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If you’re thinking about remodeling your kitchen or bathroom, there are many tasks that you can DIY to save a little time and money. Follow this guide from the plumbing experts at Roto-Rooter to install a new sink in under two hours.

First Steps First

To ensure a successful sink installation, there are a few preliminary steps to take.

First Steps First

To ensure a successful sink installation, there are a few preliminary steps to take.

• Measure twice (or thrice!). Take the measurements with you when you go sink shopping to ensure that the new kitchen sink you purchase will fit into the existing countertop hole. And that a new vanity is going to fit in the space available. Measure all four sides of your current kitchen sink from underneath the counter. Take note of whether the corners are round or square. If you’ve chosen a sink that is deeper than your existing sink, don’t forget to measure the sink tailpiece. A sink that is too deep will require that you lower the drain pipe that goes into the wall, a much bigger project that will probably require professional assistance.
• Match the sink to the accessories you need. If you are keeping your current faucet, ensure that the new sink you buy has the correct number of holes. If you plan on replacing the faucet as well, it’s wise to pick out the faucet first and then choose sinks that will match the number of holes your new faucet requires.
• Look for water damage. Leaks around a countertop can cause the particle board underneath laminate countertops to swell. If your countertop is water damaged, it will need to be replaced, even if the damage isn’t visible on top.

Remove the old sink

To save yourself from frustration later, begin by snapping a quick photo with your cell phone of the existing setup. You may need it for reference. Then shut off the hot and cold water supply and turn on the faucet to drain any water left in the lines. If applicable, shut off power to the garbage disposal.

Then shut off the hot and cold water supply and turn on the faucet to drain any water left in the lines. If applicable, shut off power to the garbage disposal.

Disconnect the old sink and faucet from all plumbing and drain connections, then remove the garbage disposal. Have a bucket and towels handy to catch any water that is still in the lines.

Remove the sink clamps. You may need to use a putty knife or utility knife to remove old caulk from the sink edges. Once the sink is free, enlist a helper to assist you in removing it from the hole. If the sink has a lip that rests on the countertop, push upwards on the sink from underneath, allowing your helper to grasp it from above and help you pull it out of the hole. Some kitchen sinks mount beneath countertops, particularly granite or quartz countertops. Sinks of that type will need to be secured before you begin removing the sink clamps so that the sink bowl doesn’t fall onto you while you’re beneath the sink working.

Preventive maintenance

Before installing a new sink, remove all traces of old caulk from around the countetop. Most of it can probably be scraped away with a putty knife, but you can find caulk remover at your local hardware store if you have trouble.

Take this opportunity to replace worn out or leaky shutoff valves and old supply lines.

Checkpoint! Before proceeding, drop the sink in the countertop to test fit. The sink should be snug, with accessory holes that match the existing holes in your countertop. Take a look underneath to ensure the basin is the proper depth and that everything will fit the way you need it to.

Once you’ve established fit, clean the sink thoroughly.

Faucet First

Once you’ve established fit, clean the sink thoroughly. Faucet First

Every faucet manufacturer will have specific instructions to walk you through the installation of that particular model. Always defer to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Install the faucet in the sink before installing the sink in the countertop. It’s much easier to reach the necessary connections.

Wrap-Up

To ensure a proper seal around your new sink, use 100% silicone caulk that requires solvent removal rather than plumber’s putty. Apply a bead of caulk around the entire sink opening, then drop the new sink in. Wipe away any excess caulk. Then, install the new sink clips

Reconnect water supply lines and drain tubes. Note that if they’re old, it’s a good idea to replace them with new flexible braided stainless steel hoses with compression fittings. If you also need to reinstall a garbage disposal, refer to Roto-Rooter’s instructions here. Run water and examine your new sink setup for any leaks.

If you run into any difficulties along the way, remember that homeowners everywhere have relied on Roto-Rooter for honest, professional advice on all types of kitchen, bathroom and other residential plumbing services. Give us a call.