Tired of stepping into a tub full of yesterday’s water or hearing a faucet drip all night? These aren’t just annoying - they’re signs you may need urgent bathtub or shower repair.
At Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Ottawa, we specialize in fast, effective bathtub and shower repairs that protect your home from water damage. From clogged drains to cracked fixtures, our skilled plumbers provide targeted solutions tailored to your specific needs.
Why Identifying the Type of Sink Matter
Different lavatory sink types come with unique setups, mounting techniques, and hidden challenges that can affect the ease or difficulty of repairs. Some sinks may seem simple at first glance, but the plumbing hidden behind them can make repairs more challenging than expected.
That's why knowing the type of sink you have can give you a heads-up about the kinds of issues to expect, such as hidden leaks, tricky shut-off valves, or drainage components that are difficult to access or prone to corrosion over time.
Pedestal Sink
Pedestal sinks are a popular option in powder rooms or half-baths where space is limited, and a clean, classic look is desired. These sinks consist of two main components: the basin itself and a supporting leg or “pedestal” beneath it. The leg primarily covers the plumbing and adds a decorative touch to complete the look.
However, from a repair and installation standpoint, pedestal sinks can be tricky. Because all the pipes are tucked behind or within the pedestal, accessing them often means working in a tight space with limited visibility. Despite the challenges, homeowners appreciate pedestal sinks for their compact style and timeless appearance. However, it's essential to note that they offer no under-sink storage.
Wall-Mounted Sink
Wall-mounted sinks are fixed directly to the wall with no supporting pedestal or vanity underneath. It's a solution for bathrooms with limited floor space or those designed with accessibility in mind.
These sinks offer a clean look and are commonly seen in commercial or institutional settings, as well as older homes and apartments. Since they're suspended from the wall, they leave floor space open, which makes repairs generally more accessible.
While not as common in modern homes, wall-mounted sinks remain practical and reliable options, especially for barrier-free bathrooms or when cabinetry is not necessary.
Vessel Sink
Vessel sinks sit entirely on top of the bathroom counter. They come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and materials, from porcelain to glass. This style is popular in custom or upscale renovations because of the statement it makes in any bathroom layout.
However, since they typically lack overflow holes, plumbing codes in Ontario require them to use open-grid drains instead of stoppers. This is because lavatory sinks without overflows don't meet the standard safety requirements for certain types of drainage systems. They also tend to splash more due to the elevated bowl design.
That's why cleaning can be tedious, especially with glass vessels, because water spots, soap residue, and hard water stains are more visible.
Undermount Sink
Undermount sinks are installed beneath the surface of the countertop, creating a seamless transition between the counter and basin. This setup makes it easier to wipe water and debris directly into the sink without hitting a raised rim - which is why it's favoured in high-end bathrooms.
These sinks are almost always paired with solid-surface materials, such as granite or quartz, because the countertop must be strong enough to support the sink's weight and withstand moisture over time.
Although undermount sinks are sleek and practical, their installation is more complex than that of other types. If not properly done, moisture can seep into the counter material and cause warping or mould. However, when done correctly, they provide a polished look that adds value and elegance to any home, making them a worthwhile investment for homeowners who desire both function and form in one package.
Overmount Sink
Overmount sinks, also known as drop-in sinks, are the most common sink style found, particularly in standard installations.
These sinks are installed by "dropping" them into a pre-cut hole in the countertop, with the sink's outer rim resting on the counter's surface. This design makes installation relatively simple and budget-friendly, which is why well-known builders often use overmount sinks by default unless an upgrade is requested.
While they may not deliver the same sleek look as an undermount or vessel sink, they remain a builder's favourite because they're affordable, easy to install, and widely available, making them a practical option for standard bathroom setups.
Know Your Sink Type: A Side-by-Side Comparison
To simplify, this quick comparison breaks down the essentials that enable you to make an informed decision with confidence.
Skip the Guesswork, Know Your Sink
A simple sink issue might seem like something you can ignore until it starts leaking into your cabinet or refuses to drain altogether.
At Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Ottawa, our skilled plumbers are professional with the various sink styles commonly used in Ottawa homes, condos, and rentals. From quick repairs to full replacements, we'll ensure your bathroom fixtures look great and work even better.
Contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Ottawa Today
Contact us today at mrrooter.ca/ottawa/ to schedule your lavatory sink repair. We're available 24/7 to get your bathroom up and running.
