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Installing a new sink doesn’t have to be difficult. Depending on the type of sink, it can actually be surprisingly easy.
Here’s what you need to know before installing a new sink.
And for more information on sink care, check out our other guides:
How to Remove Stains from a Farmhouse Sink
Why Install a New Sink?
People typically don’t think of replacing their sinks. Often, homeowners will think, “it is what it is” and let their sinks be.
It doesn’t help that sinks are connected to plumbing, and therefore an intimidating DIY prospect. Alternative options, like changing countertops and cabinets, tend to be more popular.
These options can certainly refresh your home, however, there’s also plenty of reasons to update your sink.
Replacing your sink can help add a pop of color, or an interesting visual to your kitchen or bathroom. You can also choose to upgrade your sink materials to something more durable.
Whatever your reason for wanting to, changing out your sink doesn’t have to be difficult. Depending on the type of sink, it can actually be surprisingly easy.
The key is to plan. You’ll need to be careful about the size of your sink, as well as the type of sink you’re purchasing. If you plan well, it will make your life much easier.
General Tips for Sink Installation
Installing a sink doesn’t have to be a huge project, especially if you’re careful to take the necessary steps before hand. Here are some basic things to keep in mind if you’re thinking about replacing your sink
Size
Make your life easier by getting a sink that will fit directly into the hole that’s already cut into your countertops. You can’t get a sink that’s smaller without having to replace all the counters. And if you get a sink that’s larger, you’ll have to hire someone to come in and cut the counters for you.
In this case, it pays to measure more than once. Measure the area where the sink will be placed, and measure the sink itself. By measuring your current sink before purchasing a new one, you can ensure the best possible fit.
If your sink has a complicated shape or size, (for example, it’s curved, or very deep) you may want to hire an installation service to help you measure it.
Plumbing
To save yourself some extra work and costs, try to get something that will fit with your existing plumbing.
With kitchen sinks, the plumbing usually consists of either one drain or two. In the case of one drain, you’ll have your garbage disposal and drain with one pipe. With two drains, you’ll have one drain for your garbage disposal and an additional drain without a disposal.
When you purchase your sink, try to get one that has holes that will match your plumbing. If you have a single drain, go for a single basin sink. For two drains, go with a double basin sink.
Drain placement is also important. You don’t want to purchase a sink that has a single drain to the side, when your plumbing is better suited to a drain in the center.
Again, this is an instance where it helps to model your purchase after your current sink. Pay attention to where the drains are placed in your sink, and try to purchase a similar option.
Although you can certainly change your plumbing to fit your new sink, it will cost more, and it can be tricky.
Type of Sink
There are three main ways to install a sink: top mount, undermount, and wall mount. You can switch from one type of sink to another, but it helps to stick to whatever style you currently use. The type of sink will also determine how easy it is to install.
If you want to know more about the different types of sinks, read our overview below.
How to Install a Farmhouse Kitchen Sink
Farmhouse sinks can be difficult because the front is usually visible. This is different from your typical top mount or undermount sink. There are also apron-front farmhouse sinks that require additional steps during installation.
Your best bet is to go with professional installation. However, you can certainly try it as a DIY project.
You can check out a great guide like this one, or watch the video below to see if you want to try it on your own:
The Different Types of Sinks
When installing a new sink, it’s important to remember that there are a few different types of sinks. Each of them will require a different method of installation, so you’ll need to plan accordingly.
Here’s an overview of each type, and what you can expect during installation:
Top mount/ Drop in
Top mount sinks, or drop-in sinks, are probably the easiest to install. Like the name suggests, you simply have to drop it in place to finish the installation. That’s because these sinks usually have a lip or sides that sit over the countertop.
These options are also known as self rimming sinks. That’s because they have that extra lip, which saves you the trouble edging your countertops around the basin.
Of course, there are many other steps you’ll need to take before you can drop your sink in place. If you’re interested in replacing a drop-in sink on your own, check out a step-by-step guide first.
Undermount
Undermount sinks are different from top mount sinks in that they sit just under the edge of the counter. As such, these tend to be paired with granite, quartz, butcher block, or similar countertops.
To install these, you need to start from underneath the countertops, hence the name. If you already have an undermount sink, installation is a simple matter of switching one sink for another. If you’re going from a drop-in to an undermount, you’ll need to install clips to hold the sink up.
It’s also possible to install your undermount sink as a top mount one, but that will require extra steps.
You can check out this great video to see how to change out your undermount sink.
Wall Mount
Wall mount sinks are different in that you attach them to the wall, rather than your counter. Some sinks have a very traditional or primitive look, that’s popular in country designs. However, there are plenty of modern options that are done in a floating style.
To install a wall mount sink, you’ll need to attach the high back of the sink to the wall. Make sure you’re attaching it to a stud, otherwise the weight of it will cause the drywall to break.
For more details on installation, check out this great video tutorial for a floating sink.
Replacing a Sink
There are a lot of factors that go into sink replacement, but it doesn’t have to be a difficult task. By planning ahead, you can save yourself a lot of hassle.
If you don’t want to do it yourself, it’s also easy to hire someone to do it for you. Most sink retailers offer installation as part of the sale, although it will usually cost extra.
Regardless, you don’t have to be afraid to update your kitchen sink. If you’re remodeling, or just want to change things around, know that replacing your sink is a great option.
