Installing a kitchen sink

The sink is a heavily utilized, vital part of the kitchen. Upgrading your kitchen area with the addition of a new sink will give the room a facelift.

Kitchen sinks are offered in a vast selection of models, styles and colours. There are single, double and triple bowl sinks, typically the third, smaller bowl is usually used for a garbage disposal unit.

Tip: Since the brilliance of a stainless steel sink is hard to maintain, it is recommended to pick a matte finish. One way to keep a stainless steel sink looking its best is to apply an automotive wax (such as carnauba wax) to it.
Difficulty level :
Tools list
Material list
Virtual Decorator
Project guide service
Paint calculator
Wallpaper calculator
Related Projects
Related Tips
Page 1/1
1. Making an opening for the sink
2. Install the strainer
3. Apply the silicone caulk
4. Fit the sink into the opening
5. Tighten the retainer screws
6. Fit the pipes

1. Making an opening for the sink

With the countertops solidly anchored to the base cabinets, determine the location where you will be installing the sink. Place the template over the countertop and trace a cutting line around it with a pencil. Remove the template. Drill a hole inside the outline and use the jigsaw to cut out the opening. Make sure the opening matches the size of the sink.

Tip: Make sure all corners are radiused to avoid stress cracking the countertop material.

2. Install the strainer

Remove the protective packaging where applicable. Apply a bead of plumber's putty (or silicone caulk) around the hole in the sink. Lower the strainer body into the sink opening from above and press firmly. Scrape away any excess putty around the sink opening. From underneath the sink, slip the rubber and metal washers over the neck of the strainer and secure the locknut or retainer and screws by hand, followed by an extra half turn with a pipe wrench. Repeat these steps with the other sink when installing a double sink. A strainer will not be required for a single sink equipped with a garbage disposal unit.

3. Apply the silicone caulk

Use a cloth to remove any dust around the opening for the sink. Place the sink upside-down on a piece of cardboard or a clean cloth to apply a bead of plumber's putty or silicone caulk along the entire bottom edge of the upside-down sink.

4. Fit the sink into the opening

Carefully place the sink over the opening and press down firmly into position. Follow manufacturer's instructions to install the faucet.

5. Tighten the retainer screws

From under the sink, use an adjustable wrench to tighten the retainer screws. Wipe off any excess putty.

6. Fit the pipes

Use the waste pipe and a P-trap to fit the strainer body to the wall pipe.

Tip: Don't forget to add a tee-wye with a 1/2 in. threaded fitting if you are planning on installing a dishwasher at a later date.
Installing a kitchen sink is a very simple do-it-yourself project. If you have any questions or for more detailed information please contact your local store for advice.
Page 1/1