How to install a sink

The installation of a sink is a task that does not require specific knowledge, whether it is to be installed on a new hob or if an old sink needs to be replaced

Before Installing a sink, you have to buy it, best sinks to buy. whether it is for a new countertop or a replacement for an old one, is a task that may seem difficult but does not require specific preparation. This article explains that installing a new sink is a simpler task than it sounds and details how to remove the old sink or prepare a new countertop and then install a new sink .

Installing a sink, simpler than it seems

Installing a sink is a task that, at first glance, may seem more difficult than it actually is. You do not have to be a "handyman" to carry it out: it is enough to have a certain fondness for crafts and DIY tasks, as well as time and desire to do it.

There are two types of sinks, depending on the way they are placed and attached to the countertop: under-deck and above-deck. This article will focus on the latter, since they are the most frequent and easier to install, although mention will also be made of those in the first group.

The first task to be done, in any case, is to cut off the water . To do this, it is best to close the stopcock in the kitchen or the whole house.

Remove the old sink

If it is a question of removing an old sink, the first step is to disconnect all the pipes and hoses that connect the sink and the tap with the water network. These connections are located inside the cabinet at the bottom that is just below the sink. When carrying out this task, it is advisable to be provided with a bucket to collect the water that may drip and fall when the connections are disconnected.

Once this is done, depending on the type of sink, it will have to be pushed up (if it is on the deck) or down (if it is on the under deck). Depending on the age of the installation, it will cost more or less to remove it from the countertop, since it will depend on the resistance that the sealing gasket still has (the material that has been used to glue the sink to the countertop, which may have been silicone or some other similar pasta).

Once the old sink has been removed, the entire countertop must be thoroughly cleaned before proceeding with the installation of the new one.

Prepare a new countertop for the sink installation

If the countertop is new, you will most likely have to drill to fit the sink. Often times, the packaging of the sink includes a template that needs to be cut out and placed on the countertop. In this way, the exact line on which to cut can be traced on the countertop with a pencil. So it is important to pay attention to the box so as not to dispose of it prematurely.

Knowing the exact location that the hole for the sink should have, we proceed to the drilling. The simplest way, if the countertop is made of wood, is to make a hole with a drill just on the edge of the layout and then make the cut with a point saw or needle, or a mechanical jigsaw, with the that work will be much faster and easier.

Once the cut is finished, the excess wood is removed (which should not be thrown away, since it can be used for multiple uses, such as photo frames, the base for a centerpiece, etc.) and it is checked that the sink fits in the hole without inconvenience. After this check, the entire surface of the countertop is removed and thoroughly cleaned.

Fitting the new sink

Before placing the new structure, it is advisable to install the tap . To do this, it is recommended to turn the sink upside down (i.e. turn it upside down) to work more comfortably: this will make it much easier to secure hoses, rods, clamping screws, plastic gaskets and plates.

With the tap installed and the countertop ready, it is time to place the sink. To do this, you have to put the fastening clips or hooks at the bottom (the way of placement depends on each sink model, so you have to read the accompanying instructions carefully) and apply the silicone or similar material in the edges as gaskets. Then, the sink is installed in the recess of the countertop.

The next step is to adjust with a screwdriver (normal or mechanical) the fastening clips or hooks to the countertop. In this way, the sink is already in place.

If the sink is under-counter, the installation is different: a pair of support bars must be placed in the cabinet below , which are embedded in the walls of the cabinet and support the weight of the metal structure.

Finally, the only thing left is to reconnect the sink and the tap to the corresponding pipes. When making these connections, it is advisable to tighten the nuts by hand and, at the end, make a slight tightening with the wrench. The stopcock is then opened and a leak is checked. If yes, the joints are tightened little by little with the wrench until they are securely closed. In this way, the new sink will be ready for use.

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