Sink — a mandatory element of every living space. The development of modern technology allows you to create sanitary ware using different materials. Particularly popular are products made of ceramic, artificial stone, stainless steel. But the real highlight of the room can become a sink made of natural wood. In the article we will tell about the features of using wooden sinks in the interior of bathrooms.
Features of wooden sinks
Since ancient times, wooden objects and coverings have been universally used in households. This is an excellent material for the construction of houses, baths, households.
It is difficult to imagine a real Russian bath without wooden water containers: barrels, tubs, font. Wood interacts well with water, and with proper treatment of the material can serve for many years.
Wood fiber is environmentally friendly, gives the room a kind of aesthetics, and is also able to emphasize the interior design. For this reason, wooden washbasins for the washbasin have recently been particularly popular. In its finished form, a wooden sink acquires a stylish gloss. Such a model can become one of the main design accents of the room.
Of course, in order for the sink made of wood looked stylish and retained the functionality of the material for a long time, wood should be subjected to special treatment. That is why in the production of such products in the polishing process is used multi-layer protection with lacquer and certain compositions that allow to strengthen the resistance of wood to water.
Another peculiarity of wooden sinks is the property of the material to acquire a darker shade over time. This factor is different for each species. Manufacturers, interested in the quality of their products, will certainly offer and advise a set of means that can preserve the original shades of wood. Some models of sinks require mandatory periodic treatment with special oils.
The sink needs special conditions of use:
— It should not be exposed to high temperatures;
— In the care exclude the use of caustic acids, alkalis, abrasive cleaners;
— Clean dirt with antibacterial soap and a soft sponge;
To preserve the color and moisture-protective properties of wood, it is necessary to treat it once every three months with special oils or waxes.
But not every type of wood is suitable for making washbasins.
Materials
Over time, masters have experimentally determined which species of wood is most suitable for interaction with water. Nowadays, sinks are made of the following materials:
— Oak. One of the most durable species of wood, which acquires additional strength from water. It was used to make the first water pipes in medieval Europe. Oak has a wide range of shades, which allows you to find the perfect option for every taste.
— Teak. A valuable material that has a high rubber content. Thanks to this property, teak sinks have additional water-repellent properties. Oily substances in this wood prevent the formation of fungus and mold. When exposed to water, the wood does not darken over time, retaining its original shade.
— Bamboo. A durable material that has a wide color spectrum from the lightest to rich dark shades. Bamboo is slightly cheaper than oak and teak, as it does not fall under the full definition of «wood».
— Hardwoods. The most economical option, as products made of them are not so refined and durable. However, the wood of maple, birch, acacia or walnut is perfectly amenable to processing, takes any shape, and under the influence of special compositions becomes quite strong. In production, the method of pressing and gluing small particles of wood, impregnation with wax and oils, lamination is used. But the product can also be made of solid wood with further processing and impregnation.
Style trends
First of all, wooden sinks are able to emphasize the style of rooms oriented on natural wood.
Wood is perfectly combined with any other materials, so for the decoration of the sink will be suitable for items made of:
— Glass;
— Natural stone;
— Metal.
Favorite styles of designers for including wood sinks in the interior are:
— Country;
— Eco;
— Ethno.
Rustic motif of design will play with new colors, if in the style of «Russian hut» or American country add a wooden hand basin, decorated with carvings.
The rustic design motif will shine with new colors if you add a wooden hand basin decorated with carvings to the «Russian hut» or American country style.
Stylish sinks made of wood will decorate the style of chalet, give it nobility without detachment from the surrounding natural environment.
Rustic style rough wood will give brutality, especially in combination with raw stone.
The tenderness of Provence will be emphasized by a whitewashed oak sink and wrought iron ornaments with patina or gilding.
To the eco style will add a natural element, which is not a lot in such an interior. A cabinet under the sink in the eco style can be made of natural or artificial rattan.
But also refined classic is not alien to the unusual manifestation of shapes and texture of wooden sinks. Clear geometric shapes, shining lacquer on noble wood, will look truly luxurious and respectable.
But for ultra-modern styles, it is better to choose a different material, closer to artificial raw materials and the latest technology.
Popular manufacturer of wooden sanitary ware:
The company BARELWOOD — presents sinks made of wood rectangular and rounded shape. The pattern of wood rings is arranged in such a way that the sinks resemble blossoming tropical flowers.
In industrial production for the sinks are used sheets of veneer, which are impregnated with a special moisture-protective resin, and then glued under high pressure.
Methods of installation and connection
Regarding the installation of wooden sinks do not differ from the usual faience sinks. The methods of installation, water supply and drainage are the same.
The most visually appealing option is to mount the sink on the countertop. In this case, the owner can admire both the outer and inner sides of the wooden bowl rising above the surface of the furniture. In this method, unattractive communications are hidden, and the mixer can be removed from the wall or fixed to the pedestal.
Very effective is the cantilever method of installation, when the sink is attached by brackets to the wall. Having no base, it looks light, weightless, as if floating. Communications are placed in the wall and do not distract attention from the design object.
The recessed sink is simply installed. If the countertop and sink are created from the same species of wood, tightly fitted to each other, the whole design will become a wooden art object. The sanitary ware should have the simplest forms.
Care details
Despite its durability, wood is a rather demanding material that requires careful handling and special care, so the usual methods of use and cleaning for earthenware and metal will not work here.
To make the sink last for a long time, you should follow some rules of care and operation:
— Do not put hot objects, do not pour boiling water. Wood is exposed to high temperatures, so unattractive marks may remain on the surface of the sink.
— Clean the sink only with soft sponges and antibacterial, non-alkaline compounds. Aggressive substances can penetrate and then destroy the structure of the wood and the coating, so do not use abrasive cleaning agents with chlorine and bleach.
— It is undesirable to interact the surface with sharp objects that can scratch the protective layer;
— Especially greasy food residues should be avoided, as they may cause difficulties in subsequent removal;
— Wooden sinks should not be used in kitchens where there is a high risk of grease contamination or boiling water coming into contact with the surface;
— It is necessary to periodically treat the sink with special compositions, including oils and waxes. Preventive treatments are carried out every three months. This will prolong the service life of the product, as well as preserve its water-repellent qualities and color.
