Wall-Mounted vs Floor-Standing Vanity Units: Which One Is Right for You?

wall-mounted vs floor standing vanity unit

When people choose or redesign their bathroom, the most significant decision is the kind of vanity unit to be installed. If they were primarily differentiated on design, there are two main types of vanity units: wall-mounted and floor-standing. This article sheds light on the differences between these two types to enable you to choose the best type for your bathroom.

Table of Contents

Key Differences: Wall-Mounted vs Floor-Standing

At first glance, both vanity units serve the same primary function: They provide storage, within the garden and the basin area. However, their design and installation make them suitable for different places according to everyone’s taste and feel.

  • Wall-Mounted Vanity Units: These are mounted on the wall with a gap beneath them. They are stylish, contemporary, and valuable in bathrooms or even cloakrooms with a restricted floor area.
  • Floor Standing Vanity Units: These vanities are mounted directly onto the floor; they offer more storage capacity and a traditional floor-level feel. They are easier to install, and a broader variety of conventional and modern designs exist.

Key Factors to Consider

Space

Knowing the size of your bathroom is essential when choosing between traditional vanity units and contemporary vanities.

  • Wall-Mounted Vanity Units: Unlike floor-mounted ones, the walls do not occupy much space and make the bathroom look even more open. The living space directly underneath the unit adds spaciousness, which is helpful in small bathroom enclosing areas.
  • Floor-Standing Vanity Units: These vanities are larger in terms of appearance and size, but they stay open and, therefore, can be more useful in larger bathrooms or those where occupants require more shelving.

Style

The appearance of your bathroom will considerably define your choice depending on the desired looks.

  • Wall-Mounted Vanity Units: Wall-hung furniture is more in demand in terms of designs of Modern bathroom vanity bathroom furniture. It is simple and stylish, and its floating design gives it a clean look and feel that is right at home when accompanied by modern fixtures and fittings.
  • Floor-Standing Vanity Units: If you prefer a classic or colonial appearance, a floor-standing vanity is in order. These units provide a firm physical look and feel to your bathroom, stabilising its design.

Budget

Your budget is always an important consideration whenever you want to buy any fixture in the bathroom.

  • Wall-Mounted Vanity Units: Wall-mounted systems are generally more expensive because of their construction and installation. The time and extra work required to adequately fasten the unit to the wall can also increase the cost.
  • Floor-standing vanity Units: These are relatively cheaper, especially regarding installation. They do not need much support, especially if many of them are to be installed, so installation is easier and faster, which translates to less expenses.

Installation Complexity

Another factor that must be considered is the complexity and, therefore, the installation cost.

  • Wall-Mounted Vanity Units: A wall-mounted unit, for instance, may be somewhat complicated to install. It necessitates proper backing to the walls besides demanding reinforcement where the vanity is heavy, or the walls are not very strong. You’ll usually have to use a professional person, which increases the price.
  • Floor-Standing Vanity Units: These are easier to install than the previous models because they don’t require wall brackets or reinforcement. They can often be located and anchored without much of a strain and are, therefore, a better DIY choice.

Which One Should You Choose?

Which type of vanity should you choose? It depends on the general design of your bathroom, your preferences, and, of course, your budget and desire to deal with the complexity of installation works. 

  • Particularly if you have a small bathroom and prefer fashionable minimalist, then you should go for a wall-mounted vanity unit. A wall-mounted vanity will be ideal if you have limited space and desire a sleek, minimalist bathroom
  • If you wish to have more shelves or a traditional type of washing table, as well as if the ease of installation is highly valued, a floor-mounted model should suit you. A floor-standing vanity could be your best bet if you need more storage or prefer a classic look. 

If you are lucky enough to strike a balance between these features, you can choose the right type of vanity unit that will add to the functionality or even enhance the aesthetic value of your bathroom.

What Is a Wall-Mounted Vanity Unit?

A floating vanity or wall-mounted vanity is an item of bathroom furniture installed directly on the wall and the bottom part of the cabinet is exposed. This vanity unit provides a sleek and minimalist appearance that continues to be fashionable in many modern bathroom vanity washrooms. They provide simple storage solutions and a sleek appearance suitable according to your needs. 

A wall-mounted basin and vanity is a washstand with a basin and one or more suspended bathroom cabinets or drawers fixed to the wall. These fixtures are usually adjusted to a user’s preferred height. Floating vanities are chosen in many designs, materials and dimensions, from compact ones for cloaks or small bathrooms to large ones for master baths. They can be installed in almost every area of the house, and their simple design suits any homeowner who wishes to have an open-style bathroom. 

Wall-Mounted Vanity Unit

Typical Features of Wall-Mounted Vanities

Floating Design

The most distinctive aspect of wall-mounted vanity units is that they do not look attached to the walls. In the element of spatial use, as the vanity is fixed on the wall, it does not occupy the ground space, and the overall feeling of the bathroom space is more radically open. It is also easier to clean this model as they do not require the room to be made around legs and corners and look more neat.

Modern Aesthetic

Most of the wall-mounted vanities can be referred to as modern and contemporary finishes given the washrooms they are placed in. Because they are simple, unadorned, and have low heights, these lights look best in contemporary bathrooms with monochromatic colour schemes, shiny finishing, and up-to-date sanitaryware fixtures. It is used primarily by those who want high-quality products, like a spa beside the bathroom, which is very costly.

Customization of Height

The wall-mounted vanity is also easily adjustable for height, one of the most considerable benefits of such a variant. While standard vanities have fixed heights, floating vanities can be adjusted to any level depending on the user’s height. The fact that these are adjustable and can be easily extended to fit children’s height makes this so important in households with children.

Variety of Materials

Wall-mounted vanities come with numerous finishes so homeowners can get acquainted with a specific bathroom style. Wood, MDF, and particleboard are familiar resources which can be coated with water-resistant veneers or laminates. Some models are equipped with a countertop of ceramic, stone or resin, which increases both the protection and the beauty of the models.

Thus, the idea of a wall-mounted unit makes much sense for those who love decorating their bathroom with a contemporary furniture style and looking out for convenience. There is a floating design and a height-adjustable unit, and it can save space, making it perfect for small and large bathrooms. If you are thinking of customizing or redesigning your bathroom, it’s always wise to consider a wall-mounted vanity.

What are the Advantages of Wall-Mounted Vanity Units?

Wall-mounted vanity units have many advantages, which have made them standard in many houses’ bathroom designs. 

Advantages of Wall-Mounted Vanity Units

Here is a breakdown of the benefits of wall-mounted vanity units: 

Space-Saving

The major benefit of wall-mounted vanity units is that they are space savers and, therefore, recommended where space is limited, such as in the bath compartment. These vanities have no exposed bottom and no floor-standing base since the unit goes on top of the wall, giving the effect of an open design. 

The additional area of the visible floor contributes to the impression of a greater room’s space, ideal in small bathrooms, powder rooms, or cloakrooms where each foot counts. It eliminates the bathroom’s clutter and makes the bathroom look larger than it is.

Easy Cleaning

Another practical benefit is the absence of legs or base of the furniture part of the vanity touching the floor. Conventional vanities come with tricky corners that might be hard to clean if it’s around the legs or the base area. It may be particularly true if installed on a wall because the area below such a design is open and thus very easy to clean. 

Floor cleaning underneath a wall-mounted wash basin is accessible whether you are sweeping or mopping the floor. It may be especially handy in busy washroom areas where the integrity of the washroom is of most importance since many users will be coming into contact with the washroom area.

Minimalist and Functional

As these vanity units are mounted on the wall and without any complexity in their framework, these types are true to minimalist design. Both are functionally shaped to provide storage solutions without occupying much floor space. That makes them suitable in a bathroom, where minimalism and functionality are the key concepts.

Customisation

Another advantage of the wall-mounted vanity unit is the flexibility in terms of the height of the installation. Mounted vanities differ from those installed at a fixed height for a specific user’s needs. This is a great plus point for people with families of different height limits or people who have a preference for the kind of car Ikea has designed.

Consequently, wall-mounted vanity units have some characteristics that include being space-saving, easy to clean, and more contemporary than other vanity units. In addition, they are available in different sizes and styles to fit any bathroom. These benefits make them a good application for any bathroom width and length, design idea, and utilization needs.

Disadvantages of Wall-Mounted Vanity Units

Compared to recessed bathroom vanity designs that have seemingly floating storage areas, wall-mounted vanity units today bring smooth and clean bathroom styles together with the advantage of appearing to enlarge a small bathroom. At the same time, homeowners must understand a few cons before installing these furniture pieces. 

disadvantages of wall-mounted vanity unit

The following disadvantages are the main demerits people should expect whenever they want to install wall-mounted vanity units, as explained below: 

Installation Complexity

There are many disadvantages associated with this type of furniture, notably the fact that installation is relatively tricky. Thus while the floor-standing ones can be just placed on the floor and fixed to the wall with a few screws, the wall-mounted ones come with more complicated construction requirements. The unit must be firmly screwed into the wall, which can require chiselling the wall to fix new battens such as studs or brackets. 

In addition, if the wall in question does not offer the proper support, retrofitting it becomes crucial as the vanity has to support not only the weight of the unit but anything stored in the same. Mainly needs professional services, which costs more than the regular average price of the vanity. In addition, making sure that the vanity is level on the wall and appropriately placed can also prolong the installation process.

Storage Limitations

Another disadvantage is that vanities mounted on the wall usually provide smaller storage space than wall-standing vanities. Though these accessories can help free floor space and make more of an open space look in a bathroom, they are usually offered with less storage capacity because of their design. 

Floor-standing vanities are generally more versatile; they are built from the floor up to the counter, where additional drawers or cupboards can be placed. Some households need more space to store towels, toiletries, and cleaning products; a wall-mounted vanity may not be enough. For that reason, the homeowners may be forced to install wardrobes or shelves on the wall to compensate for the absence of the storage area.

Weight Concerns

Another parameter that may disadvantage wall-mounted vanity units is weight. These units are usually bulkier than regular floor-standing vanities, and if they are made of solid wood or stone on the countertop, they will be even heavier. Due to their design and layout, fixing wall-mounted vanities does not entail merely seating them directly on the floor; the full weight of the particular unit has to be endured by the wall.

Maintenance Challenges

As a rule, built-in vanities have a space-saving vanity unit between the bottom of the case and the floor. However, this gives the room a sleek appearance and makes cleaning the floor below the vanity easier, the idea cons. Hair and dust may fall to the open area below the unit, making it appear more untidy and need frequent wipe-downs. Also, if there is a water leakage problem at any time, accessing pipes/fittings installed in the wall can be complicated and costly compared to floor-standing vanities.

Limited Design Flexibility

However, it is essential to note that fixed vanities mounted on the walls are especially preferred for their sleek appearance, but they greatly restrict your creativity. Indeed, some owners appreciate the traditional vanity unit and more imposing style of freestanding bathroom vanity versions, who also choose from a greater variety of models offered. As a rule, wall-mounted vanities are associated with more strict and classical lines, and those who prefer more ornamented styles might not have many variants.

However, there are the following drawbacks of wall-mounted vanity: very little chance of creating storage, problems with the load bearing of the construction, and some concerns with the monthly management. These factors need to be given full consideration each time such arises because, as you will recall, they are still exercising their minds to determine whether wall-mounted vanities would suit the homeowner’s bath or not.

What Is a Floor-Standing Vanity Unit?

Floor-standing vanities are free-standing bathroom furniture that may contain a basin or sink on top and may also contain doors or drawers below. Wall-hung vanity units are slightly different because they are installed into walls while floor-standing units are primarily built with legs or a base touching the floor. 

This design provides fairly adequate support, and installation is relatively convenient as well because they do not need to be screwed into the wall. These vanities are chosen for their timeless and much-appreciated traditional look and the primary setting of a bathroom scene.

Floor Standing Vanity Unit

Typical Features of Floor-Standing Vanity Units

Legs or Full Base

Floor-standing vanity units are also available in two principal construct types:

  • Legged vanities: These have legs that lift the unit off the ground, thus providing an area of access from below. It can help the bath give more of an airy feel and enables one to carry out cleaning under the unit.
  • Full-base vanities: These units have a pedestal that is screwed to the base and then sits flat on the ground, providing a sturdier appearance to the sides and front. This design can also maximize storage because there is no space between the unit and the ground.

Traditional and Classic Look

Floor-standing vanities are particular to the classically decorated bathroom or a more conservative layout of this room. These chairs and stools have a more solid look and are even more massive than the other models, creating a striking focus in the bathroom. Modern floor-standing vanities are also produced, which float clean lines and various glossy veneers and thus are apt for modern houses too.

Stands on the Floor 

For clarity, it is essential to distinguish between floor-stand vanity units that are Freestanding bathroom vanity by design. The wall does not support them; hence, there are no hurdles to the wall’s strength in making and installing them. It also pegs them as flexible devices since they can be installed in virtually any section of the bathroom without affecting the room’s structural frameworks in a big way.

What are the Advantages of Floor-Standing Vanity Units?

Bathrooms based on floor-standing vanity units are the popular choice in modern houses and apartments because of their functionality and variability of shapes and colours. There are some benefits that homeowners can get from steel carports, making them quite suitable for those who are in search of permanent and attractive storage structures. 

key benefits of floor-standing vanity units

Below are the key benefits of floor-standing vanity units explained in more detail:

Ample Storage

However, the most significant benefit of floor-standing vanity units is the amount of storage space offered. These units go from the floor to the countertop level, providing more space for the Suspended bathroom cabinet, drawers, and shelves. This makes them appropriate for storing items like towels, bathroom essentials, cleaning products, and others. 

While most vanities are wall-mounted and float, floor-standing vanities take advantage of the total height, giving more profound and more extensive storage options. Those who cannot accommodate any furniture in their bathroom can use a floor-standing vanity for storage and to enhance the appearance of a cluttered bathroom.

Easier Installation

Fixed vanities mounted on floors are easier to install than the wall-hung type. Because the units sit directly on the floor, there is no requirement to anchor the unit to the wall of the building or strengthen the wall to bear the load required by the unit. This makes installation much faster and easier, sometimes even requiring no additional tools or little work. 

It must only be installed and mounted on the floor or lightly supported by the wall if extra support is required. Some people prefer the challenges of do-it-yourself or may not wish to spend the money or time to hire a professional. A floor-standing vanity is ideal for such people.

Timeless Design 

Floor-standing vanities have relatively uncomplicated designs, which give them a universal appeal that can suit contemporary, classic, and all others between the two styles. They are very suitable for their size and materiality, and they can be either over-decorated in a more established tradition or exceedingly clean and modern in their finish. 

Currently, these vanities are available in many different materials, finishes, and colours to enable homeowners to get the desired bathroom vanity design. Floor-standing vanities are suitable for these homeowners because this furniture piece is timeless and is unlikely to be phased out of style anytime soon. Besides, it is relatively easy to alter the look of a floor-standing vanity by changing the countertop or the type of handles used, say after several years.

Durability 

As built and designed, floor-standing vanity units generally have great sturdiness and are rigid in structure. They are less likely to get knocked about or damaged because they rest firmly on the floor. It is especially so in such households, where the vanities and the boards regularly come into contact with water and humidity. 

Many floor-standing vanities are also made up of very sturdy materials like solid wood, engineered wood, and MDF to increase their durability. This feature enables their durability for several years due to daily use with little wear-out vulnerability. 

What are the Disadvantages of Floor-Standing Vanity Units?

disadvantages of floor-standing vanity units

Let’s explore the disadvantages of floor standing vanity unit in detail:

Takes Up Space

However, the most visible negative aspect of floor-standing varieties is their relatively large number of floor square metres. It becomes especially punishing in small or narrow baths where finding space on the floor to construct a shower is paramount. Both base units and tall units can decrease the feeling of space in the bedroom, especially if they are large units and occupy a significant amount of the room’s square footage. 

On the other hand, Wall-hung cabinet vanities are designed to make a bathroom look larger as anything below them takes up less visual space, which can be advantageous in many instances in a small bathroom.

Harder to Clean

One of the problems with this base is that it rests directly on the floor, which means that dust, hair, and other debris may be trapped within the unit, particularly at the edges or on parts of the unit that can be easily hidden, such as behind the unit or under the skirting board. Some designs, for example, have tiny spaces between the vanity’s base and the ground, and cleaning such areas can be pretty challenging. 

Often, they may take longer to keep clean, especially if they are mostly covered with mould soon, mainly when used in areas like the bathroom that are more humid.

Thus, floor-standing vanity units have sufficient accommodation and a traditional look, although they are suitable for large bathrooms where accommodation facilities are not an issue. Still, the auxiliary constructions that these designs can incorporate can be challenging in cleaning, space usage, and modularity for small or more contemporary offices.

What are the Key Differences between Wall-Mounted and Floor-Standing Vanity Units?

AspectWall-Mounted Vanity UnitsFloor-Standing Vanity Units
InstallationRequires secure wall mounting, often professional helpSits on the floor, easier DIY installation.
Space EfficiencyCreates the illusion of more space, ideal for small areas.Occupies floor space, suitable for larger bathrooms.
Storage CapacityLimited storage due to compact design.Offers larger cabinets and more storage space.
Design & AestheticsSleek, modern, and minimalist look.Traditional, grounded, and classic design.
Customisation OptionsCan be mounted at any height for flexibility.Fixed height, more variety in styles and finishes.
Cleaning & MaintenanceEasy to clean underneath, with no base obstruction.Harder to clean around the base, and dust may accumulate.

Finally, deciding whether to buy wall-hung or floor-standing vanity units depends on the bathroom requirements. The mounted ones are designed for style, space and functionality, making them a perfect modern bathroom vanity or compact bathroom addition. Provided the fixtures are tall enough, floor-standing units are considerably easier to fit, offer more storage, and may be more effective in traditional or larger bath/shower rooms. 

Both types have their profit and loss, so you should consider your priorities. Is it better to have more storage space-saving vanity units or use the rooms effectively, or is it essential to achieve the intended design?

Which Vanity Unit Is Better for You? Wall-Mounted or Floor-Standing?

Wall-mounted and floor-standing vanity units are two types of units to be decided on based on size and space, style and colour, and budget. The use of a ceramic or a porcelain bathtub must also consider the ability of each to reflect the other kinds of advantages as well as its drawbacks to determine the best kind suited for lying in a bathroom.

Bathroom Size

However, the size of your bathroom is an essential factor that will help you decide which particular type of vanity unit to use. However, for the small bathroom, cloakroom, or any other small space, a wall-mounted vanity unit would be the best suggestion. These units, intended to be compact about the wall space, do not cover the floor space beneath them. 

On the other hand, having a floor-standing vanity unit may be more appropriate if you have a large bathroom. Floor-standing types of washstands have more drawers to the article and, therefore, are more useful for families requiring more storage space or having users go to the bathroom daily. In the case of a large bathroom, the area they cover is relatively unimportant. 

Personal Style

Your choice should also depend on your style, the style of your house and the notion of what a door, an entry or a vestibule should look like. Wall-mounted units are more or less suited for a modern, contemporary design. They come in a fashionable minimalist design, making them suitable for modern houses and new bathroom remodelling projects. 

On the other hand, floor-standing vanity units are ideal for homeowners who want a traditional or classic design. These units tend to be more substantial and have a more realistic look, with convenient designs in the bathroom. Floor-standing vanities can also add some character and cosiness to the room, making it suitable for the classic type of house and owners who prefer traditional looks.

Budget Considerations

Mounting location is another factor that separates wall-mounted vanity units from floor-standing ones in terms of cost. They have to be firmly fixed in the wall and, at times, might need reinforcement or support, so the price of the uni and the installation charges are a little steep. Also, washing and cosmetic cases that can be fixed on the wall are usually produced using better materials to guarantee durability, which also incurs more expenses. 

Floored standing vanity units are generally cheaper and more straightforward to install. These systems do not necessarily need to be mounted or prepared in a labour-intensive fashion, meaning installation work may be done with little outside assistance, lowering labour costs. A floor-standing vanity will be more economical if you are short on cash and do not wish to undertake complicated installation procedures.

When you have a small bathroom and want to make it modern, a wall-mounted vanity is the best option since they don’t take up much space. 

  • Large Bathrooms: This bathroom furniture is best for a traditional bathroom and provides more store space and solidity. These vanities include more cabinets and a weightier, more imposing aesthetic. 
  • Small Bathrooms: A wall-mounted vanity is perfect for conserving space and establishing a modern look. However, some crucial factors need to be considered while selecting an adequate vanity unit for the bathroom. These are the size and layout of the room, the design preference, and the cash amount you are willing to spend on this project
  • Budget : Concerning the cost factor, the floor-standing ones are cheaper and more economical than the wall-mounted ones, resulting from the installation issue and to be more complex. 

Pricing Comparison: Wall-Mounted vs Floor-Standing Vanity Units

When deciding whether a bathroom vanity unit should be installed on the wall or placed on the floor, the cost of the two is highly important. Each type has its price coefficients, which include the price of the unit itself, the installation costs, and any possible future maintenance costs. Now, it is time to recap the costs that were considered in the above analysis to make a proper decision.

Cost of Installation

Wall-Mounted Vanity Units

Fitted bathroom furniture that can be fixed on bathroom walls is slim and contemporarily designed. Most of these designs entail higher installation costs than others. Often, the installer has to retrofit the wall for strength, particularly when it has drywall or is too old to support the weight of the unit and sink. This process can include an extra workforce, more materials and additional time, resulting in higher installation costs. 

The installation of a wall-mounted vanity unit can cost between £150 to £400 depending on the installation’s difficulty, the vanity’s size, and the state of the walls in the bathroom. 

Floor-Standing Vanity Units

Conversely, floor-standing vanity units are less expensive for installation charges than wall-mounted units. These vanities are floor models, and thus, they have no specific requirements that have to be accomplished regarding floor support and structures. It is less complex and takes less time; sometimes, it just involves connecting the pipes and fastening them to ensure they don’t topple over. 

Floor-standing vanities are also cheaper to install, averaging between £75 and £200 per installation, depending on other installation conditions. Similarly, it may be easier to set up this type of storage as a DIY project, eliminating the need to spend money on an expert’s service.

Unit Prices 

Wall-Mounted Vanity Units

These vanities can be more expensive than floor-standing ones, primarily due to their contemporary look and the materials on which they are mounted. They usually have extra functions such as closing with near-silence, not visibly joined storage space, or lighting using an LED strip, which can elevate the price tag. 

Even a standard-size wall-mounted vanity unit that you can find pretty easily can cost at least £200 and can go up to £800 or even more with premium and custom units. Fixed cupboards in the walls can be more expensive, especially if they are made to fit the area or the preferred design, going for £1,500 or more depending on the material and the finishing. 

Floor-Standing Vanity Units

Cabinet and floor-standing vanity units are of traditional contemporary design, and the cost is comparatively lower. Minimally equipped models begin at £100, while well-equipped models of the Economy line range between the cheapest price of £300 and the most expensive of £500

Free-standing vanities, especially the higher-end or larger floor-standing vanity cabinets with double basins or elaborate storage space, are still relatively cheap and can rarely exceed £700 to £1000. These vanities are relatively easy to install and very sturdy and, thus, do not have to be expensive while offering much functionality and a great look.

Which is More Cost-Effective?

Altogether, the choice of a wall-mounted and a floor-standing vanity unit is purely a matter of financial capacity and choice of appearance. If you crave a sophisticated look, tend to choose sleek, clean lines and are ready to pay extra for both the unit and the job, then a wall-hung vanity may suit you best. 

Nevertheless, if you’re on a rather limited budget and you aren’t enthusiastic about those styles focusing on aesthetics but rather functionality, a floor-standing vanity is likely to offer you greater value per dollar but don’t necessarily skip on storage Space-saving vanity unit possibilities.

Each of these two types has its advantages but concerning the expenditures, the floor-standing kind is slightly cheaper than the other one, regarding the unit price and cost of installation.

Common Issues and Solutions

Floating Vanity Problems Weight Concerns

Weight Concerns

Floating vanities are a popular fixture because they bear much weight on the wall. Since these units are fixed directly to the wall without floor support, they must be anchored on the wall studs or other supports. Not fixing the vanity will cause it to move further from the wall as time goes on if the unit is loaded with a sink or countertop, among other fixtures. 

Solution

To avoid this, make sure that the wall is strong enough to bear the weight or the load from the vanity and accessories, such as the sinks and taps, among others. Seek the advice of a professional in case of drywall or an old house to reinforce the wall’s integrity. If desired, add blocking or bracing between studs, but ensure the wall needs reinforcement. Furthermore, do not install such items as heavy stone tops on the vanity since that will exert excess pressure on the vanity drawers.

Plumbing Visibility

The other issue with floating vanities is that the plumbing becomes exposed. Since these units are mounted off the floor, the pipes beneath the sink can become more exposed, interrupting the clean lines many homeowners aim for. It can also make the space look unpolished or incomplete. 

Solution

To counter this, use decorative plumbing fixtures compatible with the vanity’s design. Chrome, matte black, or brass will turn the look of exposed plumbing into a design feature.

On the other hand, it is possible to incorporate a vanity with built-in panels meant to cover pipes, meaning the minimalist appearance is retained. Self-made cupboards may also be installed to cover the pipes entirely if desired. 

Potential Structural Damage

If a floating vanity is installed improperly, you may soon find the mounted wall damaged. In time, the weight exerted by vanities and sinks put on the wall can cause the wall to crack and buckle, especially if it wasn’t installed with steel when being done. 

Solution

There are installation procedures that should be followed to avoid structural work being destroyed. Strengthen this wall and ensure the vanity is firmly fixed to the right level. Check around the vanities occasionally for signs of wall damage, like cracks and sags. Any problems that may appear should be solved before getting worse.

Floor-Standing Vanity

Space Concerns

These are larger versions of vanities and come with the disadvantage of consuming more floor space, something that could be a significant concern if the bathroom is not very spacious. These can cause the room to become stifling and herald restricted movement. A slimline floor-standing unit can create limited space for other storage or aesthetics, such as putting plants or towel stands within the area. 

Solution

Choose a sleek, slim version of a floor-standing vanity that allows for the most storage space, although it is a small size. Cabinet types with built-in drawers and shelves can save much space without quelling utility and efficiency. However, lighter colours for the vanity and other features in the space and accessories are also a solution that will eliminate the feeling that the room is cramped. 

Cleaning Difficulty

By and large, a floor-standing vanity is a bit difficult to clean, especially on the lower part of the furniture, where dust, hair, and debris may gather. The vanity’s base may also make it challenging to mop or clean beneath and around the vanity’s base. 

Solution

To make cleaning easier, consider buying a vanity set that either sits on legs or is a bit raised from the floor, making cleaning below it easier. On the other hand, choose one with a sealed, smooth bottom so you cannot get anything trapped below it. We could use a small vacuum cleaner or an extending duster to cover small areas for once in a while cleaning.

Damage from Water Exposure

The floor-standing ones are much more vulnerable to water influence, mainly if the furniture has been set near a shower or bathtub. The base of the vanity may absorb water, resulting in the following effects: warping, mould formation, or even mildewing. It may be especially true of wooden vanities or other materials that tend to be damaged when in contact with water. 

Solution

Select water-resistant materials, such as PVC, laminate, or any timber that has undergone a treatment process, since water resistance is a prerequisite in selecting the material. However, there is a need to maintain proper bathroom ventilation to minimize humidity formation and dampness. Ensure that the area under the sink and the pipes are free from leaks, so apply waterproof seepage protectors on the edges and joints of the vanity.

Final Thoughts: Which Vanity Unit Should You Choose?

Installing a wall-hung or floor-standing vanity unit remains a choice based on the available space, style, cost, and the outlook you want to achieve, as well as whether it can be done quickly or with difficulty. It is thus essential to view the impact and disadvantages of each option depending on their suitability for the entrepreneur’s needs. 

Wall-Mounted Vanity Units

Wall-mounted vanities are ideal if you want a sleek, fashionably modern design and wish to make the most of the floor space. They give a silky, buoyant appearance, making even tiny bath areas seem more airy. However, do not forget the increased installation costs and the prerequisite for enhancing the wall structure. Floor-mount designs are usually cheaper and may be easier to conceal pipes, but the sleek looks of wall-mounted models reflect this price difference.

Disadvantages of Wall-Mounted Vanity Units

  • The prospective users could face higher installation costs because of the necessity of the contingent structures.
  • Can only hold limited weight if supported by the wall at all.
  • Some of the pipes may be seen, thereby making the house’s general appearance or any other building ugly.
  • If not installed properly, there could be structural damage, including illation costs due to necessary structural work.

Floor-Standing Vanity Units

Floor-standing vanities are slightly different and best suited to those who like a more traditional or classic unit style. These units have a better coefficient of insulation. Also, they are less complicated to install and are frequently cheaper than others. These provide a lot of storage, which would be helpful for prominent families. 

However, they may occupy more floor space and thus be very sensitive to smaller bathroom areas where utensils will be stored. Cleaning beneath the unit is complex, and they get easy targets of water damage if installed near wet areas. 

Which One Is Better for You? 

  • Wall-hung vanities are standard in small bathrooms or, if you consider having a modern bathroom, easy to clean and renovate. 
  • A freestanding vanity may be the right option for a given home if the bathroom is big or needs more space. They can also be installed with their backs to a wall. However, that may require changes to some of the pipework, which may be necessary if the vanity unit does not fit neatly into your layout. 

Ultimately, it depends on how much flair one wants to inject into the design and how much one can afford to spend. When it comes to choosing the perfect material for your bathroom, it depends upon your available space, detail for storage, and, of course, your unique taste.

How do I choose a vanity unit?

Choosing a vanity bathroom’s design depends on several factors, like the size of the bathroom, the style of the chosen unit, and the storage in the vanity unit. Determine the size of the area to select the correct dimensions, and choose between installation and the proper design for the decoration of the interior of a bathroom. 

Should a freestanding vanity be attached to the wall?

Not always but if there is a way, it is necessary to do it because the freestanding vanity should be firmly fixed to the wall so that it does not tip over during usage.

Why are bathroom vanities off the floor?

Occasionally, bathroom vanities are positioned off the floor as a front for a more spacious area, cleanliness, and protection of wood from moisture, which accelerates rotting. Wall-hung vanities also enhance the minimalist feel of the bathrooms and help create a sophisticated appearance.

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