Let’s face it. The sink, shower/tub and toilet are what make a bathroom, a bathroom.
Of course a powder or half bath lacks a shower or tub, but the room would cease being a bathroom without the inclusion of a sink and toilet. It isn’t an option. However, there are a number of fixture options beyond what is absolutely functional.
Sinks
Oval is the most common shape for bathroom sinks, though they are available in a variety of sizes and also come in rectangular, square and oblong. Homeowners who are limited by bathroom space may want to install a pedestal sink. Pedestals are attractive and take up minimal space.
Sinks are being manufactured in materials beyond standard porcelain. Glass is the newest trend, and can be under-mounted. Additionally, cast iron provides more finishes and color options.
Shower
Today’s shower is luxury personified; or at least it can be. There are many options available. Wall mounted units are the most basic, and are also fully functional. Additional shower fixture options include: hand-held units, full body sprays, and rain shower-heads. These are rather self-explanatory, however, the body spray fixture might do with some explanation.
Body spray fixtures are sometimes drilled into the shower wall, which some homeowners might find daunting. If the idea of drilling holes into shower tiles leaves you a bit faint, then consider drill less units; slide bars attached to the shower walls with suction cups. The body sprays are attached to the bars.
Faucets for sinks and tubs that are manufactured to save water and to prevent leaks are a great choice. The durable faucets, with ceramic disks inside the fixture, eat away at the buildup that occurs from hard water deposits. Over time the buildup could cause leaks in the plumbing.
Placement of faucet fixtures varies depending on the homeowner’s style preference. Wall faucets are an option, or they can be attached to the deck of the sink or tub.
Toilets that are considered to be more comfortable are taller- 16-18 inches. That is 2-3 inches higher than what is standard. Standard toilets are 14-15 inches tall, and are not as easily accessible for family members who have physical challenges that require them to use a walker or wheel chair.
Toilet choices have increased over the years. No longer is standard white, standard. The range of color choices is vast. Toilets are manufactured in one-piece, two piece, or wall hung. Flushing technology is varied with the different types of commodes on the market. Flushing is also an issue, and different toilets flush at different gallons per flush. Dual flush toilets save water, using only the amount of water needed to flush.