CAN I HIRE A PLUMBER TO INSTALL A SINK?

We get asked all the time if plumbers install sinks, so we’re here to say, once and for all, that YES, plumbers can install sinks. While your first image of a plumber is probably someone installing a toilet or working on clogged pipes, they’re also the perfect person to replace your sink.

Who better to disconnect pipes, clear drain lines, and install new piping? Can you think of a person better suited to make sure that there are no leaks or clogs after your new sink is in place? Plumbers can do much more than just toilets and pipes.

Are you curious about what goes into installing a new sink? Let’s take a look at the steps to install a sink so that you have a better understanding of why a plumber is an ideal person to replace your sink.

The Sink Installation Process

1. Preparation

Before you remove your old sink, you’ll need to choose a new one. The majority of sinks are either a single basin or a double, so choose whichever you prefer.

No matter the style of sink you want, it’s best that the new one be at least as large as the old one, if not larger. If the new sink is smaller than the one it’s replacing, you’ll have gaps around the edges.

You should also select which extra features you want, such as a sprayer, a built-in soap dispenser, or a filtered water tap. The new sink that you choose should have the number of holes that matches your ideal configuration. It’s hard to add new holes on your own and plugging unused holes doesn’t usually look very high-end.

2. Removal of Old Sink

Pro Tip: Take a few photos of the pipes under your sink before you start taking things apart. If you’re not a professional plumber, you might forget where and how things connect. When your new sink is in place, you’ll appreciate having photos to reference.

Your first step is to turn off the hot and cold water, either under your sink or for your entire house. If you have a garbage disposal, now would also be a good time to turn off its power circuit. Once the water is off, turn on the faucet to release pressure and water in the line.

Under your sink, put a bucket below the hot and cold supply lines and use a wrench to disconnect them. Disconnect the P-trap (the U-shaped section of pipe) and drainpipe. If you have a dishwasher, disconnect the line to it as well. There are metal clips on the underside of the sink that connect it to the counter, so loosen them with a screwdriver.

Next, use a utility knife to loosen the top of the sink from the countertop. At this point, you should be able to push up from the bottom of the sink to loosen it and lift it out of the counter. Use a putty knife and solvent to remove any remaining caulk. Your counter should be clean and smooth to ensure a good seal with the new sink.

3. New Sink Installation

While your new sink is still outside of the countertop, attach the bottom clips. Make sure that all of the clips are turned inward so that you don’t bend them when you place the sink. Now is also a good time to install your new faucet and other accessories like a sprayer.

Attaching your accessories is much easier before you place the sink into your countertop. Use plumbers’ putty or silicone caulk around the edge of the strainer and press firmly for a good seal. You can also attach rubber gaskets and the threaded flange on the bottom of the drain.

If you don’t have a garbage disposal, repeat these steps for the other basin. If you do have a garbage disposal, attach it now following the manufacturer’s instructions. Once everything is attached, apply a silicone sealant to the edge of the basin and lower your sink into position.

From below, turn the clips to point outward. Reconnect the hot and cold-water supply lines and add your garbage disposal. Reattach the dishwasher lines and the P-trap. Once you have everything connected, turn the disposal circuit and the water back on. Run the faucet to check for leaks.

Why Leave Sink Installation to a Plumber?

Now that you’ve seen the steps of sink installation, are you still interested in doing it yourself? If you make a mistake, you could end up with a water leak, so it’s best to hire a reputable company to do the installation for you.

Plumbers are the perfect people to install your new sink. Call Epic Plumbing at (281) 815-2322 now to schedule a service in Pearland, League City, Alvin, Friendswood, Manvel or any of the surrounding areas.