I’m putting a pwder room (toilet and sink only) in a long narrow space. 40″ wide so I know I have the necessary clearance for the toilet. My question is if there a code requirement for how much clearance I need to have between the sink and the opposite wall? you have to pass the sink to reach the toilet.
I recognize that that there is no national code, but fit there’s such a thing as ” typical” or what you’re comfortable with for clearance I’d appreciate it
Carlos
Listeners write in about ventilation and radon control and ask questions about tightening basement garages, ventilation solutions, and safer paint stripper.
"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.
Dig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.
Start Free Trial NowGet instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.
Start Free Trial Now
Replies
If you have to pass an inspection, you should ask your local AHJ what they will accept.
Otherwise, a standard adult walker is about 25 inches wide. It would be nice if the walker could make it through (and with sufficient turning room past the sink and before the stool).
lav. clearance
I don't think I have ever seen a code minimun clearance in front of the sink other than for handicap.
I have an old fashion lav in my powder room / toilet that is only 14' deep. (from wall to face. Wall mount.
carlos
I don't want to be flippant........
But 40 inches isn't much room to drop your pants and sit down on a toilet if it's facing that wall 40" away.
If it's in the end of the room (back to end) the side to side clearance is ok,
or consider a wall hung or corner toilet.
Many usable sized wall hung or pedestal sinks come 19" from the wall, that leaves 21" to stand and wash your hands. Not great, but not bad. Spitting toothpaste in or washing your face, not as comfortable. Sinks smaller that 19 deep can quickly become airplane or travel trailer style.
At 32" off the floor, you should be able to pass unless you have a wide rear end.
In spaces made small, it's a good idea to make sure your sink is FIRMLY fastened to the wall (assuming pedestal or wall hung). Hell, it's good idea in any case. Old folks and those with too much to drink use anything close to steady themselves.
Best of luck.
In a small space like that it would be wise to add some grab bars. I know I have more trouble getting up and down in a small space.
A few inches can be gained by using a compact toilet, though this needs to be planned in advance since the flange offset is generally 10" vs 12".
If the link works, it will take you to a page from the 2009 IRC
http://publicecodes.cyberregs.com/icod/irc/2009/icod_irc_2009_3_sec007.htm?bu2=undefined
As Calvin points out, the Code minimums are not necessarily comfortable. The National Kitchen and Bath Association has suggested design minimums that you might want to look at.
Thank you, that link was helpful. 21" seems to be the minimu recommended space in front of the sink, so with 40" to work with it looks like I room to work with. Plant to try and work with a sink that leaves at least 24-26"
And for the other poster, the toilet will have lots of space in front of it, the back of the toilet will be on the 40" wall at the far end of the space
Cool
Plenty of comfort there.
Enjoy.