Guide to Installing a New Bathroom Vanity

So you are tired of your old bathroom vanity and want to upgrade to something new and in style, the following will tell you the step by step guide to how. But before you take the steps to installing a new bathroom vanity, you should first check the market and shop around to see the great many styles and looks that are available today. It is also a good idea to use this time to make the decision as to whether you should change your sink and countertop, as they will look out of place above a new and beautiful vanity.

Begin by taking all the measurements you would need; the height and width, and the location of the pipes. Remember to turn off the water and disconnect the supply lines. Next, loosen the caulk connecting the old vanity and the wall.

Now, gently remove the countertop so as not to destroy the wall. A helpful hand may be needed for extra care. Then, using a screwdriver, remove the screws attaching the old vanity to the wall. Now the vanity is free to be removed.

Follow by cutting pipe holes in the back of the vanity and be sure you have enough room for each pipe. Next, find the wall studs and mark them for new holes to be made for the new vanity. Be sure to use colors that will be easy to identify later, and put the marks a bit above the top of the new vanity. This will ensure that the new vanity is straight and balanced. Next, install the new faucet if you are changing the sink, so that once the vanity is in place you won’t need to go back under the sink.

Now, put the new vanity against the wall, making sure that it is well positioned against the wall. Once positioned well, attach the new vanity to the wall studs through the vanity nailer (a nailer is a piece of wood across the cabinet’s back) Use a 3″ wood screw and washer to attach the vanity and hold it together. After attaching, check to make sure the vanity is leveled well. Use tub and tile caulk to properly secure the top.

Now, if you are changing the countertop and the sink came built-in to the vanity, be sure to install the faucet first before the vanity and the countertop. If you have a separate sink, then install the countertop before the faucets to the sink, then the sink into the countertop. Caulk around the base of the faucet and area where the vanity top lays against the backsplash. Put moldings around the vanity base. It is now time to reconnect your plumbing and check for any water leaks.

As always, safety is important in any work, but especially when working with power tools. Be sure to wear safety gears such as protective glasses. Another note, before installing the vanity, be sure to take out draws and doors. This will make the vanity less heavy and the job a bit easier.

Sources:
http://www.diynetwork.com
http://www.lowes.com