Ask the Expert 
Plumbing for a basement sink
QUESTION: We are planning to renovate our basement bathroom. The existing plumbing pipe for the sink comes up from the floor and it seems that a full vanity is required just to hide this black pipe. The contractor has advised that there is nothing that can be done to change that, and that a pedestal sink or a vanity that is open at the base are not options. There isn't really enough room for a vanity - one of the cupboard doors on the previous vanity wouldn't open fully because the toilet is too close. We presume that the plumbing could be changed, but is the contractor really saying that it would be very costly to do so?
-- Cindy Rattle from Ottawa, ON
ANSWER:
The line can be rerouted to accommodate a pedestal sink, but I can’t tell you how much it will cost without looking at it. I would get an estimate from a plumber. How much time and money are you willing to devote to this task? A “false” wall could be constructed and the floor jack hammered up to make the proper moves to accommodate the new fixture. The pipe could then be run up the false wall to the proper height to the rough, which is the point where the pipes protrude from the wall to where the sink will be attached, in the pedestal sink. Remember that the line must be vented to provide air supply to the system and to be in code compliance.
Expert's Bio
Jim Jennette is an expert in the plumbing industry and works at the Mr. Rooter Corporation. With more than 20 years of plumbing experience, he is knowledgeable in many areas including installation of plumbing, piping and fixtures. Jim is also skilled in garbage disposals, water heaters and boilers as well as pipe bursting and relining, which is new technology to replace broken underground piping without digging up yards and sidewalks. Before operating a full-service plumbing shop for 15 years, Jim was an educator of English students. He now coaches Mr. Rooter franchise owners in every aspect of their businesses as a franchise consultant, a position he’s had for five years. Jim’s extensive knowledge and resources give him the tools to tackle any plumbing issue or question.
Related Questions
Latest Hot Products
59 Inch Modern Double Vessel Sink Bathroom Vanity in Espresso
This double vessel sink bathroom vanity features three drawers with bright polished chrome decorative handle on four matching legs. Read the details »