Vessel Sinks vs. Solid-Surface Vanity Sinks

Vessel Sinks

A vessel sink by definition is a bowl that sits on top of the counter. It can be made of any material, including metal, stone, ceramic or glass, and can come in multiple shapes and sizes. Vessel sinks are primarily decorative, since the outer and inner areas of the sink are visible.

Solid-surface materials refer to a group of acrylic polymers such as Corian. Acrylic resins and pigments are mixed, melted and poured into a mold. Seams can be melted together so they don't show, allowing for an integral sink and countertop. The sink is attached to the counter and the seam melted together so the sink and counter become one piece. The sink bowl goes below the counter line, allowing for an easy-to-maintain surface.

Vessel sinks can complement many bathroom designs. They can be carved from large blocks of stone for a rough, rustic look or poured out of glass for a sleek and contemporary feel. China sinks can be painted in a variety of styles, or left plain white for a simple appearance.

The vessel sink comes in many shapes, sizes, materials and colors. Pricing varies accordingly and ranged from $50 to $5,000 as of May 2010.

Solid-surface tops and sinks can come in various colors and styles. The sink and counter can be made of two colors, frequently with a plain white or biscuit for the sink with a more decorative color for the vanity top. Shapes can include ovals, squares and scallops and sizes are fairly standard.

Most solid-surface tops have a matte finish, with colors ranging from white to contemporary shades of orange and lime-green.

Vessel sinks require some extra thought regarding their use, placement and the faucet and drain used with them. Many plumbing codes require the use of a grid drain with the use of a vessel sink, so the water flows freely at all times. While plug drains are available, they may not be universally accepted, so the sink cannot be filled.

Faucets must be tall enough to clear the rim of the sink, or wall-mounted above the sink to allow access. The flow of the water should also be regulated to help prevent splashing as the water hits the curve of the sink, particularly in shallow vessels.

An integral bowl and top made of solid-surface material is easy to use and care for. The top can be drilled for any configuration of faucet, while the lack of rim around the sink means it is easy to push debris straight into the sink from the vanity top. The sinks themselves are typically of standard depth, and do not require any special drains or faucet configurations.