Want the bathroom of your dreams, but on a budget? Do-it-yourself projects are a tried and true weapon in the homeowner’s arsenal, and we’re here to tackle one of the most intimidating DIY remodel projects out there: the bathroom sink. With winding pipes, complicated-looking fixtures, and heavy porcelain bowls they have stalled even the most courageous homeowner’s confidence. As with everything in life, there is an easy and a hard way to install a bathroom sink. We’re here to teach you how to install your own bathroom sink with no muss, fuss, or budget-breaking cost.
1. Get the Proper Tools
Most of the time, installing a bathroom sink does not require specialized tools. Many of the kits which are sold in home improvement stores come with clamps or hardware which is specific for the sink you choose. This takes some of the guesswork out of the sink installation, but there are a few universal tools that you need. These include silicone caulking (get plenty!), slip joint pliers, a basin wrench and plumbing sockets. Any additional tools, such as sink clips, are tailored for individual manufacturers and will be included with the sink.
2. Turn Off the Sink’s Water
As a rule of thumb, ensure the water is turned off before doing anything in the bathroom! You don’t want water pouring out of the pipes once you remove the old fixture. To turn off the water, check under your sink. Most modern sinks have a hot and cold supply line attached to the plumbing. Twist these valves until they’re sealed off and test the sink by turning all taps on high. If nothing (or a few drips, which are just the stored water from the upper portion of the sink) comes out, you’re all set to install the new sink! If water continues pouring or you cannot find the supply lines, head outside and turn off the water to the building from the main supply valve.
3. Remove the Old Bathroom Sink
Demolition is always the most fun part of a DIY project! Something is satisfying about undoing sealant on a former fixture. Don’t break out the sledgehammer just yet – removing the old bathroom sink must be done carefully. Unscrew the large nut on the underside of the sink which holds it to the supply lines and gently undo the caulk around the edge of the bowl. Once it’s fully separated, lift out the old sink.
4. Secure and Caulk the New Sink
Before lowering the new sink into the cabinetry, measure it! If you’re confident it will fit, place a thick line of silicone caulk around the edges where the sink meets the countertop. From there, lower your new sink into the counter’s hole. The sink should come with clips or screws which are used to hold it in place as the caulk dries. Once it’s been lowered to the spot you’d like, use the manufacturer’s screws to hold it in place while the caulk dries.
5. Install the Drain Kit
Underneath the sink’s bowl is the most important part: the plumbing! A drain piece will drop down from the drain of the sink and connect with the water supply lines. From there, a rubber gasket will link the drain piece to the waterline, allowing waste to flow freely away from your bathroom. Heads up: you’ll want to silicone this or use plumber’s tape once it’s connected to make sure there are no leaks.
6. Connect Water Supply Lines
Once you have all the plumbing connected and the bowl in its new home, you can reconnect the water supply lines. Whether it came from under the cabinetry inside the home or outside, turn the water back on. Test the sink and check both up top and down below to make sure there are no leaks. If a strong spray erupts from anywhere, turn the faucet back off and make sure all is sealed as tight as possible. Installing a bathroom sink might include some trial and error, so don’t be discouraged if you see a spot that needs to be sealed again after you’ve gotten everything installed.
7. Caulk Again!
Any areas which have a chance of leaking (such as the edge of the bowl) are a hazard to homeowners. You don’t want to run the risk of water damage from an unsealed edge! Once your new sink is in place and the water has been turned back on, place a thick layer of silicone caulk around any spots which are vulnerable to water. This will ensure you don’t struggle with water damage down the line. For any help with your project and for all your plumbing needs contact Sin City Plumbing.
