Bath sinks: twice as nice

Plumber

Q: We have a classic 1950s ranch with one big pink bathroom that we are remodeling next year. We have a very long countertop with only one small sink and a medicine cabinet. When we install the new countertop, can we add a second sink and a medicine cabinet since we have all that extra space? Is this a bad idea since it is the only bathroom in the house? It seems to us that double sinks are a master-bedroom kind of thing.

Laura, Rhode Island

A: I say that whenever you can use a homes existing plumbing system to your advantage, go for it.

The good news is that you should already have the sink water and drain lines right there under the countertop.

So if your existing plumbing is in good shape, a licensed plumber should be able to twin in a second lav sink. Ive done jobs like this. As long as the second sink can be installed according to local codes, it can be a very nice addition to any bathroom.

Now about the practicality of double sinks in the only bathroom in the house.

Well, Ive lost count of the number of times Ive used my living-area bathroom, only to find some laundry soaking in the single sink for that bathroom.

Bottom line: Adding a second bathroom sink can be a good investment for you, and going from single to double hopefully should be no trouble.

Master contractor/plumber Ed Del Grande is known internationally as the author of the book “Ed Del Grande’s House Call,” the host of TV and Internet shows, and a LEED green associate. Visit eddelgrande.com or write eadelg@cs.com. Sorry no personal replies. Always consult local contractors and codes.

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Bath sinks: twice as nice