Proper Procedure Of Replacing A Kitchen Sink
Sink replacement is an easy project and installing the new kitchen sink is slightly different depending on the type of sink, top-mounted sink, or an under-mount sink. In order to replace both the types of sinks, top-mounted and under-mounted, go through the steps mentioned below carefully:
Step 1: Disconnecting Drain Lines
- Turn Off The Water Valves: Check under the kitchen sink to find out both the hot as well as cold water lines. Simply twist the valves in the counterclockwise direction by hand in order to shut off the flow of both types of water. If in case the valves are not under the sink, then look in the basement.
- Turn On The Faucet: In order to relieve the water pressure simply turn on the faucet. After the water supply has been shut off, then drain out all the remaining water from the line. It will only need a few seconds for the remaining water to flow out safely. It is advisable to keep the buckets under the water lines as well as the pipes while removing them.
- Disconnect The Water Supply Lines: With the help of an adjustable wrench disconnect all the water supply lines. All the water lines are usually fastened together using a small metal connector. Take an adjustable wrench to turn connector in the counterclockwise direction in order to free all water lines.
- Sink’s Drainpipe And P-trap: The pipes have the metal fittings, that look like rings, over them. Turn them in the counterclockwise direction with the help of a pair of pliers to loosen them. The user will be able to pull the pipes apart and then keep them aside.
- Dishwasher Or Garbage Disposal: If there is any of them installed then disconnect them. The dishwasher drain's hose connect with the piping that is near the bottom of the sink. Squeeze the fastener with the pliers and then pull the hose off with the help of a hand. Then after that find out the bracket that is on the garbage disposal unit and turn it using a screwdriver until it is loose enough to pull.
Step 2: Replace Top-Mounted Sink
- Loosen The Clips: There is a small metal clamp that is all around the outside edge of the sink. It totally depends on the clips, whether a screwdriver or wrench is needed or not. Loosen all the clamps to rotate them so that they will face inside of the sink.
- Cut The Caulk Around The Sink: Take a utility knife to cut the caulk that is around the sink. The caulk is between the countertop and the sink’s rim. Hold down the knife as flat as possible against the countertop while cutting the caulking. Gently cut all around the sink in order to free the sink.
- Lift The Sink: Push up the sink from the underside to make it easier to hold. Take a putty knife to clear away any of the caulk that may be leftover on the countertop. Wash away the countertop with the help of soap and water, then dry it.
- Check That The New Sink Fits: Before securing the sink permanently try to lower the sink in the hole where it will be placed. If it will fit in there comfortably, then make the adjustments. Simply cut away part of the countertop so that the larger sink fits, but in case of a smaller sink, it must be returned to the store and get it replaced.
- Seal The Sink With Caulk: Remove the sink from the hole and turn it over after that use silicone caulk to seal the new sink. Apply a bead of the caulk all around the sink. Once done, then flip the sink over and place it carefully into the hole.
- Attach Clips: Now in this step the user needs to fasten the clips all around the sink perimeter for securing the sink properly to the counter. Place the clips in a way so that the face will be away from the sink having the open mouths towards the counter. Twist the screw on each of the clip with the help of a screwdriver or with a wrench until they are tight.
Step 3: Replace Undermount Sink
- Lay A Piece Of Wood: All across the sink place a piece of the wood. The wood must be longer than the sink's wide. Place it on the countertop, the sink is usually heavy and can drop if it is not secured during removal.
- Run A Bar Clamp: Place one end of the clamp with the piece of the wood, and after that drop the other end into the drain. Tighten it with the drain.
- Scrape Off The Caulk: Take a putty knife for cutting the caulk and scrape off as much as possible. The user may also need to purchase caulk remover, but wear protective eyewear.
- Detach Any Clips: Crawl under the sink and check for the clips. It depends on the type of fastener that is used, whether to use a screwdriver or wrench. Loosen them and also remove the bar clamps and the board to free the sink.
- Caulk The New Sink: Apply the caulk on the top side of the sink. Bring the sink from the cabinet and then lift and center it into the right place. Secure the undermount sink with the help of sink clips.