How to Install a New SInk

Replacing an old sink can seem like a job qualified for a plumber. You can replace an old sink a lot easier than you think and save yourself a bundle of money. You need just a few tools and supplies to start. Some sinks come with all the necessary parts right out of the box. The ones that don’t will need a drain and supply lines. Ask the home improvement center salesperson to help with buying the correct supplies before starting. You will need an open end adjustable wrench and a crescent wrench. You might need a Phillips head screwdriver also. Purchase a roll of Teflon tape and a tube of epoxy for the drain valve.

Turn off the water supply to the house or use the valves provided under most sinks. Flush the toilet to help remove water from the lines. Place a bucket underneath the drain to catch water and keep a towel handy for spills. If nuts are rusted on use liquid wrench nut loosened and tap with a small hammer. Remove the supply lines and drain. The sink should now lift out of the top.

Tilt the sink on its side and remove the nuts from under the drain and under the faucet if you are just replacing the faucet and drain. Use tape on your wrench to remove metal nuts without stripping the metal. Once the faucet and drain are free clean the sink around the areas where the new fixture will sit. If it’s a new sink toss the old parts away and bring in the new sink. Assemble according to the directions. Apply Teflon tape to all the threads of the drain and the threads on the supply lines. Don’t over tighten; you may cause a leak on plastic or other soft materials. Use the epoxy for the drain insert. Add more than necessary and peel off the excess when it dries, you’ll have a nicer look than smearing it everywhere.

Once the sink has its attached fixtures place the sink back into the cabinet. Connect the stopper assembly by pushing the stopper handle down all the way and the drain stopper down all the way. Insert the pivot rod and attach to the center hole on the clevis. The clevis bar attaches to the stopper handle. Once secured try using the drain, if it doesn’t close tightly nor doesn’t open enough adjust the clevis bar up or down until it corrects the problem. Reattach the trap and water supply lines. Use Teflon tape on all threads first.

Turn on the water supply again and you should have a leak free sink. Wipe down all inside pipes with a towel. If the get wet again you know you have a leak. Usually it’s a nut that needs tightening. Let the sink run for several minutes to check the faucet works correctly.