Concrete sinks: pros and cons, manufacturing details

No bathroom or kitchen is complete without a sink. Such products are made from a wide variety of materials, including concrete. Nowadays such an original sink is especially popular thanks to the spread of the loft style. It can not only become the highlight of the interior, but also successfully perform its functions.

Concrete sinks meet all the necessary requirements: they are strong, comfortable, durable, moisture-resistant, stylish in appearance and have a variety of designs. In addition, such a sink can be made with your own hands, and the plasticity of concrete will allow you to create the most unusual model.

Design options

Concrete sink designs can be classified according to a fairly large number of characteristics.
Depending on the design it may be:

• Concrete countertop with recess for sink
• Freestanding sink.

Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages. The choice depends on the room where the sink is supposed to be installed. For the kitchen, installing a combined sink would be an excellent option. So, without extra costs, you can install additional work surfaces, which are always the weak point of the interior, since a large number of surfaces is unsightly, and a small number is inconvenient.

For the same option to be appropriate in the bathroom, you need to have a room of sufficiently large dimensions. Rarely does a modern apartment have a bathtub of this size. But in a private house in a spacious bathroom this would be a good option. Such a sink will emphasize the spaciousness of the room. If this is not particularly necessary, then in the bathroom it is better to get by with a free-standing product.

Depending on the shape, the sink can be:

• Geometric shapes
• Traditional or round shapes
• Original

Here everything depends solely on the preferences of the owner. The only thing worth mentioning is the depth of the sink. If you are installing a purchased product, be prepared for a shallow sink depth. This was done for a reason. The fact is that only with such parameters concrete fully reveals its aesthetic properties. A deep concrete sink is not beautiful. Therefore, if, due to technical requirements, you require a deep sink, then it is better to choose a different material.

Features of wooden sinks

Wooden sink

Wooden sinks are not a cheap fad. Wood is a valuable and expensive material, such a product looks harmonious only in the appropriate interior.

The sink requires special conditions of use:

• it should not be exposed to high temperatures;
• in care, avoid the use of caustic acids, alkalis, and abrasive cleaning agents;
• clean from dirt with antibacterial soap and a soft sponge;
• To preserve the color and moisture-proof properties of wood, it is necessary to treat it with special oils or waxes once every three months.

Not every type of wood is suitable for making washbasins. Favorites for this are oak and teak. The latter is beautiful because it does not change color during prolonged interaction with water. Teak wood has a high rubber content, and therefore it is naturally protected from moisture penetration, cracking, and mold.

Oak is especially loved by designers. It is strong and only becomes denser over the years. It also has a lot of different shades, so it will be appropriate in any interior.

The sinks are made from hardwood - birch, maple, walnut. They are not as durable as oak or teak, but their price is noticeably lower.

The petrified wood sink is also worth mentioning. This material combines all the best qualities of the original raw materials. Having such an attractive wooden texture, the products are not afraid of high temperatures and sharp objects.

Benefits of concrete

So, let's look at the main advantages of this material and what sinks can be made from it.

The first is its low cost. This building material is available to almost everyone.

Secondly, high strength and reliability. Concrete consists of components such as cement, sand, crushed stone, and special additives (for example, marble or quartz chips). All these components give the material stability and durability.

The third quality can be called versatility. Concrete sinks fit equally well into any design style. This is especially true for loft, hi-tech, minimalism, and grunge styles.

Preparatory process

Preparation consists of acquiring the necessary materials and tools. To begin with, all the same components are purchased that are necessary for the production of a standard concrete solution. Namely:

• cement;
• sand;
• crushed stone;
• water.

Since the tabletop is a decorative element, it is worth considering the issue regarding its color design. For example, if you use regular gray cement, then the countertop itself will be gray. Fortunately, today there are a large number of colors that can be added to the mixture, choosing according to the color shade.

Basic materials

The tabletop must be poured into the formwork. It is made from several different materials. The main one is a sheet of moisture-resistant plywood with a thickness of at least 12 mm. Instead of plywood, you can use laminated chipboard or MDF.

To create the thickness of the tabletop, you will need boards with a section of 50x30 mm and several wooden blocks of 50x50 mm.

Tools

To make a concrete countertop, you will need the following tools: a shovel, usually a trowel, a spatula, a bucket, a construction mixer (if a small volume is mixed) or a concrete mixer.

To assemble the formwork you will need a saw and a screwdriver. To make a reinforced frame, use pliers. Do not forget that all formwork elements will have to be precisely aligned according to a pre-made drawing, so a ruler, level and pencil will also be needed. To measure the dimensions of the future countertop, you need to prepare a tape measure.

Design

Regardless of the final outcome of the manufacturing process, you first need to create a design. The completed drawing will facilitate the presentation of the entire production process, will help to anticipate and eliminate possible errors and difficulties. Generally speaking, the drawing will greatly facilitate the execution of all work.

Initially, it is worth finding out what components your kitchen set consists of. To do this, you need to study the available list of similar products and choose the required option. After this, you need to find out the exact dimensions of the upcoming concrete countertop. To find out, you need to measure the length and width of the empty area, taking into account the pieces of furniture that are nearby. In the event that the product will come into contact with a corner, you also need to measure the angle, since in reality it may not be straight.

For normal and full functioning, the thickness of the concrete countertop should not be less than 5 centimeters. But you shouldn’t make it much thicker, because in this case the weight of the product increases significantly.

The location of the sink in the kitchen, its size and shape are of great importance. It would be much better to purchase the sink before starting to manufacture the product.

In this case, it will be easier to make the hole, and the result will be more accurate. An equally important detail is the location of the tap, because it will also need a hole.

In the case of a built-in sink, you need to check whether it overlaps the countertop. If everything is in order, then you can start making a template for the hole. To do this, turn the sink over and outline it with a construction pencil.

In the case of an overlay sink, it is necessary to measure the inside part where it will come into contact with the overlay part. If the internal part does not have a rectangular shape, then it is worth making a rectangular template according to the largest measurements of the internal part. The main thing is to make such a hole that the sink will fit. It is even allowed for the hole to be slightly larger than required.

Now you can make a drawing of real size using the data obtained. To do this, you will need a sheet of plastic or chipboard. We carry out the design on it

We apply all the required dimensions and holes very carefully and carefully, everything should be as close as possible to the intended product

Stage 1. Planning - drawing up drawings, thinking through the design, measurements

So, let's assume you have already planned the design, color, additional features (like the same drawers in the plinth) and place for your future corner set. Next you need to take measurements, and then design a drawing using the data obtained.

Before taking measurements, you should determine the configuration of the corner kitchen set, which may include:

• Corner sink and cabinet underneath;
• At least 2 cabinets to the left and right of the cabinet with the sink. They can be niches for installing a washing machine, dishwasher, hob, or they can simply be storage cabinets;
• Upper sections (2-5 or more cabinets);
• Places for stationary equipment - refrigerator, stove, etc.

Advice! Vertical measurements must be taken at three points - in the middle, along the baseboard, under the ceiling. This will help level out the difference in measurements due to the curvature of the walls.

It is possible to design, complete the elements and assemble a kitchen, even if you only have a simple diagram drawn on graph paper or on a sheet of notebook in a square, where, for example, 1 square corresponds to 10 cm. But it is better to make a well-thought-out drawing, that is, a full-fledged three-dimensional color project using a special program such as “PRO100”.

When drawing up the drawing, you will also need to take into account the place where the gas pipe is inserted and the place where the hood is installed (passage of the air duct route). A diagram or drawing is created with maximum detail, after which a material cutting map is drawn up. And for this, in turn, a list of assembly parts for each module is required. As a rule, to assemble a cabinet you will need:

• Top;
• 2 side walls;
• Bottom;
• Shelves;
• Facades;
• The back wall is made of lightweight but durable chipboard;
• Edge (with a margin of 12%).

And, of course, the kitchen must have a countertop and an apron.

We draw a drawing and select materials; preparations are in full swing

One of the most important steps on the path to producing a concrete surface is creating a drawing. This is necessary in order to know exactly the dimensions of the tabletop, as well as its appearance. To ensure that the product is firmly attached and does not wobble during operation, it must be installed as tightly as possible to the walls. You should also not forget about the sink - its dimensions and location are indicated in the drawing. The same applies to the corner, because kitchens are very often corners, and that’s where it usually happens. Ideally, the angle is straight and 90 degrees - this will greatly facilitate the work process. If the angle is slightly different, you will need to take this into account during construction work, and also note it when preparing the drawing.

In some cases, it is recommended to make a surface from several individual components. This method is due to the fact that for large kitchens the surfaces are very bulky and heavy. If the product is divided into several smaller structures, then it will be much easier to work and install them. In addition, it will be possible to avoid cracks and chips that may appear in the event of unsuccessful processing or moving heavy objects. Having drawn a sketch, you can begin collecting the necessary materials and tools. Choose high-quality and reliable equipment. For work you will need the following items:

• plastic sheets 18 mm thick;
• plywood sheets;
• hardwood boards;
• sand and cement for mixing the solution;
• polymer concrete made from acrylic resins;
• reinforcing mesh to strengthen the structure;
• decorative elements - shells, small pebbles, broken glass to decorate the surface;
• spray adhesive;
• silicone sealants;
• colors – special coloring pigments to give the surface the required color shade.

Naturally, we cannot do anything without tools. For successful work you will need the following tools:

1. 1. building level;
2. 2. wood hacksaw;
3. 3. screwdriver – required for installation of formwork and its subsequent disassembly;
4. 4. spatulas, levelers, trowels for working with uncured concrete;
5. 5. polishing wheels;
6. 6. sandpaper;
7. 7. grinding machine.

Designer models

This type has little functionality, pursuing design goals. They are installed for decoration or cooling drinks. They are made of different materials: copper; bronze; glass; wood; stone.

The advantages of overhead sinks include a successful combination with any kitchen interior design.

This is one of the popular models for the kitchen. The advantages include:

• simple installation;
• democratic price.

The disadvantages are the gaps between the walls of the cabinet. Installing overhead sinks is considered a simple job, especially with standard module sizes.

This type of sink is more suitable for kitchen sets consisting of separate modules; they are easily installed in corner kitchens with standard dimensions.

Kitchen sink made of artificial stone

Preparation of formwork

When making your own countertop, it is important to complete this area of ​​work with the utmost precision and accuracy. After all, the strength of the product and its appearance in general will depend on the quality of the workpiece.

After a decision has been made regarding the height of the structure, parts of the required length need to be cut from the beams - these are the vertical parts of the future formwork. They will need to be secured to the floor. To do this, you will need profiles. If the contact with the walls is direct, then the racks must be drilled through. They are secured using anchor dowels. After fixation, the vertical parts are connected to the horizontal ones. Thus, the formwork frame is ready.

To make the lower part you will need a wooden MDF sheet. The formwork must be made in such a way that the concrete can be pulled out later without damaging it.

If the countertop has a sink, then you need to place a metal ring inside in the required place. Also, when using the hob in the future, this place must also be marked.

Bathrooms are a special place in the home, an island of bliss created for relaxation and relaxation. Being alone with yourself and soaking in a fragrant bath after a hard day at work is a great pleasure.

Despite the often compact size of this room, it is important to create a cozy and comfortable interior in which an atmosphere of peace and harmony will reign. Bathroom arrangement should be taken seriously, carefully considering every detail

Incorrectly selected furniture and accessories can immediately ruin the entire look and impression of the interior. And, conversely, a small touch, and the interior will be transformed and sparkle with new colors

Bathroom arrangement should be taken seriously, carefully considering every detail. Incorrectly selected furniture and accessories can immediately ruin the entire look and impression of the interior. And, conversely, a small touch, and the interior will be transformed and sparkle with new colors.

Straight sink cabinet: design

The design of the straight cabinet is the simplest of all the modules in the lower part of the kitchen set. It includes only 5 elements:

• side – 2 pcs;
• horizon – 1 piece;
• body strip (KP) – 2 pcs.

Calculation of the size of this cabinet should begin with determining its width.

If the cabinet is an element of a direct kitchen unit and is located in its extreme part, then:

1. It is necessary to determine the size of the sink built into this cabinet.
2. The width of the interior space of the cabinet should be slightly larger than the built-in part of the sink.
3. The distance between the sink and the wall should be at least 50 mm, since the countertop is sometimes trimmed during installation. Additional space is also required to install the baseboard.

The design of the sink cabinet is slightly different from the design of other kitchen cabinets:

1. The housing strips are fastened vertically.
2. The cabinet strip located on the front of the cabinet is lowered 10 mm down and shifted slightly deeper.

The cabinet strips are mounted vertically, since with horizontal mounting it will be problematic to embed the sink - you will either need to partially cut the cabinet strip or move the sink closer to the back. In the second case, the sink either will not fit into the dimensions of the countertop, or will be installed too tightly to the wall, and this will interfere with the installation of the baseboard.

The cabinet strip is shifted 4-5 mm in depth so that the bolts on which the handles are attached do not interfere with the door closing normally.

In addition, the cabinet strip is moved down 10 mm so that the fasteners of the sink to the countertop do not rest against the strip and do not create a gap between the cabinet and the countertop.

The rear cabinet strip is mounted in a vertical position to save the internal space of the cabinet, which is necessary for the embedded part of the sink, drain lines and pipes for supplying water.

These are the main points that relate to the design of a straight sink cabinet.

Stages of work

Regardless of the product being manufactured, you first need to find out its size and shape. If you are replacing an old countertop, you can use its measurements.

If a completely new product is being manufactured, then it is worth taking measurements of the base, and also taking into account the existing requirements for the selected room

In order to have a template before your eyes, you can try to make a drawing of the tabletop on paper; you are even allowed not to make marks for different types of holes. Next you will need a full-fledged life-size template. To do this, you need to take a sheet of thick cardboard, of such a size that you end up with a full-fledged template. If the cardboard is small, then for the actual volume of the product you will have to glue the parts together. If you have large cardboard, then simply cut out the required layout. When the template is ready, you need to check that it fully matches the dimensions. To check, you should place it on the desired area and make sure that everything is accurate and there are no distortions. After such checks, the concrete countertop will be completed quickly and easily. Now you need to divide the template into separate parts. Once you have ready-made detailed templates on hand, you can begin production of the product itself.

Choosing a sink - type, shape, material

The choice of size and shape of the kitchen sink directly depends on the area of ​​the kitchen. All sinks are divided into 3 types:

• round;
• square;
• modified previous options (oval, rectangular, with beveled corners, etc.).

The most popular are round products. There are the following types of sinks:

1. With one bowl, which can be round or square. The first one is more spacious and suitable for small kitchens, therefore it is more common.
2. With several bowls. Installed if there is free space in the kitchen. The tap is placed between the bowls or at an angle to them.
3. With two bowls of different sizes. The smaller part of the sink is used for washing fruits, vegetables or defrosting food.
4. Corner with several bowls.
5. With additional work surface. The space is primarily used for drying clean dishes. Some sinks have holes for draining water. Sinks have one or more bowls.

• stainless steel;
• ceramics;
• artificial stone, which is divided into 2 types:
  acrylic;
• agglomerate.
• wood or stone.

The most common material is stainless steel. Nickel and chromium, which are included in the composition, contribute to a long service life without loss of appearance. Sinks can have a glossy or matte surface, ornament or texture. You can make a cabinet under any kitchen sink with your own hands. Making the item yourself is especially suitable in the case of non-standard shapes or sizes of the sink.

Style and design

The style of sinks varies depending on the shape of the bowl and its surround. In the kitchen, as a rule, the bowl is installed on a surface made of rough, varnished wood. This combination of incompatible things gives a special effect, which in design is called eclecticism.

The bowl shape is usually a flat stone with a small notch in the middle. Bowls in the form of a hemisphere stand separately

They look nice and are chunky enough to attract attention, but they're more of a decorative item than a handy device. Therefore, it is better to refrain from such a purchase

Bowls recessed into the countertop are particularly convenient and functional. It’s easy to move dirty dishes from the countertop into this sink without spilling anything on the floor. Otherwise, everything depends only on the customer.

Positive and negative sides

The floor-mounted corner cabinet is quite common in modern kitchens. It has several advantages:

• Takes up much less space, saving space. To achieve such a positive effect, you need to correctly select all the other attributes of the kitchen set.
• High level of ergonomics. You can place quite a lot of things in such cabinets. Many headset models are complemented by several sliding systems and a set of drawers. This way you can choose the desired level of comfort and functionality.
• The practicality of the design allows you to access the entire space, using it to solve various problems. For example, an L-shaped cabinet provides a full view of the entire site, while trapezoidal structures accommodate special rotating trailers. Such systems can move outside, providing easy access to all their parts.
• Modern design. Cabinets are made in a wide variety of colors, which allows you to choose them to suit any interior style.

But a kitchen cabinet of this type is not universal and has several negative characteristics:

• A relatively small container can be placed inside the box to collect waste. This creates discomfort for families of several people.
• The reliability of this system is much lower than direct designs. This is due to their shape, which does not withstand various physical stresses well.
• High cost compared to standard modifications.

The process of creating a concrete sink

So, we’ve prepared the tools, learned about the pros and cons, been inspired by the forms, it’s time to get to work!

Markings are applied to the prepared (cleaned of paint or plaster) wall surface near which the sink will be located. To avoid distortions, a building level is used. Since you will be creating your masterpiece from scratch, there are no restrictions, you are guided only by your taste.

Now it's time to start formwork. First, make a layout from cardboard: firstly, this way you will clearly see the result that you need, and secondly, if the expectation does not coincide with reality, it is faster and easier to remake a cardboard layout than finished formwork.

After this, you can begin to bring it to life. The base and sides are made separately, then they are fastened together with self-tapping screws and steel corners. The joints are treated with sealant.

Now we create something with which the sink will be firmly attached to the wall - the fittings. We use a hammer drill and a drill to punch holes in the wall for the rods. We put a metal washer on each of them, weld it and hammer it in so that the reinforcement fits tightly into the wall. The intersections of the rods are also welded or tied with wire.

We install formwork on the resulting structure. Additionally, we attach it to the wall with corners, dowels and self-tapping screws. But that’s not all: since the next stage is already connected with concrete, we immediately place brick supports below, which will take on its entire mass.

Time to get to the solution! Mix cement, sand and granite crushed stone in a ratio of 1:3:3. Then add the same amount of water as this mixture is obtained (that is, if half the bucket is filled, then you need to add enough water to fill the bucket completely).

Mix our “porridge-malasha” with a construction mixer. After this, we pour it into the formwork in layers. If you want to create a decorative colored surface, then a separate solution is prepared for concrete with dye.

Now we just have to wait. After a week, you can remove the formwork and plastic pipes. Dismantling is done from top to bottom. It is best not to remove the supports at this stage, even if the sink looks solid.

You can start decorating. It's up to your taste: you can lay tiles, or simply sand the surface and apply a moisture-resistant coating to it.

In a month, the concrete will finally harden and all you have to do is remove the supports and connect the plumbing equipment. All is ready! Happy washing your hands and dishes!

Instructions in a few steps

Let's look at how to make a very simple hanging cabinet for a bathroom sink from 40 cm thick pine furniture board.

Step 1. First of all, you need to make the appropriate markings on the pine board and saw it. There should be several parts - the sides of the cabinet, as well as its upper and lower parts. You need to saw strictly along the pencil lines drawn in accordance with the dimensions.

Cutting furniture board

Step 2. Next, you need to make cuts at the edges of the walls at an angle of 45 degrees. This is necessary to ensure the correct joint of the parts.

Cuts are made at an angle of 45 degrees

Another photo of the process

Step 3. Then both side walls and the bottom need to be laid exactly in one row and connected with tape. You need to glue the elements with adhesive tape on the front side of the shield. This measure will help to smoothly glue the parts into a single box.

The walls are connected with tape

Step 4. After this, you need to carefully turn the workpiece over and coat the cuts (45 degrees) with wood glue, then assemble the box.

The saw cuts are coated with glue

Step 5. Now you need to attach the tabletop to the top of the box. The cuts also need to be coated with glue beforehand.

The top part of the box is attached

Step 6. After this, you need to tighten the box with tape and zip ties.

The box is secured with tape

Screeds are also used

Step 7. Next, you need to ensure the reliability of the connection between the sides of the box. Dowels will be used. To do this, you need to drill deep holes with a drill of the required diameter in the end parts of the future cabinet so that they pass through the lower and upper parts of the box and its end parts. Then you need to pour glue into the holes and insert a wooden dowel there, also coated with glue.

Holes are drilled

Glue is poured

Wooden dowel winds up

Step 8. The cabinet needs to be left in this position alone, and when it dries, you need to saw off the excess protruding dowels.

Excess dowels are trimmed off

Step 9. It's time to start sanding the product. The first step is to sand off the protruding parts of the dowels, then sand the entire surface of the cabinet.

Sanding the structure

Step 10. Places where dowels are inserted, as well as all connections in the area of ​​joints and corners must be puttied. Before further work, the putty must be dried.

Applying putty

The putty must dry

Step 11. Now you need to sand the product again.

Re-sanding

Step 12. Next, the cabinet needs to be painted and treated with protective compounds. By the way, there are certain paints and varnishes that will not only give the tree a beautiful look, but also additionally “preserve” it and protect it from exposure to water. The coating layer must be thoroughly dried. The main part of the cabinet is ready.

Treating the cabinet with a protective compound

Step 13. It's time to start making the facade. It will be made of plywood. You need to cut out the façade part to the required size.

Facade detail is cut out

Step 14. Now the facade blank needs to be sanded.

The workpiece is polished

Step 15. After sanding, smooth plywood must be carefully primed. Do not skimp on the primer composition - this measure will reduce the consumption of paint and varnish material.

Primer is applied

Step 16. Next, the surface of the facade needs to be sanded again.

Re-sanding of the facade

Step 17. Then the facade needs to be coated with a layer of varnish and left to dry.

The facade is covered with a layer of varnish

Step 18. Now you can return to the cabinet itself. It should be additionally reinforced from the inside with a chipboard frame. To do this, you need to cut the elements to the required size and secure them inside the box with self-tapping screws, repeating the outline of the cabinet. The dimensions of the inner chipboard box should be slightly smaller than the main size of the cabinet.

Chipboard parts are cut

Formation of the inner box

Step 19. Next, inside on the sides of the cabinet you need to attach telescopic guides for the drawer to the self-tapping screws. They should be parallel to each other.

The guides are attached with self-tapping screws

Attaching telescopic guides

Step 20. Now you need to make a drawer for the cabinet. It will have a curly shape, in the back there will be a recess, which is designed to ensure that the box fits where the pipes will run. The side walls of the box must be cut from chipboard to specified dimensions, and the bottom must be made from plywood.

Drawer parts are cut out

Another photo of the process

Step 21. It is best to assemble the box using glue with an additional tie with self-tapping screws.

Assembling the box

Box assembly process

Step 22. Telescopic guides need to be attached to the drawer. To do this, they need to be screwed with self-tapping screws to the walls of the drawer from the outside, maintaining a small gap at the bottom between the drawer and the bottom of the cabinet.

Fastening the guides

Step 23. At the top of the back of the cabinet you need to screw fasteners that will allow you to fix the cabinet to the wall. These can be simple but strong corners secured with self-tapping screws.

Fasteners are screwed on the back of the cabinet

Step 24. The cabinet needs to be hung on the wall. It needs to be placed under the sink and the locations for drilling holes in the wall should be marked. Next, you need to drill holes in the wall, install dowels and hang the cabinet.

The cabinet is hung on the wall

Step 25. In the upper part of the cabinet you need to make a hole where the drain pipes from the sink will pass. When the hole is cut, it is necessary to coat it from the inside with sealant.

A hole is made in the upper part

The edges of the hole are coated with sealant

Step 26. All that remains is to attach the facade. To do this, you need to screw in self-tapping screws in the box at the place where the facade is attached, but not all the way, but so that they come out a little bit through the front side of the box. Next, the facade needs to be placed in its “rightful place”, leveled using wedges (in this case, the role of wedges is played by folded pieces of paper) and a little pressure is applied to it. When the façade is removed, there will be small recesses on its reverse side - imprints of self-tapping screws. Now you can drill holes in the place where these marks appear, and then simply screw the facade with self-tapping screws to the box. The cabinet is ready.

Façade alignment

The facade is attached to the cabinet

Step 27. All that remains is to install the bowl on the cabinet.

Finished vanity unit

It is better to coat the bottom of the bowl with sealant and place it on the countertop. The work has been completed. All that remains is to connect all communications.

Video - Cabinet made of aerated blocks

What you need to make a concrete sink with your own hands

For this purpose, sand concrete M300, M400 or M500 is best suited - these are the types that can provide the most smooth surface. It will be even better if you add a plasticizer to the solution. Not everyone likes the gray color of concrete, so if you are one of them, you can additionally purchase a special dye at a hardware store.

You will also need clean fine sand (from 1.2 to 2 mm). Just wash and dry it before use.

Don't forget about the formwork. It will require particle boards, boards or sheets of plastic. If you want to experiment with shape, thin sheets of zinc-coated steel are ideal, as they are strong and bend well. In addition, you will need sheets of cardboard to create the layout.

To reinforce concrete, you will need steel rods with a diameter of 10–15 mm, and to strengthen the joints, you will need corners and tapes of the same material, fasteners and sealant. To support the weight of the sink while it dries, you need reliable supports - I recommend bricks as the simplest, most durable and inexpensive solution. While drying, the sink should be wrapped in plastic film, so make sure you purchase that too.

If you want to make an external finish, for example, with tiles, then you will additionally need tile adhesive and grout.

And finally, a list of necessary tools:

• jigsaw;
• hammer drill with concrete drills;
• screwdriver or screwdriver;
• hammer;
• metal scissors;
• welding machine;
• a large bucket to mix the concrete solution in;
• construction mixer;
• ruler or tape measure, pencil;
• building level.

Features of country washbasins

A washbasin that can be used for a summer residence is generally a small structure that does not have a connection to water supply or sewer pipes, but performs simple functions that enable the user to maintain the proper level of hygiene of the body and home. So, usually the structure of a washbasin consists of only a water tank and a small sink (and in some cases there is none). The latter can be hung on the wall or installed on a cabinet. The water container can have different volumes - this will determine how often you will have to fill the tank in order to use the washbasin. However, such designs are not particularly large in size.

Typically, the washbasin tank is filled with water as needed. To use it, you need to open the tap or press a special lever, and the water will flow. Once the tank is empty, you can refill it with water and use the sink.

You can use a country washbasin in the following cases:

• the need to rinse your hands after dacha work;
• washing hands and face to maintain hygiene;
• washing dishes;
• rinsing small items.

Due to its small dimensions and small volumes of water, it will not be possible to use the washbasin for larger purposes (for example, taking a shower).

Advantages of a country washbasin:

• ease of installation anywhere;
• ease of making with your own hands;
• small dimensions;
• simplicity and ease of use;
• mobility - the washbasin can be easily moved to another place if necessary;
• the water in it quickly heats up under the rays of the sun - you can use warm water. However, there are country washbasins with the ability to heat water.

Disadvantages of this design:

• the need to frequently collect water;
• in cold weather, the water in the sink will remain cold;
• for the winter it must be emptied and removed from the street, otherwise it may be damaged;
• impossibility of full connection to the water supply and sewerage system.

Execution options

There are no restrictions on the shape - rectangular, square, round, with curves... Order a washbasin with or without a countertop, with one sink or with another required quantity. The base for the tabletop is made from any material that you can independently find elsewhere or purchase from us.

Advantages of the countertop sink from the Bershovo workshop:

1. Stylish design that will harmoniously complement the interior of the room.
2. The monolithic design guarantees protection against leaks.
3. There is additional space for placing the necessary items.

• if you want to visually expand the space, choose narrow and long models,
• To fill spacious rooms, massive options are used (thick and wide countertop with 2-3 sinks).

You can buy a bathroom table with a countertop by calling the number listed in the “contacts” section. The company's consultants will answer your questions.

Loft is now more fashionable than ever. And that’s why everyone wants to replace even the usual earthenware sink with something more “lofty.” There are eccentric solutions, for example, a copper basin with a hole in the middle or a galvanized bucket, but such ideas are difficult to combine with a modern interior, and are not very convenient to use in everyday life. If you don’t want to complicate your life, then a sink made of real concrete will become the highlight of your loft and cannot be compared with any other option, in all respects.

Concrete is still not earthenware, but that’s why we’ve gathered here, to find out all the pros and cons.

It's at least original.

This is exclusive - each of our sinks is made by hand and can be considered a work of modern art

It is durable - a high-quality concrete sink will last for centuries, and maybe even thousands of years))

It is reliable - breaking off a corner is as difficult as with a faience sink

This is unique - the picturesque texture of concrete cannot be imitated by any other material

Now about the cons:

Vulnerability. A concrete washbasin can be either varnished or protected with impregnation. In the first case, it is well protected from dirt, but the coating is easier to scratch than earthenware enamel. In the second case, it is difficult to scratch, but it is necessary to constantly (once every 2-3 months) renew the impregnation, and if this is not done, then sooner or later stains may appear, which only sanding will help get rid of.

Price. Setting up a sink production process on an assembly line is very difficult. Therefore, if we are not talking about a piece of foundation weighing 200 kg, but about a sink made of high-strength and beautiful concrete, weighing an acceptable 20-40 kg, then this is painstaking manual labor with a large number of stages, complex technology and expensive materials.

Since all over the world, concrete sinks are much more often protected with varnish, we will tell you about it in more detail. Varnish for concrete in the interior meets several requirements:

1) it must be non-toxic;

2) lay down in a beautiful matte thin layer so that it is difficult to identify as something foreign;

3) do not allow water to pass through, because if the varnish allows water to pass through, it will also allow contaminants to pass through

4) be as scratch resistant as possible

Only one type of varnish meets all these requirements to the maximum - polyurethane, and even then not just any one. We conducted many experiments to choose the best varnish, but, unfortunately, we never found the perfect one in all respects. So when purchasing a concrete sink, prepare to be treated with care.

Don't expect miraculous performance and practicality from concrete or you will be disappointed. Although if you take care of such a product properly, then there will be no problems with it. Do not use aggressive acidic or strongly alkaline cleaning agents or abrasive sponges.

PS: And for lovers of everything real, I recommend bare concrete without coating. In this design, the sink will be as natural as possible. And over time, becoming covered with patina during use, it will only get better.

Safety regulations

The manufacture of products from epoxy resin should only be carried out in compliance with safety rules:

1. When working with epoxy resin, you need to wear protective clothing, be sure to protect your respiratory organs with a respirator and your eyes with goggles.
2. The place where work is carried out must be well ventilated.
3. If epoxy gets on your skin, wash it off quickly with soap.
4. Do not pour resin into food containers.

Expert opinion

Oleg Vasiliev

Master of making furniture and interior items from epoxy resin. She creates unique items to order in her own production.

Ask a question to the master

This means containers from which you plan to eat or drink something later, and using, for example, disposable cups for mixing resin is quite convenient and cheap.

Advantages and disadvantages

Concrete as a material for a sink has a fairly large number of advantages:

• Low corrosion activity and resistance to moisture. Concrete coated with a special composition will retain its appearance and shape for decades.
• Low material cost. Concrete is not a natural stone, so the cost of making or purchasing a concrete sink yourself is quite comparable to buying a regular ceramic sink
• High aesthetic qualities. Using various types of coloring additives, you can change the color of the sink within a fairly wide range. In this case, the shape of the future sink is determined by the casting mold, which can be absolutely anything. And special inclusions, which are created by replacing crushed stone with another filler, can create a full-fledged imitation of marble.

There are also disadvantages to a concrete sink, like any construction solution:

• Bulky. No matter what shape the future sink has, it will look bulky in any case. This technique is not suitable for elevated interiors. The design of a bathroom or kitchen in the style of a medieval castle or a rustic style will go perfectly with this choice. In addition, you need to take into account that bulkiness visually reduces the height of the room. Therefore, for low rooms it is better to choose a different design.
• Weight. No matter how much you call concrete an imitation of stone, they weigh, if not the same, then very similar. Therefore, it requires mounting on reinforcement that passes through the entire wall. For mounting, it is better to choose a load-bearing wall. An option for those who don’t want to drill into a load-bearing wall is to install a separate shelf under the sink. Such a shelf will easily support the weight of the product and will not require any special installation skills.

How to improve the appearance of a chipboard cabinet

An elegant version of a sink with a cabinet for the kitchen
Having made a cabinet for the sink from ordinary chipboard, one more step will be added to these steps - transform the appearance and protect yourself from harmful fumes.

• Apply a thin layer of putty and smooth with a spatula. After this procedure, the surface will become smooth.
• After the putty has dried, apply a primer.
• Apply tint varnish. We use a brush with natural bristles.

Some people consider wallpaper as a finishing option. Wallpaper should be washed. Glue to the surface using PVA glue. Having made a similar cabinet for a sink in your country house or apartment, you will definitely not be disappointed. You will use your design talent, save money and enjoy further contemplation of the creation of your labors.

Required materials and tools

The whole difficulty of pouring a sink with your own hands is that for it, like for any concrete product or structure, you need to make formwork. The formwork must be reliable and waterproof. Therefore, the materials used are boards, OSB boards, moisture-resistant chipboard panels, the thickness of which should not be less than 20 millimeters.

To create the shape of the sink, or rather its bowl, you will need a metal sheet no more than 1 millimeter thick. Typically galvanized sheet metal is used for this. To create a reinforcing frame, you will need metal reinforcement bars with a diameter of 10 millimeters. Be sure to purchase furniture corners, with the help of which the parts of the formwork are connected.

Tools you will need:

• hammer drill with drills with a diameter of 10 millimeters;
• metal scissors, which will be used to cut out the shape for the sink bowl;
• screwdriver for fastening formwork;
• hammer;
• saw or jigsaw;
• mixer for mixing concrete mortar;
• container for mixing concrete mortar;
• building level;
• roulette;
• pencil;
• notched spatula;
• plastic pipes for forming a sewer drain (40 millimeters in diameter) and a mixer landing site (32 millimeters in diameter).

For the manufacture of plumbing fixtures, it is recommended to use concrete grade M400 or M500. The classic recipe for M400 concrete is one volume of cement, two volumes of sand and crushed stone (1:2:2). Since a concrete solution using artificial stone technology is used for the sink, instead of crushed stone, granite or marble chips should be added to the mixture, or better yet, screenings, which are three to four times cheaper.

Washbasin and sink

You can use containers of various sizes, foot-operated washbasins, washbasins with a factory-made tap, or ready-made wall-mounted washbasins. If an in-house water supply system is used as a water source, then it is possible to use both cold and hot water. This system significantly increases not only the level of comfort, but also the quality of washing.

A plastic, enameled or stainless steel sink can be built into the outdoor and home versions of a homemade washbasin. Steel sinks are durable and practical. Plastic sinks often lose their integrity even from minor impacts. The enamel is prone to chipping and is not very suitable for outdoor use.

Unique products from the Bershovo workshop

Take, for example, bath countertops made of decorative concrete; they look very stylish and elegant. They can become the highlight of any bathroom. In addition, this material is excellent for use in damp areas. A bathroom sink and countertop made of decorative concrete will serve you for many years without complaints.

You will find a large assortment of countertops for bathtubs made of decorative concrete here in the Bershovo workshop.

Such products are created from decorative concrete, which has high performance characteristics: it is resistant to temperature changes, humidity and the formation of mold and mildew.

The strength, resistance of this material to chemical and mechanical influences and reasonable price have made decorative concrete a material in demand today.

It is an excellent alternative to natural stone, while it is more pleasant and “warm” to the touch. And due to its antibacterial properties, it is also hygienic.

And this is a very important requirement for products intended for furnishing a bathroom.

Decorative concrete sinks create a special look in your bathroom. Decorative concrete sinks provide the opportunity to choose the color, thickness, style and shape of the product. Whether the sinks will be used in your bathroom or powder room, in a commercial office or restaurant application, requiring double or triple fabrication options, we can help you achieve a solution to your design challenges. Decorative concrete sinks will be made especially for you to suit any of your design requirements. We can offer you ready-made solutions in our Store or choose from the design options presented on this page.

Washbasins made from plastic bottles ↑

The simplest homemade washstand ↑

From a plastic bottle you can make several types of simple washbasins for your dacha. It all depends on how long you need this design. If you need a washbasin while repairing a water supply system or at a picnic, even a schoolchild can make it. You will need a plastic container from 2 to 5 liters, the bottom of which must be cut off. Moreover, if you do not cut it to the end, you can leave the bottom as a hinged lid, which will protect against debris and insects. The bottle must be secured to a vertical support. Now let's decide on the tap. You can attach a pressure spout to the neck, but many people use a regular lid. When washing, the lid is slightly unscrewed until water flows out, and then screwed back on. You can make a pressure spout yourself from a nail with a wide head. The cap will act as a plug inside the container.

The simplest version of a bottle washbasin

Washbasin with dispenser ↑

There is an interesting design using a plastic bottle and a disposable syringe. Instead of a dispenser, a piston from a syringe of the appropriate size is used. Such a washstand can be used, without fear of spilling excess water, at a picnic or hanging in the garden of a summer cottage.

Washbasin made from a plastic bottle and a disposable syringe

Sink creation technology step by step instructions

The first step is to make all the necessary calculations and make a cardboard model of the future workpiece. The cut out planes are fastened together with a glue gun into three-dimensional shapes. Knowing all the dimensions, you can accurately calculate the volume of the sink and purchase the appropriate amount of materials.

Immediately regarding the composition of the mixture. To prepare a good sink, a concrete mixture using M-500 cement is quite suitable. The amount of water should be determined by the consistency of the solution, but the optimal water-cement ratio will be 0.3-0.35, that is, an average of 0.33 liters of water is poured per 1 kg of cement. Additionally, it is necessary to add plasticizer S-3 or SP-1 to the concrete in the amount of 0.5% to 1% of the weight of the cement.

The ratio of dry components is as follows: for one part of cement, take 2 parts of sand and 3 parts of small crushed stone. Since the structure will be small, you should be very careful in the selection of each ingredient for concrete. Buy cement from trusted manufacturers, with a strength grade of at least M-500, crushed stone should have a maximum fraction of 5-10 mm, and either buy sand specifically in construction stores, or sift it through a sieve with a 2x2 mm mesh.

In this case, a mixture was used, the consistency of which was selected experimentally and will depend on the quality and percentage of water in your sand. Focus on the consistency, which is clearly visible in the photos below.

After creating a cardboard model, you need to draw on it on laminated chipboard sheets every detail of the future shape into which the mixture will be poured.

The mold parts are attached to each other using a screwdriver and self-tapping screws, and the cracks are sealed with silicone sealant. Make sure that all internal surfaces are as smooth as possible, so that you do not later find unnecessary depressions or humps on the surface of the finished sink. Make all corners and junctions without sharp joints: create a smooth transition between surfaces using seams made of silicone sealant.

The next step is optional. In this project, it was planned to create a backlight, so glass balls purchased in advance were broken and fixed in shape with glue. Also, to enhance strength, reinforcement should be made in the form of a mesh of metal wire.

For future holes for plumbing and drain installation, plastic pipes of the required diameter are placed on the form. In the last photo you can see how a layer of sealant has been applied at the location of the future drain. This elevation on the form will then provide the necessary slope for water to drain when using the sink. A metal cover is installed on the hill, onto which the pipe is then attached.

Next, you should fill the horizontal surface of the mold with the solution - the future tabletop. During the laying process, the mixture is constantly processed with a concrete vibrator so that it fills the entire volume of the form as best as possible.

After this, the outer shell formwork box is placed on this surface. As you can see in the photo, it is an enlarged inner box mounted on horizontal slats. These strips are placed on the edges of the countertop formwork, causing the outer shape of the sink to hang above the horizontal surface, creating voids around the inner formwork. The solution is placed into these voids with a spatula.

The inclined plane, after filling with the mixture, is also covered with a sheet of chipboard.

When the entire solution is poured into the mold, it is covered with plastic film so that the liquid does not evaporate from the surface of the solution for at least another 7-10 days. This is necessary so that the concrete undergoes the process of gaining strength. If this part is not followed, the concrete will crack over time.

After the required period of time, the film and formwork are removed.

Next, the concrete surface must be sanded and coated with a protective compound. Here you will need a special grinder with a number of revolutions per minute from 4 to 5 thousand and a water supply. It can be rented at specialized rental shops.

And this is what the finished sink with countertop looks like.

Initially, a special lamp was placed in the mold, which can be seen in the photographs depicting the process of laying the concrete mixture.

It is made of a large number of light-transmitting fibers, distributed throughout the entire volume of the tabletop when pouring the solution. If you connect it, then at night the surface glows beautifully in those places where pieces of broken glass are located.

Important points

A sink (sink) made of epoxy resin, made with your own hands, is already the highest design class, due to its 3D shape, that is, volume. Moreover, the techniques that sculptors use in casting three-dimensional objects are completely unsuitable here. It's all about such a property of epoxy resin as exceptional adhesion, that is, the ability to penetrate into the structure of those materials with which it comes into contact during hardening.

Here, Vaseline, fat or soap, which the same sculptors use to isolate the casting form from the casting itself, so that they can then easily separate one from the other, will not work: they themselves will react with the epoxy, becoming part of its structure and only slightly changing its plastic properties, and you will have to tear it off “with meat”, hopelessly ruining the product and the expensive materials spent on it. Therefore, to isolate the matrix from the product being formed, a special molding and insulating wax, Honey Wax, is used.

In addition, unlike making flat surfaces like tabletops or chair seats, you will need at least 2 times more tools. These can be milling cutters, grinders with replaceable discs, and grinding wheels operating in “wet” mode, when the surface being processed is constantly wetted with water.

In the room in which the sink will be manufactured, reliable supply and exhaust ventilation is needed, because the gases and volatile substances released during the polymerization of epoxy are very harmful to health. Don’t forget about abrasive processing of molding materials or hardened epoxy resin: there will be no extraction, everything will be covered with a thick layer of dust. You need sufficient lighting, a workbench with clamps and clamps. So to mold this kind of product you need an insulated, fairly comfortable electrified shed or a ventilated and fairly spacious basement, but not a living room in an apartment or house.

Useful to know > How to make a table from epoxy resin with your own hands, production features

Formwork and reinforcing mesh influence of elements on product quality

The next stage is to form a wooden frame or formwork, into which we will pour concrete mortar to give it the required shape. It is necessary to make a strong frame that can withstand the pressure of concrete for several days. Formwork largely influences the quality and aesthetic appearance of the finished product. To create it, we use plywood sheets laid on a flat surface. Next, we transfer all the lines and strokes from the drawing to the plywood, exactly repeating the shape of the future tabletop. It is necessary to install wooden blocks 50 mm high along the perimeter.

To give the frame the necessary strength properties, pay special attention to fastening the walls. To do this, we will use long screws (at least 6 cm) or metal corners, which will provide connections of sufficiently high quality

Depending on the size and type of sink and faucet, we will determine the space for the sink. Today, overhead and built-in sinks are popular. There is not much difference between them, this also applies to cost. If you choose an overhead sink, then the only significant difference is the horizontal side, about 3 cm wide. When drawing up sketches and forming wooden frames for concrete, you need to remember this.

Experienced craftsmen note that countertop sinks are optimally suited for installation in self-made countertops. The reason lies precisely in the above-mentioned side, the presence of which makes it possible to allow small errors when forming the hole for the sink. In addition, built-in sinks have special seating chamfers, which cause great difficulties in the manufacture of a concrete surface. To make a hole for the faucet, you can use various tools. A plastic pipe with a cross-section of 35 mm is best suited. This diameter is the standard for faucet pipes.

After this, all we have to do is install the reinforcing mesh to strengthen the concrete structure. An ordinary steel mesh with a cell size of 25x25 mm is suitable. It is necessary to select the mesh so that it does not touch the walls of the wooden frame. Thus, the distance between the reinforcement and the formwork should be about 2 cm. There is one trick that allows you to avoid any appearance of the mesh on the surface of the concrete - you just need to cover the base of the formwork with a regular polyethylene film. In this case, the concrete will be even and smooth, but the mesh will remain inside and will not stand out in relief.

Choosing a cabinet and sink

Even if you decide to make a table for the sink with your own hands, you will have to buy and choose a lot: the sink itself and the faucets. When purchasing, you need to take into account not only the cost and material, but also the design, characteristics, and dimensions.

In fact, the cabinet should simply match the height and size of the sink. It is advisable to choose a material with a moisture-resistant coating. Consider the presence of drawers, since handles and drawers in this case can interfere with washing dishes.

When choosing a sink, you need to consider the following features:

It should be roomy. If you don't have enough space in your kitchen, opt for a deep, single-bowl sink. It is worth remembering that a sink is needed not only for washing hands and vegetables, but also for large enough dishes. The smaller the sink, the more likely it is that splashes will hit the walls. However, if the bowl is too deep, you will have to bend over, which is also not very comfortable. If you have never installed a sink yourself before, do not choose a sink with a complex shape. The best options would be a square or rectangular sink. It’s easier to make a cabinet or hole in the countertop for it. However, for example, round sinks, even with the same volume, are considered more spacious and convenient. Ideally, the sink should have a wing on which dishes will dry. In this case, you will have to select a cabinet for the sink individually, but such a drying rack will help protect the countertop from moisture. You can choose a sink with a chopper, an additional bowl, a grater and other accessories

It will cost more and will require special care during installation. In this case, the cabinet is made standard, according to the size of the sink. When choosing or making a cabinet, you need to take into account its functionality, as well as its appearance.

It should match the entire kitchen interior. If there is not enough space in the kitchen, choose the simplest version of a cabinet with one door. Also consider the design of the cabinet itself. If you have heated floors, you should not buy a cabinet without legs, as the wood will dry out. However, this option is suitable for those who have an uneven floor, since in this case it will be more difficult to install a cabinet with legs. Don’t forget that the sink should look harmonious and fit into the interior of the kitchen. An excellent solution would be to illuminate the kitchen sink with your own hands. This will not only add a certain sophistication to the interior, but will also serve as an additional means of lighting for greater comfort.

Installation and connection

Installation and connection of the product is no different from conventional sinks made of familiar materials.

An interesting solution would be to install it on a table. With this placement, it will be possible to appreciate the attractive design of both the external and internal parts of the washbasin. In addition, other communication elements will be hidden. The faucet can be mounted on the wall or fixed to the countertop.

The highlight of the interior will be the sink mounted on the wall using brackets. This way the design creates the effect of lightness - it seems to float in the air. In this case, other elements of the communication system are hidden in the wall.

It is easy to install the built-in version. It will look especially attractive when the cabinet and sink are made of the same type of wood. In this case, they will be a single stylish element in the room. In this case, the plumbing should be made in a minimalist design.

Making a sink from solid natural wood is easy. This product will be the highlight of any room. With proper care, your sink will delight you for many years.

With the development of modern production technologies, over the past century and a half, we have become accustomed to sanitary items made of ceramics and metal, which will no longer surprise anyone. The most elaborate models made of porcelain and earthenware have become commonplace. Stainless light steel for kitchen sinks has replaced heavy cast iron coated with enamel.

To give a home exclusivity, they try to use unusual materials or use them in an unusual design. Thus, sinks made of glass or natural stone are considered an extraordinary design solution. They can be quite expensive. What about the tree? According to many, wood is difficult to imagine in plumbing - it can only serve as furniture or a decorative element. However, this is a big misconception, and modern designers are successfully destroying this myth.

Where and how is natural dolomite mined?

In the natural environment, dolomite is found as a yellowish or white compound with a crystalline structure. According to its characteristics, it resembles limestone, and its deposits are located next to layers of clay with limestone. Salt water is required for the formation of the mineral. Since dolomite is a residual rock, its strength is determined by its depth: the deeper the mineral layer, the stronger it is.

In Russia, dolomite is mined in the Ural Mountains, the Caucasus, the Moscow region and Central Asia. Its deposits are found in Switzerland, Spain, and the North American continent. The largest are in Mexico and the Lake Ontario area.

Dolomite is mined in quarries using borehole charges or the drill and blast method. The mineral is crushed into pieces using hammer and jaw crushers. Next, it is fired in shaft-type furnaces with remote fireboxes. Ball or other mills are used to grind the material.

Dismantling the formwork, preliminary assessment of the result

When the concrete has dried, you can dismantle the formwork. After unscrewing the screws, you need to remove the side walls. This will be extremely easy to do; concrete will not stick to the laminated chipboard surface.

The bottom part of the fiberboard formwork may stick to the mortar, but this will not be a big problem. Subsequently, the product will still need to be processed.

PHOTO: YouTube.com The formwork has been removed, you can proceed to dismantling the internal part of the matrix

Polystyrene foam crumbles easily, which means that if you pick up a simple chisel, you can remove it from inside the sink within five minutes. Therefore, you should not stop at this stage for a long time.

PHOTO: YouTube.comFoam from the sink can be removed using a regular chisel