Bathroom Renovation — FAQ
Can I install a medicine cabinet myself or do I need a contractor?
Most surface-mount cabinets install easily with basic tools—level, drill, stud finder. Recessed installation requires cutting drywall and locating studs, making it intermediate-level DIY. If you encounter plumbing or electrical in the wall cavity, call a professional.
What's the difference between recessed and surface-mount medicine cabinets?
Surface mount attaches directly to wall surface, protruding 4-6 inches. Recessed mounts inside wall cavity for flush, custom look. Surface mount works in any wall; recessed requires adequate wall depth and no obstructions. Recessed saves space but demands precise cutting.
How do I know what size medicine cabinet to buy?
Measure available wall width and height. Cabinet should be narrower than vanity mirror or sink width. Standard sizes: 16×24 inches for powder rooms, 20×30 inches for full baths. Height should place mirror center at eye level—about 60-65 inches from floor.
Are metal or wood medicine cabinets better for bathrooms?
Powder-coated steel resists moisture and rust better than wood in humid bathrooms. Wood offers warmer aesthetics but requires quality sealing. Avoid particle board—it swells and fails quickly. For longevity in steamy bathrooms, steel with rust-resistant hardware wins.
Do I really need a medicine cabinet with LED lights?
LED lighting provides superior, shadow-free illumination for grooming tasks. If your bathroom lighting is poor or you apply makeup regularly, it's worth the upgrade. However, at under $75, prioritize build quality over features—a well-built basic cabinet outlasts a cheap LED model.
How much weight can a standard medicine cabinet hold?
Most budget cabinets support 15-20 pounds total. Distribute weight evenly across shelves. Heavy glass shelves handle more than plastic. Avoid overloading door shelves. For reference: 20 standard prescription bottles weigh about 5 pounds. Check manufacturer specs before loading with heavy glass bottles.
