I’m in the process of a kitchen remodel (down to the framing) and have the opportunity to move the kitchen sink under an existing window. The sink used to be in a corner and staring at a wall while standing at the sink just didn’t cut it. Can anyone help me with the standards that are applied in this scenario?
What is the minimum measurement from the countertop to the bottom of the window R.O.?
The window is an Andersen DH. The countertop has not been made yet. I am thinking of a standard height backsplash on the countertop and don’t want to screw myself when it comes time to finish the window and install the countertop.
Any ideas, comments or pitfalls about this planning step is greatly appreciated.
Replies
Not really. Standard around here is 36" countertop height, with the window sill being 6-10" higher, for backsplash.
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The pitfalls are entirely visual. I have seen windows mounted so low that the aluminum frame formed the backsplash. What looks like bad is when the trim or tile has to be cut and is crowded together. It is also a good idea to think about what you keep near the sink. If you are like me and have the detergent and various scrubbers, you might want a higher sill to accommodate them. One other thought - If the window is very wide you should be sure you have room for the required electrical outlets for the counter.
I have an old house, so take what I did into account.
I actually had the countertop, granite, 3" higher than the sill. Then I had the granite company make a 4" backsplash. The net result is the sill of the window is 7" lower than the top of the backsplash. It is working out well for me>G<(wife loves it)
So your kitchen window is in a little well? Just trying to picture.John
Yep. I was told by the company that did our countertop that this is not abnormal anymore.
Would never have done this, but the DW wanted the sink in front of a different set of windows.
My home is 80+ years old as well. What you describe with the window sill being lower than the counter top surface is what was original design was. Roughly 15 years ago I replaced that old window with a smaller Andersen Dbl hung and made it a shorter replacement because I wasn't thrilled with the appearance of the lower window sash partially beneath the backsplash. Believe it or not, I've got to remove this window and lower the rough opening to conform with the rest of the windows in the house so the siding job doesn't look like a Rube Goldberg with one window top installed high and the rest of the windows installed 3-5 inches lower.So now if I lower the window, I am concerned with the clearance between the backsplash and the window sill. I may have to install a shorter window to accomplish this goal. I'm looking for some sort of standard if there is one out there. Thanks to all who posted replies as each one fills in the blanks a little more. I'm still listening
yeah, i see that in a lot of old houses.the 4" backsplash formed into the back of the formica countertop runs right across the window, forming a barrier, and leaving a 4"-6" well.great place for little plants, but it doesn't get cleaned much. lol.