As outlined in our Choosing a Kitchen Sink article, this somewhat forgotten fixture is perhaps the most valuable parts of your kitchen. To underestimate the value of a quality, high-functioning kitchen sink is to believe clean food, clean hands and overall sanitary health are just passing trends.
So, now that you’ve chosen to update your kitchen décor or simply replace an older sink, it’s time to put in that new kitchen sink. This article will detail the installation process, beginning with the materials you’ll need.
Materials needed
This is an easier job than most people think. In addition to the new kitchen sink and kitchen faucet, you’ll need the following:
- Pencil
- Bath towel
- Jigsaw blade
- Plumber’s putty or caulk
- Sink mounting clips
- Screwdriver
- Faucet lines
- P-trap line
Getting started
This article illustrates how to install a kitchen sink where there was no sink to begin with. If you’re just replacing your kitchen sink, jump to “Smooth landing.” And, as always, be sure to read the kitchen sink’s manufacturer-issued instructions thoroughly prior to starting this job. This article details how to install a Drop In Sink, the industry’s most popular kitchen sink.
Finding its way home
First, make sure the water supply is turned off. Then, determine where you’d like your kitchen sink to go, and place the sink upside down in that location. Make sure the basin is parallel to the edge of the counter and that it clears the face of the cabinet below, as well as anything above. Trace the outline of the sink with a pencil.
Drape a bath towel on the countertop and place the sink down on it to prevent marring your countertop. Make a second set of lines 3/8 of an inch inside the first set. This inside set of lines indicate where you’ll be making cut lines for the hole into which the sink will be placed, so it might be a good idea to double-check the accuracy of these measurements and that the sink’s edges will cover the hole around the entire basin.
After drilling a ¼-inch hole about one inch inside the cut line, enlarge that hole with a ½-inch bit. Using the jigsaw blade, carefully cut out the sink hole. Make sure to cut the corners and lines accurately.
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Place the sink into the hole to test the fit. You may want someone around to help you with this, since sinks can be VERY heavy. After you’ve tested the fit, remove the sink and make any necessary adjustments.
Faucet, meet sink
Install the kitchen faucet and drain into the sink. Read and follow the faucet’s manufacturer-issued instructions thoroughly. If needed, refer to our Installing a Kitchen Faucet article. If any mounting clips came with the faucet, install them but don’t tighten the clips just yet.
Making it stick
Apply a line of sealant (either plumber’s putty or caulk) around the entire under edge of the sink. Work quickly and carefully place the sink in the hole before the sealant dries. Press down firmly all around where you’ve applied the putty or caulk.
The little things
Fasten the sink into place by attaching the sink mounting clips. Tighten with a screwdriver, if necessary. While you’re beneath the sink, install the p-trap and hook up the faucet lines. Wipe any extra sealant from around the sink’s edges.
Almost there…
After you’ve connected the water supply and drain lines, you’re done. Just flush out the new pipes and you’re ready to use your newly installed kitchen sink after you’ve allowed the sealant to dry per any manufacturer's instructions.
Find parts for an existing Sink or Faucet at our Replacement Parts page!
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