What Is The Standard Drain Size for Bathroom and Kitchen Sink

When you are planning to replace or purchase a drain for your sink, there are many factors to consider, and one of the factors that should not be overlooked is the size of the drain. A drain that is too large or too small will make it impossible to install. So is there a standard drain size for bathroom or kitchen sink? In this post, we will discuss the standard drain size from various aspects.

Are sink drain sizes standard?

Although there are some common sizes, there is no standard sink drain size. The most common size for bathroom sink drain holes is 1 ¼ inches, but 1 ½ inches is also an option for many sink drain sizes. Generally speaking, these two are the most common sizes.

However, you may also encounter sinks with 1 ⅝ inch drain holes. Because of the differences, you’ll want to make sure you buy the correct size drain assembly. It is strongly recommended to carefully check the dimensions before purchasing a drainage assembly.

What is the standard installation height for a bathroom sink drain?

You will find that the standard height for installing a sink drain line is 22-24 inches from the bathroom floor. Once again, you want to check your local government’s housing codes for more specific instructions and adhere to these codes as closely as possible.

However, keep in mind that the installation height may differ based on your chosen vanity’s construction and height, and you must carefully mark out where the drains and water lines will be placed.

How do I know what size drain pipe I need?

In most cases, newly purchased sinks have instructions indicating the correct drain size. Therefore, you can refer to the owner’s manual or instructions for the correct drain hose size. But if you don’t have a user manual, that’s fine too.

You’ll need to measure the sink’s drain directly in the center of the drain to measure the diameter of the circle. After taking your measurements, you can determine the size of the drain that will fit your sink.

It’s important to understand that your sink drain needs to be the same size or smaller than the drain hole. So if your sink has a 1 ¼ inch drain hole, it needs to have a 1 ¼ inch or smaller drain hole. Alternatively, if the sink has a 1 ½ inch drain hole, it is compatible with a 1 ½ inch or 1 ¼ inch drain.

The reasoning behind the “same size or smaller” rule is due to the measurement of the drain. This measurement is for the part of the drain that fits in the sink hole. Each drain comes with a drain flange that sits on the sink and covers the hole. This part is much larger than the threaded part, so a slightly smaller drain will do.

Apart from the drain itself, the rest of the plumbing and plumbing needs to fit the sink drain. You need the same size pipe as the drain hole. For 1 ½ inch drain holes, use 1 ½ inch pipe. You can find bathroom plumbing in different sizes at your local hardware store and home improvement store.

What type of plumbing is best for sink drain?

Copper and PEX are the best materials for pipes. Copper has long been considered an ultra-durable plumbing material. Most manufacturers offer a 50-year warranty on this pipe. It is leak-proof and can withstand extreme heat and cold. Also, copper is good for your family. This metal naturally reduces bacterial growth and does not contaminate drinking water with toxins and this plumbing does carry a hefty price tag. Definitely worth the money as an investment in your home.

Another good option is the PEX pipeline. If you’re on a budget when it comes to renovating your home, this may be your best bet. It resists high and low temperatures well and prevents the build-up of limescale and chlorine. It’s also easy to install and costs far less than copper. Still, you get what you pay for. The life expectancy of this material is half that of copper pipes.

Conclusion on standard drain size

Bathroom remodeling can be a bit of a messy process. Making sure you’re buying the right plumbing fixtures and plumbing is critical to creating a functional, aesthetically pleasing bathroom. This includes choosing the right size drain to fit your sink drain and wall line. The standard diameter for this fixture is 1.25 inches, but keep in mind that it may be up to 1.65 inches in diameter and you must consult your city’s housing codes beforehand.