If one is an experienced home remodeler, then chances are they know what bathroom vanities are. However, many Americans have no idea. Walking into a bathroom, the first things one may notice are the sink and the shower or bathtub. What someone may not be aware of is that the cabinets used to store toiletries and toothbrushes, whether below the sink or above it, are actually called “vanities.”
Storage space is a valuable thing in any bathroom. The great thing about bathroom vanities is they are designed to look great as well. They can make a bathroom that formerly had no cabinets or drawers come alive with more beauty and texture. Homeowners everywhere are realizing the value of adding vanities to their bathroom.
A popular design style for bathrooms here in South Florida is the Mediterranean-inspired look. The countries of Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Greece have been influential in architecture and design throughout history. Other homeowners desire a more tropical design to complement the palm trees in the front yard or the beachy vibe of the town.
The functionality of a home is one of its greatest assets and impacts the quality of life while living in it. Beautiful and function pieces of cabinets, vanities, countertop, and furniture can optimize our living as homeowners. We have compiled a list of the most important reasons to invest in wooden bathroom vanities.
Typically, renovating your bathrooms and kitchen will increase the value of your house more than any other room upgrade. Custom vanities, cabinets, faucets, countertops, and sinks provide:
A more exciting and fun place to bathe, freshen up, and dress.
Increased use and enjoyment of your home.
A fabulous area to show friends, family, and guests
If you’re thinking about adding another bathroom in your home, let us install a custom-made vanity in it. You can match it with the other baths, or create something entirely new. Once we upgrade your bathrooms, keep them looking new. Here is some cool information about the benefits of having bathrooms vanities.
“Since most people spend a lot of time in their bathrooms, be sure to arrange yours to function well.”
Solid wood comes in two variations: solid hardwood and solid wood (all natural real wood). Solid hardwood is the most durable wood material and is made from woods like oak, cherry, and maple. Solid wood has tends to shrink and expand as humidity changes. Expansion can cause cracks in the painted finish and also warping (in extreme cases).
MDF or Wood Bathroom Vanities: Durability in Humid Conditions
Wood-and-MDF-Vanity
Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) cabinets don’t expand and contract as much as real wood but they can be damaged by moisture if water is allowed to penetrate the surface of MDF. This would result in swelling in your vanity. With proper ventilation, MDF can be used in the bathroom without an issue.
As an added precaution, you can seal the backs and edges around MDF cabinets with oil-based sealer and a few coats of poly. This will prevent warping and shrinking. This material “rivals the affordability and versatility of plywood and similar engineered wood.
Real wood is porous in nature, so it will absorb water molecules in the air. This is what causes vanities to warp over time. Because of its unique finish, MDF can prove to be a better material in the bathroom so long as it has a quality finish. Stay away from cheap MDF vanities because they will bring you headaches in the future.
Make no mistake, real wood is not a “bad” material by any means. It’s been used for centuries and is still the preferred option by many contractors. The strength and durability of solid wood are why many choose to go with wood bath vanities. By keeping humidity under control, most homeowners won’t have any problems.
Real wood carries a rich and natural grain texture that is authentic and appealing to the senses and looks better than MDF imitations. MDF mimics the look of a natural wood finish but can be distinguished by a keen eye.
Wall-Mounted Wood Vanities Are an Option
Wall-Mounted-Vanity
Wall-mounted or “floating” vanities are mounted above the floor that leaves space under them for storage. Our team can create this style of wood vanity and it provides these benefits:
Accommodate any height above the floor
Adds additional space for storing bathroom essentials
Makes cleaning under the vanity easier
Customized to meet and adapt to your personal needs
We have many plans and designs for traditional floor-mounted and floating vanities that are favorites of South Florida homeowners. Contact us for a free consultation and estimate.
Design Your Bathroom Space to Function to Meet Your Personal Needs
Since most people spend a lot of time in their bathrooms, be sure to arrange yours to function well. Whether it’s a new vanity, mirror, sink, faucet, closet, or lighting, do it up right and you will be happy for a long time. You can go even farther with texturing the ceiling or laying down beautiful tile. Don’t forget adding amazing hardware to your vanity doors and drawers.
Bright walls add a fresh and clean look to go with any style of wood vanity. Organize your room with adequate shelving or storage baskets to eliminate clutter. Be sure to let us know if you have special needs based on your health condition, height, or physical limitations.
Consider the Cost Your Budget Can Handle
MDF wins hands down in terms of cost. MDF bathroom cabinets can be ideal if we are remodeling on a budget. Wood vanities cost more but are usually stronger and available in more detailed designs such as hand carvings seen in antique, country, and transitional bathroom cabinets. We work with both materials to create the ideal bathrooms for your home.
Formaldehyde
One thing to keep in mind is formaldehyde VOCs. Formaldehyde is a byproduct of adhesives used to attach MDF veneers to the wood. This is the faint chemical smell associated with new furniture. For those who are sensitive to smell, it’s best to stick with real wood bathroom vanities.
Bruno Romano
Bruno is a Custom Cabinet and Millwork Specialist who takes pride in every job done, small to large. I am determined to provide the best customer service and quality woodworking to South Florida. You can find me on Google+ and Twitter
