I bought this dual sink vanity from Craigslist: It included the 2 sinks, the hardware, countertop and the base cabinets. ($200.) At the time, I thought it was an OK deal, not the best, but a 2 decent cast iron sinks and hardware can run up to $200.
I wouldn’t have bought it if I knew then, what I know now. First off, I was in a hurry, because I really thought I would have the cabinet in by the first week of July. It is not even close to being installed yet! The 2nd issue was despite all the measurements, we are remaking the vanity (more cost and time) The next issue- even though the faucets were in good condition, didn’t want them. In the frenzy of finally getting a bathroom there are certain things you forget so decided to write down these words of wisdom:
1.) Make sure there is good lighting for you to do a total inspection of the cabinet in question.
2.) Know in advance where your plumbing in the back will go through. If it’s not the same as the vanity you are salvaging, you will have to put in some work to make it sturdy or to retro-fit. We cut out some of the back and braced it with some leftover wood.
3.) Check that it has solid wood construction. If it is particle board with that thin layer of covering, you might have problems. The problem with newer cabinets, especially if they are pulled out of a condo or track homes, the construction may be sub par. The vanity I bought was basically glued together, some of the screws were stripped.
4.) Is the material paintable? The vanity I bought is that standard off the rack type, and it is not even taking the primer well. (Benjamin Moore Eco Spec Primer) I have to paint it because we re-arranged the order and had to cover the screw holes, and some demo damage.
5.) Check the hinges out. Make sure they are concealed or in working order. If not you will be replacing hinges. Look for Euro-Hinges. Fortunately the hinges are OK.
6.) Check the height out. I have to make my taller, which is more materials and time in constructing a base platform.
7.) Drawers: Make sure they are dovetailed. If not, you might have problems with the drawers coming apart later. Check the parts of the sliders are working and in good order.
8.) Transport: I have a Honda Element which holds alot. Even with blankets and padding, I did some damage in the transportation
9.) Sinks: Double check there are no cracks in the sink. Take a rag and some cleaner and really inspect each inch of the sink to insure no cracks. I looked, and there didn’t appear to be cracks, but now I find some. Don’t know whether I missed or they showed up in the transportation.
10.) Many people show the product when it is still installed. Always buy after the it is taken out. There can be too much damage in the removal.
11.) Know that you will have to clean it up. Some people may get a little squeamish about other people’s ‘cooties’. Especially when you are dealing with things like drains. It was pretty yukky!
Bottom line the $200.00 Vanity which was a decent deal, is turning into a $300.00 vanity with time and materials and that is not counting the countertop, of which I have yet to order!
Resources:
How to get the most Kitchen and Bath Cabinets for Your Money
bathroom vanities that are made of wood looks elegant and stylish””;