How to Install a New Kitchen Sink

kitchen sink

Installing a new kitchen sink is easier then you may think and updating your kitchen is always a good investment.  Picking the right sink for your needs and plumbing fixtures to help improve your day to day tasks will be our goal.

Picking The Right Sink For Your Kitchen

When it comes to kitchen sinks one size does not fit all. There are many styles sizes colors and materials to choose from. Here are a few examples of what is available:

• Stainless steel: Clean looking, industrial vibe. easy to clean and modern.
• Granite: very durable natural looking stone easy maintenance.
• Solid Surface: Modern colors durable scratch resistant and fits with most decor.
• Porcelain: Traditional, not as durable as granite or stainless, resists staining.

Take into consideration the style of your kitchen decor and cabinets as well as your appliances to help you decide on a kitchen sink. Your lifestyle and how your family uses the kitchen will also play a big part.

Measuring Your Current Sink And Space

A standard size sink will not always work in every situation. For this reason you will need to measure the sink you currently have length x width x depth. Also measure the depth of the countertop the sink is sitting in.

The easiest solution is to purchase a sink with the same shape and measurements as the old one.

Keep in mind when choosing your sink the access to spaces around and under the sink . Leave enough room for access especially if installing a garbage disposal.  Make sure the cabinets can handle the extra weight if you are thinking of a bigger sink.

Tools and Other Supplies Needed

• Adjustable wrench
• Pipe wrench
• Silicone sealant or plumbers putty
• Plumber’s tape
• Screwdriver
• Bucket or container for water drainage
• New supply lines and drain assembly
• Mounting clips

In addition you would want to decide on a new faucet, sink drain flange, garbage disposal and p-trap.

Installing Your New Sink

Disconnect the old sink plumbing, faucet water lines, garbage disposal and remove the old sink. Save the faucet if you are not buying a new one. Measure the countertop sink opening also note the depth of the old sink.

If your new sink is larger double check to make sure it will fit. If you need to cut the countertop now is the time to do that. Use the template that came with the new sink.

Safety Precautions

Safety comes first. Always wear gloves and eye protection when working with power tools and plumbing. Read all manuals thoroughly.

Clean The Countertop And Prep For Sink

Remove and old silicone from the countertop left from the old sink install. Clean the countertop of any grease, durt or debris using soap and water. Pay close attention to the area where the new sink will sit.

Seat The New Kitchen Sink

Using 100% silicone lay a 1/4 inch bead of silicone around the sinks edge. Seat the sink in the cut out in the countertop and align where you want it. Secure with mounting clips, tightening them evenly to keep the sink stable. Do not over tighten the clips. Install the new sink drain flange using plumbers putty. Attach the plumbing, garbage disposal, install the faucet and water lines. Test everything.

Finally caulk the outside of the sink to finish it off. Check for leaks under the sink before cleaning up.