As the name suggests, an undermount kitchen sink is installed below the countertop. If you are an expert, it will take you not more than 30 minutes to install it. But this is possible if the counter is prepped. Chances are higher you are here because you are not a professional. Gladly, the article got your back. To install and secure the sink properly, go through this guide on how to install an undermount kitchen sink.
What What You Need Install A Undermount Kitchen Sink?
- New sink
- Manufacturer’s instructions
- Pliers
- Wood clamp
- Bucket
- Adjustable wrench
- Screwdriver
- Damp cloth
- Putty knife
- Utility knife
- Silicone caulk
- 2 pieces of wood
- A friend to assist you in lifting the sink
Step-by-step process on how to install an undermount kitchen sink
If you’re looking to install an undermount kitchen sink, you’re in luck! In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the entire process, from start to finish. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right sink to installing it. So whether you’re a beginner or a pro, this guide is perfect for you. Here is 7 steps to follow.
Turn off and disconnect the water supply
Prior to removing the old sink, it is advisable to take several pictures of your drain setup to use them for reference. Then, turn off the water supply and disconnect all the plumbing fixtures.
Also, placing an empty bucket under the fixtures and pipes is wise to correct any dripping water. Otherwise, you can clean away excessive water using a clean rag. In case you have a garbage disposal unit, it is wise to switch its power off, disconnect it and remove it from the sink.
Remove the old sink
If you are replacing an old sink with a new one, what follows the first step is to remove the old one. In general, silicone sealant and metal clips fix an undermount sink to the countertop. Here, use a utility knife to cut through the sealant. Besides, use the right tool to unscrew the clips and remove the old sink later. At this time, you can replace the faucet if need be. This is because you have easy access under the sink.
Surface prep
Remove the remaining silicone sealant using a razor scraper. If you are not cautious, you might end up damaging the countertop. Hence, you should be careful with this step.
Here, you can use denatured alcohol or mineral spirits to clean your new sink rim and the countertop’s topside and underside. When handling these products, make sure your cleaning gloves are on. Besides, follow the manufacturer’s instructions keenly for safe and proper disposal.
Position your new sink
At this step, position your sink under the cutout and put on a heavy silicone sealant along the edge. With the help of your friend, let them hold the sink to the countertop while you check if it is well-positioned.
Add the wooden blocks
Place a piece of wood vertically between the bottom of the cabinet and the undermount sink underneath. Add shims in case it is short until you hear it fit snuggly between the surfaces.
A mallet can help to tap the block into place. The major role of the wood is to hold the sink in place until the silicone hardens appropriately.
Secure the sink
If your sink is secure, this is the right time to attach the mounting brackets. These brackets are available in various styles. Dependent on the type, use a drill or epoxy to attach the bar clamps to the countertop. Take your time to select a mounting bracket that suits your needs.
Make the final touches
When the sink is in place, use a damp cloth to remove the visible and excess silicone. Besides, you can wait a day or two for the silicone sealant to dry and remove the wooden block. What follows is to install the sink drain and hook your sink up to the plumbing. Finally, reattach the fixtures you removed from the old sink.
Things to consider before you install an undermount kitchen sink
Want to install your undermount kitchen sink to perfection? There are several things you need to consider before making a decision.. Below are a number of them.
Make sure your countertop is compatible with carrying an undermount sink
Make sure your countertop works well with an undermount sink. The common countertops that do this are marble countertops, concrete countertops, quartz and granite. Checking with your sink supplier is the best way to tell if your countertop is compatible with the sink. Else, you can get a professional contractor to help you out.
Determine the size of the hole the sink will be fitted into
The best undermount sink you need to buy should fit into your countertop hole. Before purchasing the sink, measure the countertop hole correctly. It is disheartening to be left with a big or small hole on the countertop while doing the installation process. Thus, avoid this by measuring the edges of your counter opening. Besides, ensure your undermount sink basin’s bottom does not go past the outlets.
Remove the current sink
If there is an existing sink, follow the proper steps to remove it. This process begins by turning the main water valve. Then, disconnect the water lines and the drain pipe. Using a utility knife to cut through the sealant when the sink is free. At this point, you should be in a better position to lift the sink out. The sink must be disconnected from the metal clips and sealant holding it in place.
After prepping and measuring your countertop correctly, it is time to carry out the new sink installation process.
Benefits of an Undermount kitchen sink
You want to install an undermount sink because of the benefits that come with it. Gladly, there are a number of them. They are as follows.
Completely seamless: It features edges that are hidden completely.
Less dirty: Unlike the regular sinks, you realize that this one becomes less dirty. This is because it has a hidden double bowl option.
Customizable: Luckily, the undermount kitchen sinks are customizable. They have versatile materials such as laminate, granite and quartz.
Easily clean up: You will not have to worry about cleaning the sink. You can do this by wiping food or dirt particles into the sink.
Additional space: With the sink, you can have extra space on your countertop. Hence, you can be sure it differs from those that just eat your countertop space.
Stylish: Everybody loves stylish things. This is mainly when they are in a kitchen. When installed in your kitchen, it looks gorgeous.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do all undermount sinks need clips?
A lot of people are not sure if using clips in sinks is right. However, the truth is that this is dependent on your personal preferences. Some believe the clips help remove the dishes easily from the bowls. On the other hand, some feel they have no help. Instead, they cause dish Yugoslavia.
Can an undermount sink fall?
One of the major reasons undermount sinks are popular is their capacity to be installed in tight spaces. Unfortunately, some people do not like them because they create a big mess if they fall. When the sink falls, it can lead to a lot of damage. Besides, it can be somewhat dangerous. If your undermount sinks drop, ensure you have the right tools to fix the issue.
What holds an undermount sink to granite?
It is tough to install an undermount sink. But they are a beautiful addition to kitchens. What holds it to granite is dependent on several factors. The weight of the sink is one of them. When the sink is too heavy or light, it may be unstable. The surface area of the granite also plays a role in this. For instance, granite with a small surface area cannot support a large undermount sink and dishwasher at the same time.
Are undermount sinks challenging to install?
With the right tools and manufacturer’s instructions, it is easier to install undermount sinks. But, there are several things you need to consider as you do the installation process. One of them is the level of your sink. It is easier to install a low-level sink than a high-level one. Before you start the installation process, ensure you check the plumbing. It should be correct. If you are unsure how it is done, consult a professional installer or plumber.
Can you replace an undermount sink without removing the countertop?
You can replace an undermount sink void of removing the countertop. But, a leaking sink demands removing the countertop to fix it.
Is an undermount sink worth it?
Before buying an undermount sink, there are several things you need to consider. One of them is the installation cost. Generally, the price you will incur to install an undermount sink may be more than that of a traditional sink. On the other hand, pay attention to the sink size. An undermount sink might not be large enough for a lot of people to fit in one place. Lastly, ensure the space in your kitchen is enough to hold this sink and can fit in any present cabinet.
Rita C. Donnell (Jennifer) has spent the last 26 years studying and practicing nutrition science. She has used a larger part of this time in improving people’s livelihoods. She has done so by coming up with unquestionable ideas on how to tackle food problems in her community. Readmore
