Whether you’re remodeling your home or simply want to upgrade your current kitchen sink style, it’s a good idea to take time to understand what goes into the project. Replacing a kitchen sink is a project you can take on yourself without a professional, and taking on a DIY kitchen sink installation can give you the satisfaction of improving your home all on your own. Still, it’s important to prepare all the necessary steps and tools prior to jumping right in.
In this guide, you’ll learn all the steps you need to know about how to replace your kitchen sink successfully, from preparation to installation.
How To Replace and Install a Kitchen Sink
When it comes to kitchen skin replacement, there are three “phases” involved:
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Preparing for the replacement process
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Removing your old kitchen sink
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Installing your new kitchen sink
Breaking down the phases like this helps ensure you're prepared every step of the way to install your new, gorgeous kitchen sink without feeling stressed or overwhelmed.
Phase One: Prepare to Replace Your Kitchen Sink
If you’ve decided you’ll want to replace your kitchen sink all on your own, you’re going to need some essential tools to get the sink replacement process completed properly:
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New kitchen sink
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Bucket
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Old rags
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Utility knife
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Putty knife
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Silicone caulk
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Sink clips (for undermount sinks)
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Plumber’s putty
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Plumber’s tape
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Screwdriver
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Safety goggles
Before purchasing your new sink, carefully measure your existing sink and the cabinet space available. Make sure your new sink will fit properly in the existing opening. If you're switching sink styles (like going from a stainless steel drop-in to a copper undermount sink), verify that your kitchen countertop material is compatible with the new installation method.
Be aware of the time commitment and the different factors that impact your kitchen sink replacement cost. Plan for downtime when your kitchen will be out of commission and, most importantly, ensure you have everything you need on hand before starting.
Phase Two: Prepare to Replace Your Kitchen Sink
Once you’ve gathered together your tools and materials, it’s time to learn exactly how to remove a kitchen sink
Step 1: Stop Water Supply and Remove Drain Trap
Turn off the water supply valves under the sink. These are usually located on the wall or floor beneath the sink. Test to see if the water has in fact stopped by turning on the faucet. This also releases any water pressure. Place your bucket under the drain trap (curved-shaped piping under the sink) to catch any water while you unscrew the slip nuts and remove the drain trap.
Step 2: Disconnect Plumbing and Remove Fixtures
Disconnect the water supply tubes by loosening the coupling nuts that connect the lines to the faucet tailpieces. Keep your bucket and rags close by to wipe any water spills. Remove any extra plumbing added features (i.e. hand sprayers or disposals) from the sink. If you’re removing an undermount sink, remove any clips that may be holding the sink in place.
Step 3: Remove Caulking And Carefully Lift Up Sink
Use your utility knife to carefully slice through the caulking that connects the sink to the countertop. Work your way around the sink’s perimeter to ensure all sealant is cut. Once the caulking has been severed, carefully lift the sink up and out. If the old kitchen sink doesn’t lift easily, check to see if a feature is still attached or all the caulking wasn’t removed.
Step 4: Clean the Sink Area
Use your putty knife to scrape away any excess caulk in the area where the sink was. Make sure you thoroughly wipe down the area. This is a good opportunity to inspect for any damage that might need repair before installing the new kitchen sink.
Phase Three: Installing Your Kitchen Sink
It’s time for the good stuff—officially replacing your kitchen sink! There are two methods for installing kitchen sinks that will depend on different sink types: drop-in sinks or undermount sinks.
How To Install A Drop-In Kitchen Sink
Follow these exact steps to install your new drop-in kitchen sink.
Step 1: Install Sink Features Prior To Placing Sink
Before you put your drop-in sink into place, install any sink fixtures such as the faucet, disposal, and straining basket. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for each fixture.
Step 2: Apply Silicone Caulk Along Countertop
Using your silicone caulk, apply a continuous bead along the edge of the countertop opening, exactly where you removed the caulking before. Make sure it’s even with no gaps.
Step 3: Position the Drop-In Sink Into Opening
Carefully lower the drop-in sink into the opening, making sure to firmly press down along the edges to securely connect to the countertop. Wipe away any excess caulking before it dries.
Step 4: Connect Plumbing and Supply Lines
Reconnect the water supply lines, hand sprayer lines, and drain traps. If applicable, connect the garbage disposal, dishwasher drain, or other fixtures.
Step 5: Turn Water On and Test for Leaks
Turn the water supply back on slowly, checking for leaks or drips. If you notice there are unwanted leaks, turn the water off and tighten connections or apply putty or tape as needed.
How To Install An Undermount Sink
The undermount sink installation process differs from drop-in kitchen sink installation. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Install Sink Fixtures
As with a drop-in sink, install all the sink fixtures (faucets, disposal, drain baskets, etc.) prior to installing the new undermount sink. Make sure everything is secured and sealed.
Step 2: Apply Silicone Caulk On Undermount Sink Lip
Instead of placing caulking along the countertop, you’ll apply a layer of silicone caulking around the top edge or rim of the undermount sink. This forms a watertight seal between the sink and the underside of the countertop.
Step 3: Put Undermount Sink Into Place and Secure Sink Clips
From inside the lower cabinets, carefully lift the sink against the underside of the countertop opening. While holding in place, secure your undermount sink using mounting clips. Work your way around the sink so it’s evenly secured along the perimeter.
Step 4: Connect Drain and Supply Lines
Once your undermount sink is securely in place, connect the water supply lines, garbage disposal, and drain trap. Make sure all the connections are tight but not over-tightened.
Step 5: Turn On Water and Test
Turn on the water supply and check for any leaks or drips. If there are, immediately turn off the water supply and make adjustments to the area accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kitchen Sink Replacement
Below are answers to common questions about how to replace and install kitchen sinks.
Can You Replace A Kitchen Sink Without Replacing The Countertop?
Yes, you can replace your kitchen sink without replacing, or even damaging, your countertop. By carefully removing the caulking that connects the kitchen sink to the countertop and removing all the other sink fixtures, you should be able to lift the sink out without making contact with your countertop. Just make sure your new sink fits the existing opening or can be adapted to it.
Can I Replace An Undermount Sink Easily?
Yes, you can replace an undermount sink with proper preparation and care. Undermount skin replacement can even be done on your own. The process requires that you remove the caulking that seals the sink and counter together and detach the clips or braces holding the sink in place.
How Do You Replace A Porcelain Kitchen Sink?
Replacing a porcelain kitchen sink follows the same basic steps as replacing other sink types, but with special considerations—this type of sink is much heavier than stainless steel style sinks. Follow these steps to replace a porcelain kitchen sink:
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Turn off the water source and disconnect plumbing
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Unscrew any connectors holding the sink to the counter
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Cut through the caulking between the counter and sink using a utility knife.
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Carefully remove the sink out of its place, knowing you may need assistance.
From there, install the new sink according to its mounting style.
Your Action Plan To Replace Your Kitchen Sink
Learning to replace a kitchen sink is a valuable skill that pays off in more ways than one. With proper installation, your sink can look and feel good knowing you took the upgrade into your own hands. Take your project to the next level and consider installing a kitchen sink made for exceptional functionality and performance.
At World CopperSmith, our beautifully crafted sinks serve as stunning focal points that maintain their quality for decades. If you have questions during sink installation or need assistance selecting the perfect model for your kitchen, our team is ready to help. Contact us today to help make your dream kitchen a reality.