Incorporating installation costs is an important part of planning your partial or full kitchen remodel budget.
Whether you’re making a few changes to your kitchen or planning an entire remodel, you’re likely going to install a new kitchen sink. And while some DIY-inclined homeowners may want to install their own kitchen sink, we’ll cover how much it costs and why we recommend hiring a professional to help with your sink installation.
Average Sink Installation Costs
Installation costs vary depending on the style, complexity of the job, and the contractors. According to HomeAdvisor, most homeowners spend between $220 and $560 to have a sink added or replaced. Angie’s List reports that homeowners spend between $216 and $628 to have a sink installed.
On average plumbers charge between $50 and $200 per hour to install a new kitchen sink. Most new kitchen sinks are installed in 1.5 - 2 hours. Keep in mind that installation costs also vary depending on where you live. Expect to pay higher installation fees in cities like Chicago, IL, and New Orleans, LA, and lower fees in Park City, UT, and Miami, FL.
How Much Does it Cost to Remove a Sink?
If you want to hire a contractor to remove a sink, expect to pay between $30 and $130 for removal. This typically includes removing your garbage disposal as well. Sometimes, sink removal can be a time-consuming process, especially if the sink was set with silicone or glued to the counter. Sink removal may take up to 2 - 3 hours.
How Much Does it Cost to Install a New Kitchen Sink and Faucet?
The cost for faucet installation varies based on the complexity of the job and where you live. New kitchen faucets cost around $115 for installation. If you’re replacing your kitchen sink and faucet, you’ll need to pay the plumber to remove the old ones as well. Expect to pay between $335 and $675 to have a new kitchen sink and faucet installed.
How Long Does it Take a Plumber to Replace a Kitchen Faucet?
On average, it takes a plumber 30 minutes to under an hour to replace a kitchen faucet. This time may vary depending on how simple the replacement is and what type of faucet is being installed.
How Much Kitchen Sinks Cost by Configuration
Different types of kitchen sinks cost different amounts to purchase and install. Here are the estimated total costs to install a kitchen sink based on the configuration and style:
Bar Sink Cost
On average, bar sinks cost between $110 and $500. These types of sinks are small, making them easy to install. Bar sinks are sometimes called island sinks, prep sinks, and wet-bar sinks. Commonly, they’re made of stainless steel or copper.
Drop-In Sink Cost
Drop-in kitchen sinks typically cost between $260 and $1,250. These sinks insert easily into the countertop. They have a rim that goes around the edge of the entire sink, making them very easy to keep clean.
Undermount Sink Cost
On average, undermount kitchen sinks cost between $250 and $1,500. These sinks are more challenging to install because they’re mounted underneath the countertop. They’re usually sealed in place with caulk or epoxy. Undermount sinks are sleek and modern and create a seamless transition from the countertop to the sink.
Farmhouse Sink Cost
Farmhouse kitchen sinks are one of the most expensive styles. They typically cost between $1,000 and $4,000 depending on the material, brand, and size. Farmhouse sinks are known for their large size, white color, and durability.
Common Sink Replacement and Installation Questions
Here are some of the most common questions that homeowners have about sink and faucet installations.
How Easy Is It to Replace a Kitchen Sink?
According to Home Depot, replacing a kitchen sink is an advanced project. It’s not easy to replace an old sink without destroying your current countertops. However, most DIYs with average skills can complete a sink replacement in under 4 hours. Never start an in-depth project like this at the end of the day, always begin in the morning. And if you’re ever unsure of what to do next, contact a professional plumber for assistance.
Can You Install a New Sink in Existing Countertops?
Yes, you can install a new sink on existing countertops, but you have to be very careful so you don’t damage them. Here’s how to remove your old kitchen sink without damaging the countertops:
- Once your home’s water supply is turned off and you’ve removed the drain trap, water supply tubes, and disconnected plumbing fixtures, you can begin removing your sink.
- If your sink has any clips securing it into place, remove them. Usually, this only applies to undermount sinks.
- Now slice through the caulk. Use a utility knife or straight edge to slice the caulk where it meets the countertop.
- Try to lift the single a little bit. Now that the caulk is removed, it should be easier to slide it out of place. If the sink doesn’t easily lift, then something is probably still connected.
- Once you completely remove the sink, carefully remove any residual caulk. Give your current countertops a thorough cleaning before installing your new sink.
How Do You Install a New Kitchen Sink?
Once you’ve removed your old kitchen sink, it’s time to prep for your new one. Follow these steps to install a drop-in or undermount sink.
Drop-in Kitchen Sink
- First, install the sink fixtures. Always install the faucet, straining basket, and disposal before the sink is lowered into the countertop. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to set up the kitchen sink drain parts.
- Now, apply a line of caulk around the countertop opening. Trace the opening of the countertop with a line of caulk—make sure it’s continuous. This is crucial to ensure your sink is sealed properly.
- Once you’ve applied caulk, drop the kitchen sink into the new opening. Press down firmly all around the edges. If any caulk oozes out, make sure you wipe it away with a rag before it hardens.
- Now, reconnect your drain and supply lines.
- Finally, turn the water back on. Once everything is adjusted, turn on your sink to test it.
Undermount Kitchen Sink
- Use your manufacturer’s instructions to install the sink fixtures. The instructions will tell you how to install the faucets, disposal, and drain baskets.
- Next, apply silicone caulk. Your undermount sink will have a lip around it, and this is where the caulk should go.
- Raise the sink into place. Open the cabinet below your sink and have a friend hold the sink in place while you work on the next step.
- Now, secure the sink clips. Secure a clip into place all around the perimeter of the kitchen sink.
- Reconnect all water lines to your faucet. If you have one, you can also reconnect the garbage disposal.
- Last, turn on the water supply. Check your sink and make sure it works and check underneath to ensure everything is secure.
Can You Replace a Drop-In Sink with an Undermount?
Yes, it’s possible to replace a drop-in sink with an undermount sink. It’s easier to replace a drop-in with an undermount than vice versa. Undermount sinks show the sides of your countertop, so if you currently have a drop-in sink, you’ll want to make sure that you have the proper countertops if you wish to swap to an undermount. Undermount kitchen sinks only work with solid stone, granite, and quartz countertops.
Why You Should Hire a Professional vs. DIY
Unless you have previous DIY experience in the kitchen, you should hire a professional plumber and or contractor to help you remove and install a kitchen sink. Most plumbers say that homeowners can easily fix the following:
- Leaky faucets
- Clogged or slow draining sinks
- Installing a new faucet
But, if you don’t have prior experience, plumbers recommend hiring professional help to install a kitchen sink. You can accidentally ruin your existing countertops or worse, your new sink. Many people may choose the wrong type of sink or incorrectly connect water lines, drains, and garbage disposal. Hiring a professional minimizes errors and ensures your new sink looks tidy and functions properly.
At CopperSmith, we always recommend that our kitchen sinks and products are installed by licensed plumbers or contractors to ensure our customers are satisfied with the final product.
Signs it Might Be Time to Replace Your Kitchen Sink
Depending on the kitchen sink material, most sinks last anywhere from 10 to 50 years. Stainless steel sinks normally last around 15 and 30 years, while composite materials can last up to 40 and 50 years. But if your kitchen sink is frequently used or is beginning to show wear and tear, it may be time to start looking at a new sink.
Here are a few signs that you should consider replacing your kitchen sink:
1. Your Sink Has Rust, Stains, and Damage
While it’s normal for your kitchen sink to have some stains, you should be able to remove them with gentle cleaners. Though some stains and damage are permanent. For example, if your stainless steel kitchen sink is rusty, it’s time for a replacement. Materials like stainless steel normally don’t rust unless they’re damaged or very old. Cast iron kitchen sinks are also prone to rusting if they have chips or scratches.
2. Your Sink Frequently Needs Repairs
It’s normal for your kitchen sink to have an occasional leak or clog. However, if you’re frequently calling your local plumber, then it may be time to make a replacement. Frequent leaks may be caused by cracks in your sink. Over time, it can be challenging to continually seal cracks, and it may make more sense to purchase a new sink to prevent damage to your cabinets and floors.
3. Your Sink No Longer Makes Sense for Your Kitchen
Sometimes, your preferences or lifestyle changes and your current kitchen sink no longer makes sense for your household. Whether you no longer love the style of your sink or would like a bigger sink for a busy household, a new kitchen sink is a relatively affordable change that will make a big visual and functional impact in your kitchen.
Find a Long-Lasting, Durable Sink with CopperSmith
Whether you’re planning a budget for your kitchen remodel or considering replacing your kitchen sink, CopperSmith can help. We specialize in high-end, custom sinks handcrafted in a variety of high-gauge metals, including copper, brass, and stainless steel. All of our metal sinks are made in sustainable materials that are designed to stay out of landfills.
From roomy farmhouse sinks to sleek undermount sinks, we offer a range of sink configurations to fit your kitchen’s needs. If you have questions about our products or would like to learn more about a specific model, contact our team today!
