Bathroom Sink Drain Rough In Height

By | February 18, 2024

Bathroom Sink Drain Rough In Height

The drain line coming from a bathroom sink needs to be at a specific height to ensure that the sink drains properly and is level. This drain line height is measured from the floor to the center of the drain hole and is referred to as the "rough-in height." The rough-in height is also dependent on how tall the sink is, how tall the vanity is, and the specific drain system that is being used.

The International Plumbing Code specifies that the drain line rough-in height for a bathroom sink must be between 18 inches and 22 inches from the floor to the center of the drain hole. However, most bathroom sinks are designed to have a rough-in height of 20 inches. This height is appropriate for most standard sinks and vanities. If the rough-in height is too low, the sink may not drain properly and could cause water to back up into the sink. If the rough-in height is too high, the sink may not be level and could tilt forward or backward.

It is important to note that the rough-in height can vary depending on the specific sink and vanity that is being used. Some sinks may require a higher rough-in height, while others may require a lower rough-in height. It is always best to consult with the manufacturer's specifications to determine the correct rough-in height for the particular sink and vanity that is being installed.

How to Determine Rough-In Height

To determine the rough-in height for a bathroom sink, follow these steps:

  1. Measure the height of the vanity from the floor to the top of the vanity.
  2. Subtract the height of the sink from the height of the vanity.
  3. Divide the result by two.
  4. Add 1 inch to the result.
    1. This will give you the rough-in height for the bathroom sink.

      Installing a Sink Drain

      Once you have determined the correct rough-in height, you can install the sink drain. To do this, follow these steps:

      1. Apply a bead of plumber's putty around the base of the sink drain.
      2. Insert the sink drain into the drain hole in the sink.
      3. Tighten the locknut onto the drainpipe from underneath the sink.
      4. Connect the drainpipe to the drain line coming from the wall.
        1. Once the sink drain is installed, you can turn on the water and check for leaks.

          Troubleshooting Sink Drain Problems

          If you are having problems with your bathroom sink drain, there are a few things that you can check.

          • Clogged Drain: If the sink is not draining properly, it may be clogged. Try using a drain snake or a chemical drain cleaner to clear the clog.
          • Loose Drain: If the drain is loose, it may not be sealing properly and could be causing water to leak. Tighten the locknut on the drainpipe to secure the drain.
          • Incorrect Rough-In Height: If the rough-in height is incorrect, the sink may not be draining properly or may not be level. Adjust the rough-in height to the correct height and then reinstall the sink drain.