13/11/2024

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Things to Consider When Installing a Glass Sink in Your Bathroom

Things to Consider When Installing a Glass Sink in Your Bathroom

If you’re having a glass sink installed in your bathroom, you’ll want to be confident that it’s going to stand the test of time.

Many people can be initially daunted by the prospect of a glass washbasin, but if you use the right methods of cleaning and care, it can prove incredibly study and durable – as well as giving your home a sleek and contemporary look.

On the whole, bathroom sinks, bathtubs and toilets are manufactured to withstand high temperatures and impact – even if they are made from glass. But it’s still important to care for them correctly to make sure they continue to serve you well.

No doubt when you were deciding which basin to bring into your home you took the durability of each material into consideration, but will still want to do everything you can to avoid having to replace it in the future. Obviously the method for cleaning and care will differ from stone or ceramic basins.

In terms of durability, caring for your washbasin begins at installation. It is always recommended that a professional plumber installs your sink, as the leading cause of breakage tends to be poor installation. The next thing to consider is how you will look after your new bathroom feature.

If the basin is made from glass, you’ll want to make sure you never pour scaling water into it. This is because a dramatic, immediate change in temperature can cause it to shatter and break, even though glass will usually withstand temperatures of up to 21 degrees Celsius.

It’s also important to make sure it is installed with a glass ring support underneath; this will make sure it stays tight and leak-free. A ring support can be particularly effective if the basin is being mounted on a marble or granite work surface.

Another thing to bear in mind if you’re opting for a glass basin is that it will be see-through. This means that excessive sealant will be visible through the material, so be mindful of how much silicone you use and where you apply it.

As you will already know, glass is also prone to shattering, even if it is high-quality, so make sure the plumber who installs your new wash basin knows to tighten the waste by hand, rather than using a spanner or wrench.

For further security, make sure you opt for a sink made from safety glass, which will be resistant to small accidental breakage – such as dropping a brush or bottle into it. However, be aware that a heavy object will shatter a glass basin – just as it would if it were made from porcelain.

Similarly, most glass basin manufacturers recommend that they should not be installed in areas where indoor temperatures aren’t regulated, as vast variances in climate can cause thermal shock – ultimately breaking the glass.

Unfortunately, one of the dangers of glass is that thermal shock could also cause it to shatter. Due to the nature of the material, once a breakage has occurred, however minor, the entire sink would need to be replaced for it to remain safe for use.

When it comes to cleaning, glass basins don’t require any special method, although it’s best to avoid using abrasive bathroom cleaning products, as these will permanently scar the glass. For similar reasons, don’t use scourers or rough pads.

The best way to clean a glass basin is with a soft cloth, vinegar and water – as you would clean a window. This will remove water spot and keep it looking sparkling clean.

So, when they are treated properly, glass basins can prove incredibly resistant to wear and tear, and will stay looking as beautiful as the day they were purchased.