Changing your kitchen sink can be a daunting process, especially if you’ve never done it before. While you can always have a professional install it for you, the choice to replace your kitchen sink yourself can be a cheaper route for those looking to save some cash.
There are multiple reasons why you might need to replace your kitchen sink, the most common being that your current sink is damaged, or you’re in the middle of a kitchen remodel. Sometimes you’re not even replacing your current kitchen sink, but instead installing one for the first time.
No matter what your reasoning is behind it. You want to make sure you replace it correctly. If you remove the old sink incorrectly or have trouble getting the new one installed, it can damage your counters, your sinks, and even your plumbing. But have no fear, we’re here to help you along the way.
Removing Your Old Sink
The first thing you’ll want to do is clear under the sink and remove all clutter. Once you’ve got that cleared out, turn off your hot and cold water valves and turn on the faucet to remove any water currently in the lines.
After you’ve confirmed your water is turned off, it’s time to start detaching things. First, start by removing the kitchen faucet hoses from your hot and cold water lines. Most modern kitchens have a garbage disposal, if you’re home does the next thing you’ll want to unplug the disposal from power.
After, unplug the hose from the dishwasher (if connected to your disposal). Detach the disposal from the drain, and then loosen the drain collar from the sink.
At this point, your sink shouldn’t be attached to any pipes, and you can remove it from the cabinet. Depending on how long it’s been in place and the sealant they used this might take a bit of force, but it should come up.
After you’ve turned off the water lines you’ll want to loosen the drain collar the sink and the water drain. Remove old caulking depending on mount
If you’re keeping your faucet, now is the perfect time to detach it from your old sink and install it on the new one. But why keep that old faucet when you could upgrade to a premium new faucet like the ZLINE Apollo Kitchen Faucet to match your new sink.
Picking the best replacement
Now it’s time to install your new kitchen sink, if you prepping ahead and still looking to purchase one, there are many things to consider when getting your new sink. Most importantly what type of sink, and what type of mount.
Two of the most popular types of sinks are fireclay and stainless steel.
Fireclay is more common in homes looking for a farmhouse style, and can in some instances be more sound-absorbing. While stainless steel usually has more options style-wise and can be easier to clean. For more in-depth compassion, check out our blog where we compare the two.
Beyond the style and finish of the sink, you’ll also want to keep the mounting type in consideration, your safest bet is to get a sink that is the same mounting type as your previous one. This will usually take the least amount of work and save you from having to do any extra cutting or fitting with pipes.
But if you have your heart set on something different, for example, you want to switch from an under-mount to a ZLINE 30" Rome Dual Mount Single Bowl Fireclay Sink. You should be okay. Just make sure the new sink will fit inside your cabinet, if you’re unsure reach out to a professional for help.
Installing New Sink
With you’re old sink removed, take this time to clean out old gunk or residue left about from the old sink. We will be focussing on installing a top mount sink for this blog, but if you’ve gone with an under-mount, check out this awesome how-to from Appliance Educator.
First, take your new sink and dry install it to make sure that there are no problems with things like sizing. After you’ve confirmed no issues with the dry install, flip your sink upside down and add your silicone all around the outside lip. After you’ve applied the silicone, place the sink into the opening on your counter and clean up any excess silicone.
Next, you’ll want to install and tighten any mounting brackets that came along with the sink. After, you’ll want to install your sink strainers. Some manufacturers, like ZLINE, the faucets come with seals included so there’s no need to use a messy plumbers putty, but other brands might require it, check your installation manual for more information.
Now with the sink properly installed, it’s time to reconnect all your lines and pipes. Start by reconnecting your faucet to the hot and cold water lines. Then fit your pipes from the sink to the drain. Depending on how different your new sink is, you might need to add in more piping to make a proper connection.
Next, you’ll want to reinstall your garbage disposal and connect any lines from the disposal to your dishwasher. Now with everything reconnected, turn on your water lines and test out both the faucet and the sink to confirm there are no leaks. Lastly, plug in your garbage disposal.
If done correctly your new sink should be installed properly. If you have any questions or need any assistance in purchasing a new sink for your home, The Range Hood Store is here to help. Reach out to us through our contact page below, or leave us a comment on our socials.
