We have a cool old soapstone utility sink in our laundry room that has developed a crack and needs to be replaced. We can't find/afford to replace it with the same thing, but I found a deep iron sink that would fit the space nicely and I'd like to build a stand like this for it:
This would suit the space much better than adding cabinets. It would be much narrower as we only have ~25" to work with, but the basic concept of dropping the sink into a workbench is what I'd really like to replicate. The sink is pretty heavy and I am not sure how to select a material for the countertop that can support the weight of an iron sink. I could get a steel sink but I like the iron sink.
Not sure what the sink weighs but I found it difficult to lift so I'd guess close to 100lbs. And we need to be able to fill it with water so there's another 80lbs or so. Assuming I accurately calculate the weight of the full sink, how do I know that the countertop material I'm using can support it?
Can I use plywood for this? What should I be looking for in selecting wood?
Best Answer
I think the general bench idea is fine, but depending on the actual weight and positioning of the sink, it might need a middle leg to support the weight. My plan would be to build wooden framing that would support the weight of the sink on its own so the choice of top material wouldn't matter as much.
In other words, build a top with a framed out rectangle of boards that would fit the sink and support the full weight. For the choice of top material, think about what is going to be durable in the possible wet conditions of a sink. Plywood would work fine, but will need to be sealed well against water. Wooden slats might work well also, but again it will be more of an aesthetic choice if the frame is made (or reinforced) to hold the sink on its own.
Just general guidelines - for a 6' long bench and a 60lb sink, I don't think you would need a middle leg if using 2x4's for the "frame" of the top and the sink on one side. If you needed longer and the sink is moved more to the middle, you might want a middle leg.