sink
1. Turn off water supply.
2. Turn water on to relieve water pressure.
3. Loosen Nuts of Pedestal Sink.
4. Disconnect Water Lines from the Valve.
5. Cut Sealant Along Backsplash of Vanity.
6. Lift Sink and Counter Off Vanity Cabinet.
7. Remove Screws to Remove Vanity Cabinet.
8. Consider Installing New Plumbing While Installing New Pedestal Sink.
B. Installing the Pedestal Sink
9. Find Out if Your Pedestal Requires a Support Board – See Instruction Manual.
10. Mark Sink Height on Wall.
11. Cut Out Part of the Wall Board.
12. Install Support Board with Screws.
13. Mark Center Line on Wall and Floor.
14. Make a Mark 10 Inches from the Wall – Accounting for the Base Board.
15. Position the Pedestal on the Mark.
16. Set Sink Tight Against the Wall.
17. Ensure the Sink is Level.
18. Adjust Pedestal As Needed.
19. Mark the Sinks Anchor Holes on the Wall.
20. Mark Pedestal Hole on the Floor.
21. Remove Sink and Pedestal Aside and Drill the 3 Holes.
22. Install Hanger Bolts in the Wall.
23. Secure Pedestal to the Floor.
24. Attach Faucet and Drain Before Setting Sink on Pedestal.
25. Position Sink Over Hanger Bolts.
26. Ensure Sink is Level.
27. Secure Sink with Cap Nuts and Washers.
28. Reconnect the Drain.
29. Reconnect the Water Supply.
30. Check for Leaks.
31. Consider Adding Mirror and Lighting Fixture.
Screenshot tutorial source: Lowe’s on YouTube
Frequently Asked Questions
How to install pedestal sinks?
You install a pedestal sink by attaching it to the framing of your wall. You must use a mounting brace if your wall does not have the needed framing. This is the primary support for the sink basin. The pedestal’s function is to hold and hide the plumbing.
Are pedestal sinks outdated?
Once upon a time, pedestal sinks were considered vintage, but they are making a large comeback. You can find pedestal sinks in modern homes. They are elegant and simple, and many people are choosing them.
Are pedestal sinks ADA-compliant?
For a pedestal sink to be ADA compliant, the sink must be 27 inches minimum from the ground. In addition, it cannot be higher than 34 inches. This ensures that those who are handicapable can reach the sink bowl and water while having enough space for their knees to fit under the bowl.
What is the standard pedestal sink height?
A pedestal sink is anywhere between 29 inches to 33 inches high.
Where to put soap on the pedestal sink?
A pedestal sink usually has a space on either side of the faucet where you can place your soap. In addition, there is usually an indent that will fit a bottle of soap or a soap dish.
How are pedestal sinks attached?
Pedestal sinks are attached to the bathroom by a mounting brace or framing in the wall.
Can you put a vanity around a pedestal sink?
Yes, you can easily put a vanity around a pedestal sink.
Can you use a pedestal sink without the pedestal?
Yes, you can. The pedestal does not support the sink. It is decorative to cover the pipes. While you can use the sink without the pedestal, you may not like how it looks.
How deep is a pedestal sink?
A typical pedestal sink is 18 inches to 20 inches deep.