The Ultimate Floorstanding Vanity Unit Installation Guide

Anyone who ever had a small bathroom knows the value of good storage. I was on the lookout for a practical, stylish, and economical small bathroom storage solution. The floor-standing vanity unit seemed like the perfect answer to my storage problems. However, installing freestanding vanity units as DIY felt like stepping into the unknown. I was not entirely sure where to start with vanity unit fitting. But after some research on Google, I was able to handle the task by myself. 

In this blog, I will share with you all the information you need for a successful floorstanding vanity unit installation in the UK.

Tools & Materials For Bathroom Vanity Unit Installation

Before you start, it is important to ensure you have access to all the tools and materials required to perform this DIY task.

• Adjustable spanner 

• Screwdriver (check if your unit needs Phillips or flathead)

• Spirit level 

• Silicone sealant & gun 

• Pencil & tape measure

• Plumber’s putty 

How To Install a Freestanding Vanity Unit -Step-by-Step Process

Here is how to install floorstanding vanity unit in the UK. Follow all the steps discussed. In case of any problems or anything you don’t understand, consider getting professional help. 

Prep Work: Get Your Space Ready

Estimated Time Required: 2-3 Hours

1. First things first. You need to remove old units, clean the floor, and check for uneven tiles or bumps. Freestanding vanities need a flat surface.

2. Turn off the water supply. Locate the isolation valves under the sink (or shut off the main supply if needed). Turn on the taps to drain any leftover water.

3. Assemble the vanity by following the manufacturer’s instructions to attach legs, shelves, or doors. 

4. Position the vanity where you want it. Mark the floor with pencil to note its placement. Check the wall for any underground pipes or skirting boards, and adjust accordingly.

Pro tip: If your vanity has a back panel, make sure to cut holes for pipes before moving it into place. 

Position the Vanity Unit

1. Lift the unit into place and check for the accurate level by using the spirit level on top. You may need to adjust the legs clockwise/counterclockwise until it’s perfectly horizontal. 

2. Most freestanding units don’t require fixing to walls. But if your floor’s uneven, you may have to install L-brackets on the back to stabilise it.

Connect the Plumbing

In case of existing taps, attach flexible hoses from the fauscets to the water supply valves. Initially, you have to hand-tighten the taps and then use the spanner for a quarter-turn. Remember not to overdo it or you might risk cracking the fittings. Once tightly attached, you will have to turn the water supply slowly and check for any leaks. 

For new taps, however, prefer fitting the taps into the sink holes. It’s better if you secure them with nuts underneath. Don’t forget to apply plumber’s putty around the base to keep a watertight seal. Once the faucets in place, move on to attach the trap to the sink outlet.

Secure the Sink (If Separate)

1. Apply silicone sealant around the rim of the cutout on your freestanding vanity top.

2. Lower the sink into place and press firmly. 

3. Let the sealant dry for at least 24 hours before using.

Seal the Edges

Before you start splashing water around the countertop, make sure all the gaps and nooks are closed up. You can apply a bead of silicone sealant to properly seal the vanity and sink along the back edge. 

Final Checks

1. Run hot and cold water to test the tap for any leakages around or under the unit. 

2. Try opening drawers/doors to make sure they don’t catch on pipes or walls. 

3. Over time, the unit might settle. Recheck the level after a week, if it feels wobbly or uneven, you may need to tweak the legs.

Hiring a Professional vs. DIY Installation

The installation of a floorstanding vanity unit is safer and more accurate when done by a professional. However, DIY installation is more affordable than professional installation and gives you more creative freedom if you have the necessary plumbing tools and knowledge.

Here in this table we have compared both the options to help you decide whether hiring a professional is more feasible for you or DIY floorstanding vanity unit installation is the way to go. 

Final Thoughts

Installing a floorstanding vanity unit as a DIY is not as complicated as it might seem to be. It can be handled with some knowledge of plumbing tools and information available online. It’s absolutely doable. All you need are the right tools, a bit of planning, and a step-by-step approach ( as discussed in this guide). Remember! The key to my successful floorstanding vanity unit installation was preparation, patience, and the right attitude.

Frequently Asked Questions