Whether you’re remodeling your entire kitchen or it’s only the sink that needs an update, a little know-how goes a long way. Here at Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling and Heating, we’re all about empowering homeowners with DIY knowledge. That’s why we’ve put together this guide on how to replace a kitchen sink, from removing old hardware to installing your new sink. Let’s dive in.
Looking for a professional plumber Cedar Hill TX? The team at Dial One Johnson specializes in kitchen plumbing and remodels, as well as emergency plumbing services. Give us a call at 972-388-3310 or contact us online today.
Kitchen Sink Removal: What You’ll Need
Before you can get started on your new installation, you’ll have to remove the old sink. This is really the first step toward a job well done, as careless practices here can lead to problems down the line. Before you begin, it’s a good idea to take a picture of your existing setup underneath the sink. Having this reference handy can be immensely helpful later on, both for your own sake or if you do end up enrolling the help of a plumber.
To successfully remove a kitchen sink, keep the following tools on hand:
- A screwdriver
- Old towels
- Adjustable wrenches
- A pair of pliers
- A small bucket
- A utility knife
How to Remove a Kitchen Sink
Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to get started. Let’s dive in.
Step 1: Turn off the Water Supply
Before you attempt any work, shut off the sink’s water supply lines. This can be done via the shutoff valves below the sink. If you are unable to find them, or if they simply won’t budge, you can always shut off your home’s main water line.
Step 2: Disconnect Water Supply Lines
Place a small bucket underneath your sink’s water supply lines to catch any potential drippings. Next, use your adjustable wrenches to disconnect the water supply lines to your faucets.
Step 3: Disconnect Your Sink’s Drain Pipe
Utilizing a pair of pliers, carefully disconnect the drain pipe, dishwasher drain lines and food disposal units (where applicable).
Step 4: Unscrew Hardware
Use a screwdriver to loosen and remove any hardware that’s keeping your sink in place. This might include screws, bolts and metal clips that you can access from below the sink.
Step 5: Cut Sealant and Remove the Sink
The last step is to carefully run your utility knife through the sealant between your sink and kitchen counter. Once everything has been disconnected and loosened, you should be able to remove your old sink by pushing up from below. Be sure to clean the area and remove any remaining putty or sealant before installing new hardware.
Fitting a New Kitchen Sink
If you are replacing your old sink with an updated version of the same dimensions, the switch should be easy and straightforward. If your new sink is of a different size, however, you’ll either need to cut your countertop to the appropriate dimensions, or you’ll need to install a new one that can fit your new kitchen sink.
How to Install a Kitchen Sink
Once you have your kitchen counter squared away, it’s time to install your new kitchen sink. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Pliers
- A screwdriver
- Adjustable wrenches
- Silicone Sealant
- Plumber’s putty
Step 1: Attach Clips
Kitchen sinks typically utilize clips on their undersides that fold out upon installation to help secure your sink in place. Attach these, but keep them folded in toward the sink bowl for now.
Step 2: Fit Your Faucets
Whether you are keeping your old faucets or installing new ones, now is the time to slot them into their corresponding holes in the sink. Be sure to pay attention to manufacturer guidelines on parts like spacers and O-rings.
Step 3: Fit the Strainer
Apply plumber’s putty to the underside of your new sink’s drain strainer, then screw it tightly into place, wiping away any excess putty with an old towel. Be sure to follow installation instructions on parts like rubber gaskets and flanges that may require installation on the underside of your drain strainer. If you need to reconnect a food disposer, be sure to install any necessary brackets or fixtures on the underside of your new sink.
Step 4: Add Sealant
With all the necessary components installed on the underside of your sink, run silicone sealant along the underside all around the edge of the sink.
Step 5: Lower Your Sink into Place
Carefully lower your sink into place through the hole in your countertop and check to ensure the sink sits squarely in place.
Step 6: Tighten Up Hardware
Working underneath the sink, flip those metal clips out and tighten them into place. It’s wise to periodically check and make sure the sink is still lined up properly above.
Step 7: Connect Water Supply Lines
Using your adjustable wrenches, reconnect water supply lines, power sources (for food disposal units) and drain lines. Next, turn the water supply back on and check for leaks. If you are satisfied with your work, run a final bead of sealant along the top edge of the sink to create a waterproof seal. Allow this to fully cure before using your sink for daily activities.
The Best Kitchen Sink Installation in Cedar Hill, TX
If you’re experiencing problems with a DIY kitchen sink installation, it’s best to call a professional plumber before things get worse. It’s essential to enlist professional plumbing services for complicated kitchen remodels that involve moving pipes or installing new plumbing. Our qualified plumbers are fully trained, licensed and insured to meet your needs and save you the headache of a DIY-gone-wrong.
The Dial One team provides expert service in plumbing, heating and air conditioner repair in Cedar Hill, Texas. If you’d like to find out more about our services, give us a call at 972-388-3310 or visit our website to schedule an appointment today.
Author Bio:
Sherrie Johnson-Hartsock
Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling & Heating is now owned and operated by Sherrie Johnson-Hartsock, with his grandson, Daniel Johnson, a third-generation plumber who is also the Service Manager.