How To Replace And Install A New Kitchen Sink In Your Home

If you've chosen to replace your current sink, a shiny new sink coupled with a new faucet and countertop is sure to jazz up your kitchen. While it may seem overwhelming – especially if you haven't installed a kitchen sink before, it's not as difficult as you think.

The trickiest part of installing a new sink and faucet is connecting the sink's drain. Otherwise, it's a reasonably straightforward process, and the installation steps are detailed below.

Measurements

When it comes to replacing your sink, measurements are critical. If you've already got an existing sink, you'd want to take the necessary measurements, so you know the exact positioning of the drains. If the new sink ends up having different dimensions from the old one, there's a high chance that you'll need to adjust your countertop. For that, you may want to hire a professional, especially if your countertop is made with materials such as natural stone.

Examine the hardware

Before removing your sink, you've got to figure out if you'll be replacing the fixtures. If you do need to, replacements should be done as you're installing the new sink.

You may also decide to add new fixtures such as a soap dispenser or a hot water sink. Ideally, you should purchase a sink that already has the number of holes you need for these additional fixtures, if not you’d need to drill some additional ones.

Removing your current sink

There are a few steps you'd need to follow when it comes to removing your current sink:

1. First, you're going to have to turn off the water and all water supplies that are connected to the sink. If you're unable to trace the valves, you can go ahead and just turn off the main water supply. Before doing any disconnections, take a picture of your valve and pipe configuration, so you've got a better idea of how to reconnect everything when you're installing your new sink.

2. Then, you'll turn on the faucet to relieve the water pressure and drain the waterline.

3. Once that's done, you'll use a wrench to disconnect the disposal and supply lines before turning off and unplugging the disposal circuit. Then, you'll disconnect the sink's P-trap, allow it to drain, and remove the disposal motor.

4. After everything has been removed, you'd need to loosen the sink by looking for the clips. Do so with a screwdriver before taking a razor to cut the caulking around the sink.

5. It's time to remove the old sink. All you've got to do is push the old sink until it separates from the countertop. If it doesn't move, use a razor to remove the sink's caulking. You can also use a putty knife to scrape off any remaining buildup of grime.

Installing your new sink

After your old sink has been removed, it's time to install the new sink. Just follow these simple instructions, and you'll be good to go:

1. First, you'd want to check the fit to make sure that it'll fit properly. If you run into any issues with fit, it's best to get some professional help.

2. Then, you'd attach all the clips and make sure that the clips face the sink bowl.

3. You'd then want to attach the strainer by using the plumber's putty. After you've rolled the putty around the strainer's edge, put the strainer in the sink drain and press it inwards.

4. Next, it's time to add the gaskets by placing the sink sideways and putting the rubber gaskets on the drain. You'd need to thread the flange and do this until all the drains are adequately covered. Any excess putty can then be removed.

5. Once those steps are done, it's time to install your sink. You'll screw the mounting bracket of the sink, apply some silicone caulk underneath, lower your sink onto the countertop and rotate the clips to secure it firmly.

6. After the sink is secured, you'll seal the outer part of the sink with silicone caulk and wipe off any access with a slightly damp rag.

7. Finally, you'll reattach all of the fixtures and screw the P-trap back in place before turning on all of the sink's electrical and water supplies.

Summing up

While installing a new sink isn't overly complicated or difficult, it's perfectly alright if you'd rather hire a professional to assist you with the job. If you have trouble reattaching your sink fixtures, you may also want to contact a professional as poor installation can result in leaking, malfunctions, and reduced efficiency.