How to Fit Bathroom Vanity Units: Installation Tips

Fitting bathroom vanity units during installation is best done with careful planning and measuring. Always measure twice, choose a spot that is centered around any plumbing, and level the vanity before attaching it to a wall or connecting any plumbing to the faucets and drains. 

Installing new bathroom cabinets can change the entire aesthetic of the room. Therefore, it is crucial to consider factors such as available space, color schemes, and personal needs before purchasing a new vanity. 

Vanity Choices

Just because a vanity can fit doesn’t mean it should. Map out exactly how much space the new vanity will occupy. While it’s important to ponder what is the best color for bathroom cabinets, first ensure it will be a good fit. A vanity that looks great but is too large may create issues for the entire room. 

Doors that swing into the room can collide with the new vanity, or vanity doors can bump into walls and other fixtures. Using tape marks on the floor based on the measurements of the potential vanity is a great way to plan ahead.

Once the measurements match up and space is left for opening doors and other furniture, select the vanity that meets your preferences. Consider if you will use drawers or cabinets more and if multiple people will use the bathroom simultaneously. It’s also a good idea to check out some tips for organizing vanity cabinets.

Pre-Installation Tips

Each vanity has a different footprint. Depending on how the home was built, tile or flooring may or may not be under the previous vanity. Additionally, depending on when the vanity was installed, the flooring may end at the current vanity edge with only a subfloor beneath. 

Assess whether replacing or modifying the floor is necessary before installing the new vanity. Once the floor has been repaired or altered as necessary, measure where the new vanity will go. Center your floor marks around the existing plumbing outlet, and look at baseboards that may need to be removed or modified if the new vanity is wider than the previous one. 

If off-center installation from the plumbing is necessary, consult with a plumber before installing. For entire bathroom remodels, the plumbing may be moved, but at significant expense.

The Install

Even in modern homes, floors may not be level. Don’t count on your vanity being level simply because it sits flat on the floor. Place a level on top of the vanity in both front-to-back and side-to-side orientations. If there are any discrepancies, use small wood shims under the corners until the vanity is completely level. 

Pay special attention to the wall, as it may be uneven or slightly sloped. It may be necessary to add shims behind the cabinet to ensure it sits flush. Be especially mindful of where screws or brackets will attach the vanity to a wall. There should be no gap between the back of the vanity and the wall. Once ready, attach the vanity to the wall. 

Attaching the plumbing is next. If the plumbing is too complex, consult an expert. Be sure that all pipes are properly sealed, and use silicon or caulk where the backsplash, vanity, and wall come together–this will help prevent leaks and water damage. 

Let Us Help You Find Your Dream Vanity

27estore has a wide selection of cabinets and vanities that can match any style. From high-quality laminate to real wood veneer, we have a design for every aesthetic. 

Our cabinets also come in a variety of sizes, from narrow and deep to shallow and wide. With so many choices, you’re sure to find something that suits your needs. Check out our full selection today!