Bathroom Vanity Installation Project
Date: 20 March 2025
Bathroom Vanity & Basin Upgrade – A Customer's Story
The article below has been written by one of Topline's customers, about their experience having their vanity and basin bathroom project completed recently. An interesting read from a customer's perspective.
Bathroom Sinks & Cabinet Upgrade Details:
Client: Sue D
Location: Epsom, Auckland
Project Description: Bathroom Vanity Installation
Bathroom 1 - Replace old single basin vanity with customer supplied double basin vanity and tapware.
Bathroom 2 - Replace old basin & vanity with customer supplied vanity and re-use existing tap.
Work Required:
Convert the pipework from a single to double basin capacity in bathroom 1. In both bathrooms install tapware, basins and vanity cabinetry attaching them to the wall - test for leaks.
Q: is upgrading my vanity worth it? A: yes!
Converting a Bathroom Vanity from a Single to a Double Basin
For years we’ve been putting up with a bathroom sink that really doesn’t suit our needs. The previous owners had selected an option that made the room look spacious – it was minimalist, a single basin with no storage. When we moved in, we didn’t mind at all. But very quickly it became evident it didn’t suit our needs. We added freestanding storage baskets either side of the basin to aid with the storage issue, but it still didn’t help with the main issue… having to share a basin with my husband.
First World Problems
I’m aware this is very much a first world issue, and we should be grateful to have water freely available, and a basin to call our own. We are.
But if you do have the means and the space to convert a single basin to a double basin with vanity, I’d highly recommend it – give Topline a call.
Finding the Right Vanity
After finally deciding to push play on this project, we measured up and off we went searching for the perfect vanity. There are so many options available, but our criteria was simple – a double sink, with flat surround (so it’s a useable surface) and plenty of storage in a style that suits our 1930’s home. Once you know what you want it’s simple.
Tapware to Suit Our Style
Next were the taps or faucets. We wanted something to fit in with the other tapware in our house, but it wasn’t an easy style to match. Surprisingly it was Bunnings where we ended up finding our tapware. It wouldn’t have been my first choice, but they do have a reasonable range and were the only supplier we could find with faucets in stock to suit our requirements (and budget, which is mid-range). We checked the fittings to make sure they were suitable and double checked with Topline.
It was time to call in the experts!
Plumbers for Bathroom Basin Replacement
Topline arrived on time and prepared. My husband had already removed the old basin – he’s always up for a bit of DIY, especially if a bit of demolition is involved. He knew how to disconnect the water before correctly removing the basin, but Topline would have done this for us had we needed it.
We’d sent photos of what was behind the vanity to Topline in advance so they would know what to expect, and the vanity and tapware to triple check they were all suitable.
There is more plumbing work involved to convert from a single to a double sink – it’s not just replacing like for like. I understand every install is different, as they don’t know what’s behind the vanity wall until it’s removed. In our case we had some supporting beams that were right in the wrong place which didn’t make it simple.
The guys at Topline set to work, putting down drop sheets to contain the mess. There was a bit of noise with drilling out bits here and there, but they explained what they were about to do (and we had no sleeping babies in the house, so no problem). I checked in to see if they needed anything every now and then, but there was no real need. They knew what they were doing and just got on with it.
Due to the complexity of the install they were here for most of the day, but their presence was surprisingly unimposing. They were polite, respectful, personable and professional. We were forewarned when they were going to turn the water off and when it was good to go again.
While they were here, they answered some questions about our gas hob too and gave us some advice and recommendations which was helpful.
Why Did We Choose Topline for our Bathroom Vanity Upgrade?
It was great to have tradies in our house we knew we could trust. We’d read on the Topline website about how all employees go through security checks and random drug tests. That was fairly big for us as you hear all sort of stories about things happening after trades have visited. We also liked the fact that Topline values quality and integrity. We were comforted they knew what they were doing and if something wasn’t right, they’d fix it.
Installation of Vanity, Sink & Tapware
Once the vanity was installed, basin attached and taps fitting correctly they spent a while running water and testing there were no leaks in the pipes. I had no idea about ‘traps’ or ‘overflow taps’ ‘shut off valves’ but they explained how we needed to check the traps the next morning to ensure there were no issues.
The finishing touch was running a line of silicone between the wall and the vanity.
Single to Double Basin Transformation
We couldn’t believe the transformation once the new vanity was installed. Even though it wasn’t cheap to convert from single to double vanity due to the complexity of our installation, I have no doubt it has added value to our home. They say kitchens sell homes, but I think bathrooms do too. By replacing the vanity, it really has totally enhanced the day-to-day functionality, it’s also improved the look of our home. It’s probably helped our marriage too.
It makes us kick ourselves for not doing it sooner.
Bathroom Sink Replacement
After the main bathroom was such a success, we decided to also replace the basin in our other bathroom too, so they’d match. This one was much more straightforward, replacing like for like with no pesky support beam in the way. We were able to re-use our original tapware here which was great too.
We’re ecstatic with the final result in this room too. We can’t fault the quality! We’ve had so many visitors comment on how amazing the improvement is. I think we’ve inspired a few people to upgrade their own bathroom vanities too, given the impressive results.
Thank you Topline – it was a job well done and we are grateful for your help with this.
Regards, Sue D.
Plumber Auckland
Bathroom Vanity Installation
If you are looking for an Auckland plumber you can trust to replace your bathroom basin and vanity, who has integrity and a reputation for quality workmanship, get in touch - we'd love to help! Phone 0800 111 818 or enquire online now >