Proflo Pf1713uwh

From Renovation Nightmare to Design Dream: My Journey with the Perfect Undermount Sink

When I first embarked on my bathroom renovation journey, I never imagined I’d become so passionate about a sink. But after weeks of research, countless store visits, and one particularly disastrous installation attempt with a different brand, I’ve become something of an expert on the Proflo PF1713UWH undermount bathroom sink. This unassuming porcelain fixture has not only saved my renovation but has completely transformed my bathroom’s aesthetic. Finding the perfect undermount sink can be the difference between a good bathroom renovation and a great one.

Let me take you through everything I’ve learned about this game-changing sink—from specifications and installation to maintenance and compatibility. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast like me or working with a contractor, this comprehensive guide will help you determine if the Proflo PF1713UWH is the right choice for your bathroom transformation.

What Exactly Is the Proflo PF1713UWH?

Before diving into the nitty-gritty details, let’s establish what we’re talking about. The Proflo PF1713UWH is an undermount bathroom sink designed to be installed beneath your countertop, creating a seamless transition from counter to sink. This particular model has become increasingly popular in modern bathroom designs, and for good reason.

I first encountered this sink at my neighbor’s newly renovated bathroom. The clean lines and elegant simplicity immediately caught my eye. When she mentioned it was also remarkably affordable compared to other options she’d considered, I was sold on learning more.

The PF1713UWH is part of Proflo’s respected bathroom fixture line. While Proflo might not have the same name recognition as some luxury brands, they’ve carved out a solid reputation for balancing quality, aesthetics, and affordability. After experiencing first-hand how this sink has transformed my bathroom, I can confidently say it delivers exceptional value.

Detailed Specifications: What You Need to Know

Let’s get into the technical details that make this sink stand out:

Dimensions and Size Considerations

The Proflo PF1713UWH features outer dimensions of 19.5″ x 16.5″, with an interior bowl measuring 17″ x 13″. The sink has a depth of 7.75″, which I’ve found provides ample space for handwashing without causing excessive splashing.

What I particularly appreciate about these dimensions is the versatility they offer. The sink is large enough to be functional but not so massive that it dominates a smaller bathroom space. When I was renovating my guest bathroom (a modest 8′ x 6′ space), I worried any undermount sink would overwhelm the limited counter area. The PF1713UWH fit perfectly, maintaining a balance between function and proportion.

Material Composition and Durability

The sink is crafted from vitreous china, which essentially means high-quality ceramic that’s been glazed and fired at extremely high temperatures. This process creates a non-porous, glass-like surface that resists stains, scratches, and bacteria growth.

I’ve had mine installed for over a year now, and despite daily use (and my husband’s tendency to drop his electric razor), the surface remains pristine. The glossy white finish has maintained its brightness without developing the yellowing that affected our previous sink.

Weight and Installation Considerations

At approximately 16 pounds, the PF1713UWH strikes a good balance—substantial enough to feel quality-built but not so heavy that installation becomes a two-person Olympic event. I managed the sink positioning myself while my brother-in-law secured the mounting hardware.

Drainage and Overflow Features

One feature I initially overlooked but have come to appreciate is the integrated overflow drain. This small but important detail prevents water from spilling onto your floor should you accidentally leave the water running. As someone who has occasionally forgotten to turn off the faucet while taking a phone call, this feature has saved me from potential water damage more than once.

The sink comes with a standard 1.75″ drain opening, compatible with most modern bathroom drain assemblies. I opted for a brushed nickel drain to match my faucet, but chrome, bronze, and matte black options would work equally well with this versatile sink.

Installation: Easier Than You Might Think

I’ll be honest—when I first considered an undermount sink, I was intimidated by the installation process. After watching countless YouTube videos and consulting with a plumber friend, I realized it was manageable as a DIY project with the right preparation.

Pre-Installation Preparations

Before the sink arrived, I ensured my vanity cabinet could support an undermount installation. The Proflo PF1713UWH requires proper structural support, so I reinforced the cabinet with additional bracing. This extra step took about an hour but provided peace of mind knowing the sink would remain securely mounted for years to come.

I also measured (and re-measured) my countertop opening to ensure proper fit. The template provided with the sink was helpful, but I still recommend careful verification of all dimensions before making any cuts in your expensive countertop material.

The Installation Process

The actual installation involved several key steps:

1. Applying a bead of silicone adhesive around the sink rim
2. Carefully positioning the sink against the underside of the countertop
3. Installing the mounting clips that secure the sink to the countertop
4. Allowing the adhesive to set before connecting the plumbing

The sink comes with basic installation hardware, but I purchased additional mounting clips for extra security. The entire process took about three hours, including frequent breaks to double-check positioning and alignment.

One tip I wish I’d known earlier: use painter’s tape to temporarily hold the sink in place while you adjust the mounting clips. This simple trick prevented the sink from shifting during installation and ensured perfect alignment with the countertop opening.

Potential Challenges and Solutions

The trickiest part of the installation was connecting the drain assembly. The limited space beneath the sink made maneuvering tools challenging. I found that using a basin wrench specifically designed for tight spaces made this process significantly easier.

Another challenge was ensuring the sink was perfectly centered in the countertop opening. Taking extra time during this stage paid dividends in the final appearance. I used small wooden shims to adjust the positioning before final tightening of the mounting clips.

Compatibility with Countertop Materials

One of the questions I researched extensively was how well the Proflo PF1713UWH would pair with different countertop materials. I ultimately chose a quartz countertop for my bathroom, but I explored several options during the planning phase.

Granite and Quartz Compatibility

The Proflo PF1713UWH works exceptionally well with both granite and quartz countertops. These solid surface materials provide the necessary structural support for an undermount installation while creating a stunning visual contrast with the white porcelain sink.

My quartz countertop in “Calacatta Gold” creates a beautiful transition to the crisp white of the sink. The undermount design allows the countertop material to take center stage while creating a seamless look that’s both modern and timeless.

Other Compatible Materials

Beyond granite and quartz, this sink pairs well with:

• Marble (though requires careful sealing around the sink cutout)
• Solid surface materials like Corian
• Concrete countertops (with proper reinforcement)
• High-quality laminate with marine-grade substrate (using a special mounting system)

I wouldn’t recommend pairing this undermount sink with standard laminate countertops or tile, as these materials don’t typically provide adequate support for undermount installations.

Faucet Compatibility and Selection

The Proflo PF1713UWH’s simple design makes it compatible with virtually any bathroom faucet style, from traditional to ultra-modern. Since the sink doesn’t include pre-drilled faucet holes (being an undermount design), you’ll need to ensure your countertop is drilled appropriately for your chosen faucet.

I initially selected a widespread faucet with separate hot and cold handles but later switched to a single-handle design to maximize counter space in my smaller bathroom. The sink’s versatile design accommodated both styles beautifully.

When selecting a faucet, consider the depth of the sink basin. The 7.75″ depth of the PF1713UWH works well with most standard-height faucets, but extremely tall vessel-style faucets might cause excessive splashing. I found a medium-height faucet with a gently arched spout provided the perfect balance of function and style.

Cleaning and Maintenance: Surprisingly Simple

After living with the Proflo PF1713UWH for over a year, I can report that maintenance is refreshingly straightforward. The vitreous china surface resists staining and makes daily cleaning a breeze.

Daily Cleaning Routine

For everyday maintenance, I simply wipe the sink with a soft cloth and mild bathroom cleaner. The non-porous surface doesn’t hold onto toothpaste residue or makeup the way our previous sink did. A quick rinse after use prevents water spots from forming on the glossy surface.

Dealing with Hard Water and Stains

Living in an area with hard water, I was concerned about mineral deposits building up over time. I’ve found that a weekly wipe-down with a vinegar solution keeps calcium deposits at bay. For stubborn stains (which have been rare), a paste of baking soda and water works wonders without scratching the surface.

Long-Term Durability

After a year of daily use, the sink shows virtually no signs of wear. The drain area, which typically shows the first signs of degradation in bathroom sinks, remains pristine. The vitreous china material has maintained its bright white finish without developing the micro-scratches that plagued our previous acrylic sink.

Cost Considerations and Value Assessment

When I began researching undermount bathroom sinks, I expected to pay significantly more for quality. The Proflo PF1713UWH surprised me with its reasonable price point—typically ranging from $120 to $170 depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions.

Price Comparison with Competitors

Comparable undermount sinks from premium brands often cost $250 to $400 or more. While these higher-priced options might offer slightly thicker materials or designer brand names, I’ve found the actual performance and appearance differences to be minimal in daily use.

Value for Money Assessment

Considering the durability, aesthetic appeal, and ease of maintenance, I consider the Proflo PF1713UWH an exceptional value. The money saved on the sink allowed me to upgrade other bathroom elements, like the faucet and lighting fixtures, creating a more luxurious overall result within my budget.

Where to Purchase

I purchased my sink from a local plumbing supply store, which offered competitive pricing and the ability to inspect the sink before buying. The Proflo PF1713UWH is also available through several major retailers:

• Ferguson Plumbing Supply (where Proflo is a house brand)
• Home Depot (available for special order in many locations)
• Amazon and other online retailers
• Local kitchen and bath showrooms

I recommend checking with local suppliers first, as they often match online pricing while providing valuable installation advice and easier returns if needed.

Warranty and Customer Support

The Proflo PF1713UWH comes with a one-year limited warranty covering manufacturing defects. While this warranty period is shorter than some premium brands (which might offer 5-10 year warranties), I’ve found the sink’s quality construction minimizes concerns about long-term issues.

When I had questions about installation, Ferguson’s customer service team was responsive and knowledgeable. They provided detailed answers about mounting options for my specific countertop material and recommended compatible drain assemblies.

How the Proflo PF1713UWH Compares to Alternatives

Before settling on the Proflo PF1713UWH, I researched several alternative undermount bathroom sinks. Here’s how it stacked up against the competition:

Comparison with Budget Options

Compared to entry-level undermount sinks (typically priced under $100), the Proflo offers noticeably better material quality and more precise dimensions. The cheaper options I examined had thinner walls, inconsistent glazing, and often lacked overflow drains.

Comparison with Premium Brands

When compared to high-end brands like Kohler and American Standard (typically $250+), the differences were subtler. The premium options sometimes offered slightly thicker materials or more specialized glazing technologies. However, in daily use, these differences proved minimal relative to the price difference.

The Proflo PF1713UWH hits a sweet spot—significantly better than budget options without the premium price tag of designer brands. For most bathroom renovations, it represents the optimal balance of quality and value.

Real-World Performance: My Experience After One Year

After living with the Proflo PF1713UWH for over a year, I’ve developed a comprehensive understanding of its real-world performance. Here are the highlights of my experience:

Aesthetic Longevity

The clean, white finish has maintained its brightness without developing the yellowing or dullness that affected previous sinks. The simple oval design has proven timeless, complementing our bathroom’s transitional style beautifully. When we updated our bathroom accessories recently, the sink continued to work perfectly with the new color scheme.

Functional Performance

The 7.75″ depth has proven ideal—deep enough to prevent splashing while washing hands or face, but not so deep that it makes cleaning difficult. The slight gradient toward the drain ensures water doesn’t pool in the sink, preventing the soap scum buildup that plagued our previous flat-bottomed sink.

Wear and Tear Assessment

Despite daily use by our family of four (including two teenagers not exactly known for gentle treatment of bathroom fixtures), the sink shows minimal signs of wear. The area around the drain, typically the first to show damage, remains pristine. The undermount design eliminates the edge seam where grime typically collects, making long-term maintenance significantly easier.

Is the Proflo PF1713UWH Right for Your Bathroom?

Based on my experience, the Proflo PF1713UWH is ideal for:

Perfect for Small to Medium Bathrooms

With its 19.5″ x 16.5″ outer dimensions, this sink works beautifully in small to medium bathrooms where space optimization is crucial. The oval shape provides ample washing space while maximizing the available counter area—a significant advantage over larger rectangular sinks.

In my guest bathroom renovation, this sink allowed for approximately 8″ of usable counter space on each side—enough for essential toiletries without overwhelming the modest vanity.

Ideal for Modern and Transitional Design Styles

The clean lines and simple oval shape complement contemporary, modern, and transitional bathroom designs. While it might not be ornate enough for highly traditional spaces, it works surprisingly well in updated traditional bathrooms when paired with classic faucets and accessories.

Suitable for Both Residential and Light Commercial Use

While primarily designed for residential bathrooms, the durability and ease of cleaning make this sink suitable for light commercial applications like office bathrooms, small restaurants, or boutique hotel rooms. The vitreous china construction stands up to more frequent use than typical residential sinks.

However, for high-traffic commercial settings like public restrooms, a more heavy-duty commercial-grade sink would be more appropriate.

Installation Tips from My Experience

Having gone through the installation process, I’d like to share some practical tips that might save you time and frustration:

Measure Twice, Cut Once

Before finalizing your countertop cutout, verify all dimensions carefully. The template provided with the sink is generally accurate, but I still recommend measuring the actual sink and allowing appropriate clearance (typically 1/8″ all around).

Consider Your Drain Assembly Early

Select your drain assembly before installation begins. I initially purchased a pop-up drain that proved incompatible with the sink’s overflow system, necessitating a last-minute replacement. A grid drain or simple flip stopper works best with this sink’s configuration.

Plan for Adequate Support

The 16-pound weight of the sink plus water requires proper structural support. I added additional bracing to my vanity cabinet—a simple precaution that ensures long-term stability. Consulting with a carpenter or experienced DIYer for this step is worthwhile if you’re unsure about the structural requirements.

Allow Extra Time for Silicone Curing

After applying silicone adhesive and securing the mounting clips, I allowed 24 hours for complete curing before connecting the plumbing. This patience paid dividends in ensuring a watertight seal that has remained perfect for over a year.

Common Questions Answered

Throughout my renovation journey and subsequent conversations with friends undertaking their own bathroom projects, several questions about the Proflo PF1713UWH consistently arise:

Does it come in colors other than white?

The PF1713UWH is available exclusively in white (the “WH” in the model number indicates the white finish). This limitation might be a drawback if you’re seeking colored fixtures, but the classic white works with virtually any design scheme and tends to maintain its appeal through changing design trends.

Is it suitable for vessel faucets?

As an undermount sink, the PF1713UWH requires faucets mounted through the countertop rather than the sink itself. While technically compatible with tall vessel-style faucets, I found that medium-height faucets provide better functional performance with less splashing.

How does it handle makeup and colored products?

The glazed vitreous china surface resists staining remarkably well. My teenage daughter’s colorful bath bombs and facial products haven’t left any permanent marks. Quick rinsing after use prevents any potential staining from products like hair dye or strongly colored cosmetics.

Can it be installed with laminate countertops?

While technically possible using special undermount clips designed for laminate, I wouldn’t recommend this combination. The exposed edge of laminate is vulnerable to water damage, and the substrate typically lacks the structural integrity for proper undermount support. If you’re committed to laminate countertops, consider a drop-in sink instead.

Final Thoughts: Why the Proflo PF1713UWH Deserves Consideration

After living with this sink for over a year and comparing notes with friends who chose different options, I’m increasingly convinced that the Proflo PF1713UWH represents an exceptional value in bathroom fixtures. It combines the aesthetics and performance of premium sinks with a mid-range price point that respects your renovation budget.

What initially attracted me to this sink—its clean lines and simple elegance—has proven to be just the beginning of its appeal. The practical benefits of easy cleaning, stain resistance, and durability have made it one of the most satisfying elements of our bathroom renovation.

If you’re undertaking a bathroom remodel and feeling overwhelmed by the myriad of sink options, the Proflo PF1713UWH deserves serious consideration. Its balance of form, function, and value makes it suitable for a wide range of bathroom styles and sizes.

As my renovation journey has taught me, sometimes the most unassuming elements—like a well-designed sink—can make the most significant difference in both the aesthetic appeal and daily functionality of your bathroom. Finding the perfect undermount sink can be the difference between a good bathroom renovation and a great one, and for my money, the Proflo PF1713UWH is as close to perfect as I’ve found.

Whether you’re working with a designer, contractor, or tackling a DIY renovation, this sink offers the rare combination of quality, versatility, and value that makes it worthy of your consideration. My bathroom has been transformed by this simple yet significant choice—yours could be too.