Most standard bathrooms and toilets do not have much free space. There are a lot of such houses with typical apartments throughout the country. To equip a bathroom, you have to compromise in order to get both comfort and a little free space as a result. Usually only the most compact plumbing is purchased. But even so, everything you need may not fit. A good solution to a spatial problem is the sink above the washing machine. Installing it will allow you to win a little free space.
Benefits of this solution
Owners of small bathrooms are sure that installing such a sink is a completely and win-win solution. And yes, there are many advantages to such options. First of all, this makes it possible to efficiently organize the space of the bathroom using a combination of upper and lower tiers.
If shelves or cabinets are installed above such a sink, then the space is fully utilized. Even in small rooms it will be possible to place all the most necessary household appliances. You can find various washing machines and sinks above them in terms of design. This will also decorate the interior.
disadvantages
Along with the advantages of this approach, there are also disadvantages (and quite serious ones). This is a low level of electrical safety. Washing machines are among the household appliances for which any contact with water is categorically not allowed. The sink above the washing machine (photo of examples is in our article) will be connected to the water supply, which is a threat in terms of electrical safety.
Even minor leaks can cause fluid to enter the machine, causing the equipment to fail. Manufacturers supply special plumbing - the sink is equipped with a siphon in its rear. The design is such that even with leaks, water can not get on the machine or inside it. You can see such a sink above the washing machine in Leroy Merlin - these are the so-called “water lilies”.
Installation of water lilies makes the operation of the machine completely safe, but in terms of operation, such a sink is not always convenient. This is due to design features and a siphon. It is designed in such a way that the likelihood of clogging is increased. Water leaves not vertically, but horizontally. Spare parts for water lily sinks above the washing machine are not always found in stores.
If you could not find special plumbing equipment or a water lily cannot be used, there is another solution. The washing machine is installed under the countertop, which is common for the sink. Mount the countertop. It should be long enough. Under it, on the one hand, a washing machine is installed, and on the other hand there will be a built-in sink.
The sink above the washing machine with countertop is safer. However, unlike water lilies, more free space is needed here. Another caveat is the height of the washing machine. Most standard models have a height of 85 centimeters. If you install a sink over it, then it is not a fact that the latter will be comfortable to use. Of course, you can make something like a catwalk, but this is not always suitable for small bathrooms.
The height of household appliances that will be placed under the sink should be no more than 60 centimeters. Have to purchase special models. They are in the lines of various brands. Often such exclusive washing machines are equipped with matching sinks. This acquisition would be the best option.
That's all for the main drawbacks of the sink above the washing machine. You can not take it for a drawback that in the washing process it will not work out directly to the sink bowl, because the washing machine occupies a place under it. They quickly get used to it. These disadvantages do not outweigh the advantages of this approach. These solutions are very in demand.
Features of water lily sinks
Despite the shortcomings, many choose a water lily sink. The peculiarity is that its pedestal is hidden. At the same time, it is very compact, so it takes up a minimum of space. This sink got its name for its positive properties - it's stealth and location directly above the surface of the machine. Almost the same properties have a flower.
The main thing in these sinks is their location. The device is placed on the wall, also attached to the wall. She will not have any additional loads on the washing machine. Choosing this sink, you can not worry about the irrational use of usable area in the room.
It should be noted that this plumbing fixture is not the same type, which is produced in only one form and in one design. The market offers a huge selection of such devices. They are able to decorate any bathroom. Large selection of sinks over the washing machine at Leroy Merlin. To get the perfect composition, it is recommended to choose a product with a rectangular or square shape based on the characteristics of the washing machine. It must be understood that the sinks are round, oval, non-standard overall dimensions can also be harmoniously combined with the interior.
Products of this type are not equipped with a standard drainage system, but with overflow. Drain can be vertical or horizontal. The first is considered more practical - there is no water in it. The horizontal drainage system requires more frequent cleaning. However, the horizontal drain is outside the design. This improves security.
Sink selection
First of all, the overall dimensions of the washing machine are measured. To the depth add the size that will be occupied by the pipe. You should pay attention to the final size when buying a sink above the washing machine. The sink should protrude slightly from the side of the machine on either side. This can significantly reduce the risk of flooding.
For comfortable washing and the ability to approach the plumbing right in front there should be a ledge of about 20 centimeters in size. It may be smaller, but this will only affect ergonomics. If a washing machine has not yet been purchased, then you can purchase a kit that includes both appliances and plumbing equipment.
As for materials, the sink above the washing machine can be made of ceramic or plastic. Now cast models made of polymer concrete are very popular. You can buy them in Moscow or in St. Petersburg. The sink above the washing machine of this type in appearance resembles natural marble. Products are lightweight, high strength, resistant to aggressive influences.
Wall mounting
The installation of the sink over the washing machine is carried out on the classic brackets mounted on the wall. You can apply and finished products that were installed during construction. The advantage is a high level of reliability. Fasteners are supplied with plumbing. In modern models of washing machines, their own installation system with fasteners, which comes with washbasins, is often thought out. Using other fasteners in these cases is not very advisable.
Wall marking
To perform the installation, first you should try on the bowl itself and mark the places where the wall mounts will be made. It is important to note the line where the top edge of the machine will go. This will be the main line, and all the other markings will go from it. A bowl of sink is applied to the wall, given that there must be a gap between them. The dimensions of the gap depend on the sink and siphon. Then holes are marked. It is also worth considering the placement of the mixer. If it is common to the sink and bath, it is important that the spout fits well above the sink. In this case, the washbasin must be positioned so that one side hangs over the bath.
Holes and Fasteners
Then drill or punch holes. The size of the drill must match the diameter of the anchor bolt. Next, the bolts are installed in the holes, the brackets are mounted in their places and the bolts are wrapped. It is not necessary to tighten completely - leave a gap of 5 millimeters.
Bowl installation
The bowl is leveled and mounted on the brackets. In addition, you must remember to install a metal hook. On the sinks there is a special place on the back wall. To attach the hook, you can do with a dowel and a self-tapping screw. The hook can be installed from any convenient side. Only then can the bolts be fully tightened.
Where the sink will come into contact with the wall, it is necessary to process it with silicone sealant. This will prevent water from entering the back of the washing machine, as well as the development of mold and mildew there. It is worth processing the sealants and fasteners - this will protect them from rust.
Installation process
One of the most important aspects in the installation of any equipment is that you can not leave even a minimal possibility of contact between water and electricity. This can lead to disastrous consequences. The installation of the sink above the washing machine also includes the installation of a siphon, the installation of a mixer, and the connection of household appliances. If all the work is done correctly, a reliable and high-quality result will be obtained.
Install the siphon
Before the sink is fully fixed, it is necessary to equip it with a siphon. Corrugation is fixed to the sewer pipe. To drain the water correctly, check the tightness of the joints. Even minor leaks are an occasion to check each gasket and tighten all connections.
Install the mixer
When work with the siphon is over, proceed to the installation of the mixer. Most models have a hole for it. The mixer is connected with hoses to hot and cold water.
Fastenings are carried out using fittings. Do not forget to use gaskets. For better sealing, a fum tape should be used. After the installation is completed, a check is performed. It is important that there are no smudges.
Mounting a built-in washbasin
Water lily does not always fit. In this case , a sink-countertop is installed above the washing machine. If this method is chosen, then the bowl is embedded in a previously prepared base.
Template making and layout
First, you should make a template with which the countertop will be laid out. Manufacturers care about the buyer and complete products with such patterns. It remains only to cut it before installation work. To make a template yourself, you need to take cardboard, put a bowl on a sheet and circle the edges. Then the finished template is cut out.
If the sink will be supported by the sides of the countertop, then mark out differently. The template is placed where the sink will be installed. Then they circle him. Measure the sides, lay the distance inward from the edges of the hole. If there is a flat sink above the washing machine, flush with the countertop, then simply circle the pattern.
Make a hole
To make holes, first drill holes along the contour. Then, an electric jigsaw is inserted into one of them and a hole of the desired shape is cut out. Edges are treated - first with emery and then with sealant. Apply the latter should be plentiful. Then glue the sealing tape.
Bowl installation
Another sealant is applied to the tape, and then the bowl is installed. You need to shake her so that she finds the optimal position. After the sink is in place, you can tighten the bolts under the countertop. Do not use the device immediately. It is necessary that the sealant hardens.
Conclusion
If the bathtub is small, the space problem can be solved. You just need to select and buy a sink over the washing machine in Leroy Merlin or any other store. Its installation is simple, and in operation these washbasins are very convenient.