ShareThisQ: Fortunately, I don't have a plumbing problem with my house. But I am having a problem with a snooty friend who always tries to act smarter than me, even when it comes to plumbing. This friend is installing a new bathroom, and she had to brag that they are getting a "console tabletop"-type sink. I have never heard of that type of sink, but did not want to sound like a fool, so I just nodded and said, "Very nice," and left it at that. Is she just using a fancy term for a normal bathroom sink? Or is this console-type sink something really special? I hope not, but I need to know. -- Brenda, Georgia
A: Let's first talk about the three main types of bathroom sinks.
First, and most popular, is a "vanity" style, where a top-mounted sink simply sits in a closed-box cabinet. This is great for extra storage and is usually an easy installation. Next, a "pedestal" sink rests on a single finished pedestal, has a more complicated installation and is considered a bit more attractive than a vanity. Then we have a "vessel" type sink that actually installs above a countertop to give the illusion of an old china washbasin. Because of the decorative finished china walls of the sink, plus the need for special faucets, a vessel sink is usual a pretty high-end choice.
However, there are other high-end-sink choices, and a "console tabletop" sink is one of them. Console sinks actually combine elements from all three of the sinks listed above. It's basically a custom-made stand or console with two to four legs, which create an open frame to support a finished tabletop-type sink. Think of it along the lines of a fancy aquarium stand with a beautiful sink fitted on top. Not only does it look nice, but with added shelving in the stand, storage is also possible. If you still think of your friend as "snooty," I'm sorry to tell you that she will be getting a very expensive, high-end bathroom sink.
Q: I read your column all the time and will trust your judgment. I recently had a new water heater installed and my plumber put in an extra control he called a "water-heater expansion tank." It added costs to the bill. My old water heater never had one. Was this extra control necessary? -- Ralph, New Mexico
A: Sounds like you have a good plumber, or he or she may just be following new local codes. When water is heated it expands, and if there is no place for the expanded water to go it may cause the temperature and pressure blow-off valve on the water heater to leak. A thermo-expansion tank -- or domestic water-heater expansion tank -- is usually a small, air-charged tank with a rubber diaphragm inside that is installed on the water lines of the water heater. The little tank helps the plumbing system by collecting the expanded hot water. Even if these tanks are not yet required by your local codes, a properly installed water-heater expansion tank is an extra safety control, and I'm all for the best installation possible. This is why I always say to hire "licensed and insured" plumbers in your area. A good plumber should know all the newest codes and be up on all the latest plumbing-safety equipment for your home.
(Master Contractor/Plumber Ed Del Grande is known internationally as the author of the book "Ed Del Grande's House Call" and for hosting TV shows on Scripps Networks and HGTVPro.com. For information, visit eddelgrande.com or write eddelgrande(at)hgtvpro.com. Always consult local contractors and codes.)
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