The Standard Distance Between a Sink Drain & the Floor

Bathroom Sink Height

• Many bathroom vanities are between 32 and 36 inches tall, with the lip of the sink at or slightly above that height. The sink itself might be deep or shallow, depending on the style. Many common bathroom sinks are about 5 to 10 inches deep, so the drain hole commonly lies about 22 inches to 2 1/2 feet above the floor. Plumbing can be adjusted so the drain can connect to the drain outlet correctly.

Kitchen Sink Height

• Kitchen sinks, like bathroom sinks, do not have a required height for installation. Hang the sink at whatever height feels most comfortable, as long as the drain can connect to its outlet. A height of 36 inches from the rim to the floor is somewhat standard and most comfortable for many people. Kitchen sinks commonly have a depth between 8 and 10 inches, so the sink drain would be about 2 feet off the ground in such cases.

Guidelines

• Rules for sinks become stricter when they require public handicapped accessibility. A bathroom sink cannot be more than 35 inches high, while a kitchen sink should be 34 inches or less. The sink itself must be a maximum of 6 1/2 inches deep. Handicapped sinks also have clearance guidelines. In addition to handicapped guidelines, common sense guidelines should be followed. The drain should be level within 1/64 inch in any 2-foot direction. The drain should be well-attached and should not move when it used. The sink trap should also be functioning properly and free from any defects.

Types of Drains

• Traditionally, kitchen and bathroom sinks have been manufactured with the drain in the center of the basin. This makes it more difficult to complete certain tasks, such as washing large pots. Manufacturers are now producing sinks with off-center drains, such as in the rear right or left of the sink. Keep in mind that when you buy a new sink with a deeper drain or a new garbage disposal, you might have to replace your drain.