Whether you’re remodeling an existing vanity or purchasing a brand-new one, the most critical factor to consider when purchasing bathroom vanities is the material you use.
There are numerous options, but a few are better suited to lasting longer than others. After all, you don’t want to spend every other year working on your vanity.
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What Are Bathroom Vanities Made Of?
Bathroom vanities are typically made of one of two materials: They’re made of plywood and solid wood. MDF, or medium-density fiberboard, is one of several options, including particleboard. Some of these materials are long-lasting, while others are water-resistant, and they all make lovely vanities.
The bathroom vanity, like many other areas of our home, is a vital space where we groom and dress before leaving the house.
The vanities have a lot of storage space, including a sink, built-in soap dispensers, and a cabinet. Additionally, bathroom vanities include storage for perfumes, cosmetics, and other skincare products.
When selecting a vanity material for such an important area of use, you must be careful. When you make a bathroom vanity, you need to use a material that is water-resistant.
Water splatters all over the vanity when you use the sink. Materials that can’t withstand water will make you have to change your vanity in a matter of days.
Furthermore, the material must be strong and long-lasting. Consider visual appeal and aesthetics. Most importantly, some vanity materials are more expensive than others.
Bathroom vanities are made from five different materials:
Bathroom vanities are made from a variety of materials, some of which are listed below:
Plywood
Plywood, like MDF and particleboard, is an engineered wood. It is made of thin layers of wood finish piled on top of one another using an adhesive, as the name implies.
Plywood is the best engineered material in terms of cost-effectiveness and smooth appearance. Plywood, unlike solid wood, doesn’t get warped or sag when it’s humid or wet. It’s also very strong and long-lasting.
Plywood is still a popular material for building bathroom vanities because it can withstand more moisture and is a great option for anyone looking for a low-cost material.
However, if too much water is absorbed, the plywood may weaken over time.
Hardwood:
Solid wood is widely regarded as the most durable and efficient material for making bathroom cabinets. For water resistance, solid wood must be painted and varnished.
This material can withstand high levels of moisture but expands if it absorbs too much. As a result, wherever solid wood material is used, humidity must be controlled. Bathroom exhaust fans or windows can help with such issues.
Many people prefer the look of a solid wood vanity because the finish is always smooth and aesthetically pleasing.
However, solid wood is the most expensive of all.
MDF:
MDF, which stands for Medium Density Fiberboard, is an engineered material made of compressed hardwood fibers and bound together with wax and resin glue. MDF is said to be made up of 30% solid wood.
Because of the low wood content, the material is also inexpensive. Although MDF is commonly used in bathroom vanities due to its low cost, it may not be the best option.
MDF is not water-resistant and must be coated with a water-resistant layer. When it absorbs water, it expands and eventually becomes weak. MDF has a smoother finish than other manufactured materials and is suitable for other cabinets in the house.
Particleboard:
Particleboard is a material made of wood parts and a chemically formulated adhesive that is manufactured under high heat and pressure. These boards are frequently finished with a more durable coat-like veneer.
Although particle boards are less expensive than other materials, their lack of durability is the primary reason for their decline in popularity. It does not hold up well to a lot of weight on top and can crumble if it becomes too weak.
Particle board vanities look nice and are less expensive, but when it comes to doing the job right, the other materials win.
Rubberwood
Rubberwood is a new, environmentally friendly option. Rubber trees are used to make this green material.
Many people who care about the environment use it as a bathroom vanity material, even though it isn’t very well known for its uniqueness.
What kind of wood is used in the construction of a bathroom vanity?
- Douglas Fir: Fir is a durable, easy-to-work-with wood that can be customized as desired. It is also a widely available wood for bathroom vanities.
- Mahogany: This wood is extremely durable and produces the most beautiful vanities. They are expensive, as is walnut, but they are prone to staining.
- Teak: Teak is a long-lasting and costly wood for vanity. It produces oils that make it naturally moisture-resistant.
- White or red oak: While less durable than other woods, this is a less expensive option.
- Maple. Maple vanities have a variety of smooth surfaces.
- Birch: A popular choice is birch, which has a close grain form and naturally becomes water-resistant.
What is the most appropriate material for a bathroom vanity?
The best material for a bathroom vanity is solid wood. You will never have to think about changing or redoing the bathroom vanity if the solid wood is properly coated, painted, and sealed.
Solid wood has been shown to be the most durable material for use in the bathroom.
The only disadvantage of solid wood is its high cost. Most people avoid using this material because it is out of their price range. A block of natural wood does not crack or bulge when humidity is controlled inside the bathroom via windows.
Furthermore, with so many different types to choose from, the classic look is in high demand.
If a person is looking for the best material that is also inexpensive, they should consider plywood. Although not as strong as solid wood, plywood is extremely durable in bathroom settings.
What materials are used to make bathroom vanity tops?
Bathroom vanity tops are available in a variety of materials. Granite is the most popular material, with marble close behind. Granite is available in a variety of grades, with some being more affordable than others. Granite and marble countertops are typically expensive, but they last a lifetime.
Solid surface is less expensive than granite, which is why it is also a popular material for vanity tops. Laminate is also commonly used in vanity tops because it is heat and stain resistant. Laminate is also reasonably priced. Laminate, on the other hand, is prone to denting over time.
Is MDF suitable for bathroom vanities?
When properly sealed and coated, MDF is a good choice for bathroom vanities. Although MDF is a low-cost engineered material that is used in many household construction projects, plywood or solid wood are better options.
MDF is a wood-chip composite that is glued together with wax and resin. Following that, a layer of coating is applied. MDF is also often mistaken for plywood, despite the fact that plywood is much lighter than MDF.
MDF is now commonly used in bathroom vanities due to its low cost and excellent water resistance. MDF, which is made of composite materials, may become weak and bend if exposed to water.
Although it is simple to paint MDF vanities, it is more difficult to repair them.
Is rubberwood suitable for a bathroom vanity?
Rubberwood is an excellent choice for bathroom vanities. Rubberwood is a zero-waste material made from rubber trees. Many people are drawn to the environmentally friendly nature of the materials.
Rubberwood is resistant to heat and moisture. It is also stain-resistant and has a smooth finish. The stern material is also reasonably priced.
Is it possible for me to build my own bathroom vanity?
If you have a limited budget or can’t find the style you want, you can make your own bathroom vanity. Here’s a simple design to get you started on your bathroom vanity:
- Install a long media cabinet in the location where you want the vanity.
- Make any changes you want to the front. Install sliding doors made of wood or glass.
- Install a vanity top made of granite, marble, or laminate.
- Add a mirror and additional racks to the vanity wall.
- If desired, add additional soap dispensers or towel holders.
What is the cost of constructing a bathroom vanity?
A bathroom vanity can cost around $1,500 to build on average. However, depending on a variety of factors, it can range from $500 to $3,500. Prices for ready-made vanities that only need to be set in place and installed range from $200 to $2500.
If you want to mix some of your own ideas and create a custom vanity, it can range in price from $500 to $3,000.
If you plan to build one yourself, you may be able to avoid the hefty installation costs, which can range from $200 to $1,200. This could vary depending on where you live and how long the process takes.
The cost of constructing a vanity can vary greatly depending on a few factors:
- What kind of material is used to make the vanity cabinets?
- What material is the vanity top made of?
- How many extra compartments will there be?
- Will it be made to order?
- How good are the faucet sets that were used?
- How much does installation cost?
Why are bathroom vanities so costly?
Bathroom vanities are so costly due to the designs and materials used for the vanity cabinet and vanity top. Many compartments must be constructed. A sink is already included with many bathroom vanities. Another reason for the high price could be this.
Furthermore, installation costs for the vanity are a factor in the price increase.
Because there is always so much water splashing and humidity in the bathroom, it is critical that the vanity material be strong and high quality. The vanity must be well-made, long-lasting, and visually appealing. And it will all be determined by the material of the bathroom vanity.