article

Replacing Your Kitchen Sink and Faucet

By Bluehammer Admin

Replacing your old sink and faucet can make a big aesthetic and performance difference in your kitchen. The following are some helpful tips when it comes time to replace them.

When is it Time to Replace My Sink and Faucet?

If your sink is worn or has chips, it might be time for replacement. Additionally, if your faucet is leaking or isn't working as it should, it is a good candidate to be replaced as well. They don't have to be broken however, you might just think it's time for a change in style.

Cost Factors of Replacing Your Sink and Faucet

Both labor and material costs factor almost equally into this project. If you are a capable do-it-yourselfer, then you can save on your project cost depending on the quality of your finishes selected. Below are the main cost factors in the project of replacing your sink and faucet.

  • Removal of the old sink and faucet
  • Purchase and installation of the new sink and faucet
  • Replacing water supply lines and angle stop (if necessary)
  • Installing any new plumbing and materials

Saving Opportunities on Labor Costs

If you are hiring a plumber to install your new sink and faucet, you can still save on costs by removing your existing sink and faucet yourself. Below are the steps to remove your existing sink. When removing your sink, leave the faucet connected to the sink to make removal easier.

  • Turn off your waterYour water can be turned off under the sink on the wall. If you can't turn the water off here you can always turn off the main valve. Once the water is turned off you will want to open your faucet to release any water pressure thats left. it's always a good idea to have some bath towels on hand when disconnecting water lines.
  • Unplug your garbage disposalIf your disposal is hard wired you can shut your electricity off at the main breaker.
  • Detach the water lines to the faucetUnscrew the water lines to sink with a wrench and disconnect. Be ready for any water that is still in the water lines.
  • Detach the plumbing and drain lines to your garbage disposalUnder the sink, disconnect and remove the p-trap by loosening the slip nut located at the top. Note that there will be water left in the pipe so be ready with a bucket or towels. Also disconnect the dishwasher drain line attached to the disposal.
  • Remove the garbage disposalRefer to your owner's manual for removal. To unhook the unit, twist the mounting ring until it dislodges. Be careful, garbage disposals can be heavy and once they dislodge they can surprise you.
  • Remove the sinkThese are instructions for drop-in sinks. Remove the clips underneath your sink attaching it to the countertop. Carefully cut along the caulk sealant around the sink with a knife and gently pry it loose from the counter making sure not to damage the finish. Remove the sink and clean any remaining sealant left on your countertop.

Installing Your New Sink and Faucet

You have many quality options for your style of faucet but the majority have the same install dimensions and will fit most sinks. If you are replacing a similar sized sink (single or double size bowl) you will not need to make any major changes to your plumbing. Sinks come in different styles and sizes. The most common style is the drop-in sink however you can also get an under the counter sink. Below are steps to install a drop-in sink.

  • Assemble your clips and check for a good fitAttach the mounting clips underneath your sink while it is easily accessible making sure not to tighten all the way. You will need to rotate the clips inward to be able to fit the sink in the opening. Put your sink in the opening to check the fit. You may need to make adjustments to your opening. Remove the sink to make it easier to install your faucets.
  • Assemble your faucet componentsNow is an easier time to assemble your faucet, drain strainers and garbage disposal ring to your new sink. Follow the manufacturer directions that came with your components. Make sure you have plumbers putty on hand for installing the drainer.
  • Install the sinkAdd sealant to the bottom of your sink edge in a nice even bead. Gently place your new sink into place. Sinks can be heavy so having someone to help is a good idea. Once your sink is in you will need to secure the clips you installed earlier to the bottom of the countertop. Rotate and tighten the mounting clips.
  • Re-attach the water lines to the faucetBefore you install the garbage disposal, attach the water lines to your faucet with a wrench making sure to not over-tighten.
  • Re-attach the garbage disposalYour new unit should twist into the mounting ring. Make sure it is tight and secure.
  • Reconnect your plumbingIt's a good idea to make sure any adhesive or sealant has dried before you re-connect your plumbing. If your plumbing does not fit you can buy connecting kits at your local hardware store to help you make your connections. Attach both the plumbing and dishwasher drain line. If you bought a new garbage disposal make sure to pop out the knockout plug before attaching the drain line. Turn on your water and test for any leaks.
  • Re-connect the garbage disposalPlug in or turn on your electricity and test for operation. Check for leaks.
  • Seal the outside of the sinkApply a bead of sealant to the outside perimeter of the sink. Use a wet towel to get a nice clean finish.

Want to estimate your home improvement costs before talking with a contractor? Claim your home for free with bluehammer to estimate costs, secure your home inventory and learn more about your home.

* THIS REPORT IS AN OPINION THAT MAY BE INACCURATE AND IS PROVIDED SOLELY AS AN INFORMATIONAL TOOL NOT DESIGNED TO PROVIDE DEFINITIVE ANSWERS. ALL ELEMENTS ARE OFFERED “AS IS” AND BLUEBOOK EXPRESSLY DISCLAIM ANY AND ALL WARRANTIES, REPRESENTATIONS, AND GUARANTEES OF ANY NATURE, EXPRESS, IMPLIED OR OTHERWISE, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABLITILY, NONINFRINGEMENT, TITLE, QUIET ENJOYMENT, ACCURACY, OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL BLUEBOOK (OR THEIR SUPPLIERS) BE LIABLE FOR ANY GENERAL, DIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, INDIRECT OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OF ANY KIND, OR ANY DAMAGES WHATSOEVER (INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION, THOSE RESULTING FROM USE OF THE PRODUCT, INCLUDING : (1) RELIANCE ON THE MATERIALS PRESENTED, (2) COSTS OF REPLACEMENT GOODS, (3) LOSS OF USE, DATA OR PROFITS, (4) DELAYS OR BUSINESS INTERRUPTIONS, (5) AND ANY THEORY OF LIABILITY, ARISING OUT OF OR IN CONNECTION WITH THE USE OR PERFORMANCE OF INFORMATION) WHETHER OR NOT BLUEBOOK HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.

Know what you should pay for your home improvement projects with bluehammer.Claim your home. It's free!

Popular


How To Create A Statement Ceiling

Are things looking up in your home? How about people? If there's nothing to draw their eye up, you may be missing out on a great decorating opportunity. Today, the ceiling is being called the "fifth wall," and it's a great place to add color, texture, and interest to a space that is often ignored.

You Really Should Inventory Your Personal Property

A home inventory is a smart way to safeguard your valuables, saving money and time.

Replacing Your Washing Machine

With moving parts, water and dirt, washing machines perform some tough work.

Replacing Your Bathroom Sink and Faucet

Replacing your old sink and faucet can make a big aesthetic difference in your bathroom.

Lawn Care For The Fall: Essential Tips to Follow

All summer you've been watering, cutting, trimming and feeding your yard in the hopes of having the greenest plot of land in the neighborhood. So what should you do to get your lawn in shape for the cool breezes of autumn? These six steps will help you get a head start on the colder weather.

7 Model Home Ideas To Steal For Your Home

You don't have to be in the market for a new home to tour model homes. In fact, model home complexes are a great place to get a few ideas for your existing home. Whether you're looking for ideas to renovate your kitchen and want to see the most current trends, are having a hard time deciding on paint colors and want to see how others are incorporating color into the home, or are simply looking for a little inspiration, you can find it here.

Replacing Your Garbage Disposal

Your garbage disposal eats alot of food and then one day it stops!

The Nightmare Next Door: What To Do When Your Neighbor Is a Nuisance

The animals that live in the house across the street bark incessantly. The people two doors down play their music so loud you now know all the lyrics to every Kendrick Lamar song ever written. And something, presumably a dog (you hope) keeps leaving presents on your lawn. Annoyances like these can make it unpleasant to live in your neighborhood. And, they can quickly escalate, becoming dangerous or even in need of legal intervention.

Best New Security Tips To Keep Your Home Safe While You're On Vacation

Nothing kills your vacation buzz like getting a call from the police back home letting you know your home has been burglarized. Basic home security tips are great, but safety measures are continually evolving, with new and more refined ways to keep you and your home safe.

Clever Tips To Make Painting Your Home Easier

Painting is one of the easiest and least expensive ways to transform a space. But it can also be a hassle, what with all that taping and prepping and cleaning up. These clever tips can make it easier. Fun, even. (That might be a stretch.)

See More Articles