12 Questions About Farmhouse Bathroom Sinks

There are several styles of vanities out there today that are getting noticed, and usually for good reason. Farmhouse bathroom vanities are one of the growing trends, but some people have questions about them. In this guide, we’ll cover 12 of the most common questions people ask about these unique vanities so that you can decide whether the farmhouse style is right for you.

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Photo by Magleby Construction

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Are Farmhouse Sinks Going Out of Style?

As the name suggests, farmhouse sinks have been around for almost as long as farmhouses—more than 100 years. These classic vessels will continue to be a timeless choice in kitchens. Not only are they functional, but they look great and completely change the appearance of a space.

What Is the Difference Between a Farmhouse Sink and an Apron Sink?

These sinks are similar in features and sometimes, people may even refer to farmhouse sinks as apron sinks, but they are not the same. An apron sink is more exposed and versatile, but it also has limited options for materials. Farmhouse sinks are typically simpler to install because apron sinks have more features, including a drying board or counter cover.

Apron sinks will typically have wall-mounted faucets while farmhouse sinks will have traditional faucets in the counter, in most cases.

Related: 12 Questions And Answers About Vessel Sinks

60 Inch Large Driftwood Single Sink Bathroom Vanity

60 Inch Large Driftwood Single Sink Bathroom Vanity

Do Farmhouse Sinks Need a Special Drain?

Farmhouse sinks do not require a special drain, but there are considerations for installing these deep sinks above drains. For example, you may have to forego the garbage disposal with a deep farmhouse sink because the disposal won’t fit underneath. Otherwise, they can be connected to the same drains and plumbing that you have in place for your existing bathroom or kitchen sink.

Related: 10 Questions About Bathroom Sink Faucets

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Do Farmhouse Sinks Increase Home Value?

Like any design feature, there is the chance that a farmhouse sink could increase your home value. However, it’s not a standalone thing—you can’t just install a farmhouse sink and hope to sell your home for more money. As part of a larger bathroom or kitchen renovation, a farmhouse sink can enhance the home’s value and add to the price that you can sell the home for because of the new updates.

On their own, just having a farmhouse sink isn’t enough to impact home values.

30 Inch Single Sink Bathroom Vanity with Black Granite

30 Inch Single Sink Bathroom Vanity with Black Granite

The most popular farmhouse sink style is the large, single-basin sink that is cut into the counter and provides an apron where the beginning of the cabinets would normally be. People like the look of this larger sink and the way it kind of sticks out of the counter, and the fact that it comes in every finish and style imaginable. Stainless steel sinks with pull-down faucets and other features are popular, as well.

Do You Need a Special Base Cabinet for a Farmhouse Sink?

There are definitely considerations regarding your base cabinets when you install a farmhouse sink. These sinks are larger and heavier than other models. They’re also much deeper, which means they will need more space in the base cabinet and that can cut down on your storage.

You may be able to install a farmhouse sink on standard base cabinets or an existing cabinet, but you’ll need to make sure that it’s going to be able to support the weight of the sink over time and not become damaged.

Related: Advice From The Experts: How To Choose A Bathroom Vanity

84 Inch Double Sink Bathroom Vanity in Ash Gray with Barn Style Doors

84 Inch Double Sink Bathroom Vanity in Ash Gray with Barn Style Doors

What Kind of Countertop Do You Need for a Farmhouse Sink?

Farmhouse sinks can be installed with just about any counter material that you want. Much like any other sink, the installation is about creating the look that you want for your space. If you choose a simple laminate counter, that’s fine. You can also upgrade to stylish granite counters for a more durable look, or try stone for something different. Ultimately, the choice is yours to make.  

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Do You Install a Farmhouse Sink Before Countertops?

This depends on the style of the sink. Some farmhouse sinks are inset and will need to be installed before the counters. Others may be able to be installed after countertops, provided that the space is cut out for the sink installation. If you have a farmhouse sink that rests on the counters, they may need to be installed first. It’s best to leave this to your contractor to make sure it’s done in the correct order.

24 Inch Transitional Single Sink Vanity in Dark Gray

24 Inch Transitional Single Sink Vanity in Dark Gray

What Is the Most Durable Material for a Farmhouse Sink?

Stainless steel is the most popular and durable option, and it is available in several thicknesses so that it can deliver the level of durability that people need. While farmhouse sinks are also available in copper, solid surface materials, stone, and more, those often have limitations with issues like staining, heat damage, a lack of durability, and so forth. Cast iron is starting to make a comeback for durability, too, but it’s not always easy to find.

Do Farmhouse Sinks Splash More?

There are instances where some farmhouse sinks may create more splashing because they are deeper. However, this also depends on the faucet that you choose, the depth of your sink, and other factors.

Related: Remodeling A Bathroom On A Budget: Where Should You Focus Your Money?

48 Inch Single Sink Bathroom Vanity in White with Barn Style Doors

48 Inch Single Sink Bathroom Vanity in White with Barn Style Doors

Are Farmhouse Sinks High Maintenance?

Farmhouse sinks are durable and don’t require a lot of care, but that ultimately depends on the material that you’ve chosen for the sink and how well it is installed. If you choose a material that stains or needs regular cleaning, for example, you will have more work than if you choose a material that is durable and easy to maintain.

Can You Put a Farmhouse Sink in Any Cabinet?

With the right installation, you can essentially install a farmhouse sink in just about any kitchen or bathroom cabinet that is prepared for it. This is where professional installation comes in handy. They will be able to come in and assess the state of the cabinet, determine what needs to be done, and then prep the cabinet for installation.

There you have it—everything you never knew you needed to know about farmhouse sinks and vanities. Check out the selection available for yourself and see if the farmhouse bathroom vanity style is right for your space.

Related: Do New Bathrooms Use Medicine Cabinets? YES! Take A Look

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My name is Julia Ritzenthaler, Founder and President of Unique Vanities, started in 2005. I started this business as an extension of our residential remodeling business, which focused on the design and build of custom cabinetry and architectural trim. I also worked as a financial advisor for 10 years at Ameriprise Financial, helping clients make sound money decisions, including budgeting for home improvement expenses. This expertise led me to start Unique Vanities, which offers a handpicked selection of high quality bathroom vanities, sinks, mirrors and more. You can find me most days sitting in Starbucks, my second office, or in my car driving my daughter across Dallas to gymnastics training.