What are Tap Landing Sinks?
Choosing the right sink for your kitchen or bathroom can be a challenging task, especially when it comes to deciding between a sink with a tap landing and a sink without one. To help you make the best decision for your needs, here are the pros and cons, plus some tips!
In the past, the manufacturing of pressed sinks involved shaping a sheet of metal into a specific design using a machine. This machine pressing process meant there was a lot of excess steel wasted as tight corners were impossible; this created excess steel between bowls where tap holes were put on the sinks. While tap landing sinks were more common in the past, they are still used today and remain a popular choice for many homeowners.
What are Tap Landing Sinks?
Now, what is a tap landing sink? A tap landing sink is a type of sink that has a flat area on the surface where the mixer can be installed. This flat area is often referred to as a "tap landing" or "tap platform." A tap landing sink is designed to make it easy to install the mixer, as there is no need to drill a hole into the benchtop. Instead, the mixer can be installed directly onto the tap landing using screws or other fasteners.
Tap landing sinks are available in a variety of materials, including stainless steel, ceramic, and composite materials. They are often used in kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. The design of the tap landing may vary depending on the type of sink and the number of mixers or accessories required. Some tap landing sinks have multiple tap landings, while others may have a single tap landing in the centre or on the side of the sink.
For the kitchen, the Theo sink is a highly sought-after option for homeowners seeking a hassle-free replacement for their old kitchen sink. With dimensions of 1200x500, this double bowl sink features a convenient drain board and a tap landing. The design is purposely intended to make the installation process quick and easy by acting as a drop-in replacement for existing cutouts. Due to its popularity, Buildmat launched a new sink to their range - the Jayden 1200x500 Single Bowl Tap Landing Sink. Measuring 1200x500, this sink has an extra-large single bowl, making it an ideal choice for large households. Similar to the Theo sink, the Jayden sink is also designed to offer straightforward and simple installation, making it a great option for homeowners who want to upgrade their sink without significant renovations. Our sink range provides an extensive selection of sizes, ranging from 300mm to 900mm, for single or double bowl options - all including tap landings.
Image: Buildmat - Theo 1200x500 Double Bowl with Drain Board Sink with the Ashanti Brushed Brass Gold Gooseneck Mixer
In laundry rooms, it's worth noting that older style laundry troughs may still have the waste inlet located in the corner of the sink, which can detract from the overall aesthetic. In such cases, it is advisable to avoid these styles of sinks if you're aiming for a modern or contemporary look. By selecting a sink that has the waste inlet hidden away, you can achieve a more polished and sophisticated look for your laundry or sink area. It is recommended to have the washing machine waste pipes go through the cabinet and connect to the waste under the sink. This approach is more modern and discreet, as opposed to having an exposed pipe on top of your benchtop which can be unappealing. It is advisable to consult with both your plumber and cabinet maker to ensure that this is feasible and to discuss the specific requirements for your setup.
Tap Hole vs. No Tap Hole?
The main difference between a sink with a tap hole and a sink without a tap hole is the way in which the mixer is installed.
A sink with a tap hole has a pre-drilled hole in the surface of the sink that is designed to accommodate the mixer. This can make installation quicker and more straightforward, as there is no need to drill a hole in the benchtop. On the other hand, a sink without a tap hole requires the mixer to be installed directly into the benchtop. This may require more work and expertise from the plumber or installer, as they will need to ensure that the hole is drilled in the right location and at the right angle to avoid leaks or other issues.
If you are seeking a quick and simple installation process, a sink with a pre-drilled tap hole would be the best option. Alternatively, if you require a more customized installation or have specific location or angle requirements for the mixer, a sink without a tap hole would be the more suitable choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two options will depend on your individual circumstances and priorities.
When Should I Get a Tap Landing Sink?
Opting for a tap landing sink may be beneficial in certain scenarios. For instance, if you have a benchtop made of laminate or timber, which are both prone to water damage, having a tap landing can reduce the amount of water that comes in contact with the benchtop. This can prevent warping or damage caused by prolonged exposure to water.
Additionally, if you're seeking a quick and effortless installation process, a tap landing sink may be a favorable option. Since the tap landing is pre-built into the sink, there's no need to drill a hole in the benchtop for the mixer. This can simplify and hasten the installation process, making it a convenient choice if you're replacing an old sink and want a hassle-free installation.
If you're uncertain about whether a tap landing sink is the right option for your needs, seeking advice from a licensed plumber, your cabinet maker or an experienced expert is highly recommended. They can offer tailored guidance and insights based on your specific requirements, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your needs and expectations.
Image: Buildmat - River 600x500 Medium Single Bowl Tap Landing Sink with the Ashanti Brushed Nickel Gooseneck Mixer
Bench Cut Out and Installation for Tap Landing Sinks
The installation of a sink with a tap landing can be done by a licensed plumber with experience in plumbing and installation. It's important to make sure that the installer is experienced and knowledgeable about the specific type of sink and mixer you have chosen, as well as the type of benchtop you are using. A licensed plumber can ensure that the installation is done correctly, minimizing the risk of leaks or other issues that could cause damage to your home. They can also provide advice on the best placement for the mixer. If you choose to do the installation yourself, keep in mind that improper installation can lead to damages to your sink, benchtop, and could also cause leaks that could lead to water damage and other issues which may void your warranties for both the sink and benchtops.
The manner in which a cutout is made for a tap landing sink can vary depending on the preferences of the homeowner and the capabilities of the benchtop supplier. One method involves cutting a single large cutout that accommodates both the sink and the tap landing. This approach can be simpler and require only one cutout to be made in the benchtop. Alternatively, the benchtop supplier may opt to make separate cutouts for the sink bowl and the tap landing. This method can be beneficial if you have a particular design or layout in mind for your sink and mixer or prefer more flexibility in your mixer placement. This also means that the base of the mixer will have additional support from the benchtop as compared to sitting directly on top of your stainless steel sink.
Your benchtop supplier can be a valuable partner in this process, helping you to navigate the many options and choose the method that is right for you.
Image: Buildmat - Leo 510x500 Single Bowl Tap Landing Sink with the Ashanti Brushed Brass Gold Gooseneck Mixer
Pros and Cons of a Tap Landing Sink
Choosing the right sink for your kitchen or bathroom can be a challenging task, especially when it comes to deciding between a sink with a tap landing and a sink without one. To help you make the best decision for your needs, here are the pros and cons of each option, plus some tips!
First, let's start with the pros of a tap landing sink. A tap landing can provide a convenient and secure location for the mixer, reducing the risk of water damage to the benchtop. Installation is often simpler and faster with a tap landing sink since there's no need to drill a hole in the benchtop for the mixer. This can be a significant advantage if you're looking for a quick and easy installation process. However, there are some cons to consider as well. A tap landing can limit the flexibility of mixer placement since it's located in a specific position on the sink. The design of the sink may also be limited by the presence of the tap landing, which can be a consideration if you're looking for a specific style or design.
Image: Buildmat - Jayden 1200x500 Single Bowl Tap Landing
On the other hand, sinks without a tap landing offer more flexibility in mixer placement since there's no pre-drilled tap hole or landing on the sink. This can be beneficial if you have specific requirements for the location or angle of the mixer. A sink without a tap landing may also offer more design options and styles, giving you more choice in selecting a sink that suits your needs and preferences. The cons to that are installation can be more complex and time-consuming since a hole needs to be drilled in the benchtop for the mixer. There's also a higher risk of water damage to the benchtop since the tap hole may not be perfectly sealed or secured.
Consider the type of benchtop you have when choosing a sink. Think about your specific needs and preferences for mixer placement and installation. If you have a specific layout or design in mind, a sink without a tap landing may provide more flexibility.
When it comes to choosing between a tap landing sink and a sink without a tap landing, it's important to weigh the pros and cons carefully and consider your individual needs and preferences. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to make an informed decision based on your specific requirements. Take the time to consider your options carefully and consult with experts when necessary, you can choose a sink with confidence, knowing that it will meet your requirements and provide the functionality and style you're looking for.
Looking for the perfect sink and matching accessories?
Look no further than Buildmat! We offer a wide range of high-quality, handmade kitchen and laundry sinks to suit any style and budget. Our commitment to excellent customer service and quality products at competitive prices is unmatched in the industry. Whether you're a trade professional or a homeowner looking to build/renovate your kitchen, we have the perfect sink for you!
Our product range is available for browsing online or in our showroom, where you can see them in person and speak with our knowledgeable staff about your project.
Image: Buildmat - Theo 1200x500 Double Bowl Tap Landing with Right Drain Board Sink with the Ashanti Brushed Nickel Gooseneck Mixer
