| Kitchen Sink Replacement |
| Kitchen Sink Replacement |
From "Ask DIY"
episode ADI-711 |
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Q: I'd like to replace my old stainless-steel sink. What are the best options, and how difficult is installation? A: (Sharon Hanby-Robie, DIY home improvement expert) This is definitely a project that you can do yourself, and it can enhance both the looks and functionality of your kitchen. Here's some information about material options, and instructions for a simple sink replacement.
- Stainless steel sinks can still be a good choice as long as you select one made of heavy gauge steel. Heavy steel is quiet, durable and easy to maintain.
- Many people like the classic look of porcelain sinks (figure A). These are usually selected for style over performance. They do have a classic look, but the porcelain is not impact resistant. If you drop a heavy metal pot onto the porcelain, it may chip or crack.
- New composite materials (figure B) make use of granite combined with resins. Sinks made from these materials are resistant to chips, cracks, heat and stains.
Replacing a Sink Tip: When replacing a sink, you'll probably want to replace your faucet as well. An old faucet on a new sink will likely look out of place. Replacing both at the same time will simplify both processes. Tip: When shopping for a new sink, choose one that's exactly the same size as your old sink, or perhaps larger. You can cut the hole to accommodate a larger sink, but you can't make a large hole smaller to accommodate a smaller sink. You may also want to look for one with a depth of at least 9 or 10 inches to accommodate large pots like pasta cookers and double broilers.
- Shout off the water beneath the sink, at the shutoff valve, and place a bucket beneath the trap to catch excess water.
- Loosen the slip-nuts on the drain at either end (figure C). If your sink is connected to a dishwasher and/or disposal, you'll need to disconnect the plumbing connections as well.
- Unscrew any mounting clips under the sink, then use a utility knife to cut through any caulk or adhesive and break the seal around the edge of the sink (figure D ). Use caution to avoid damaging the countertop with the blade.
- With the seal and clips loose, lift out the old sink (figure E) and set it aside.
- Before installing the new sink, conduct a test-fit to ensure that all the connections can be made. It's possible that you may need to shorten or lengthen the drain pipe to accommodate a sink with a different depth.
- The basket strainer is installed using plumber's putty and teflon tape (figure F).
Tip: If you place the sink upside down, it's much easier to attach the faucet, supply lines and basket strainer in an upright position (figure G) -- rather than working upside-down after the sink has been put into position.
- With the lines attached, apply silicon sealant on the opening around the edge of the opening (figure H).
- Lower the new sink into position in the opening (figure I).
- With the sink in place, tighten the new mounting clips on the underside (figure J).
- Connect the trap and drainpipe (figure K), and make any other necessary connections.
- Connect the supply tubes to the shutoffs (figure L), connecting hot water on the left and cold on the right.
- Turn the water supply back on.
- Check your faucet for proper operation (figure M).
- Wait until the silicon has set for a few hours before cleaning up any excess using a utility knife.
RESOURCES :
Plumbing for Dummies
Model: 0764551744
Author: Gene and Katie Hamilton
1999; Out of Print
IDG Books Worldwide, Inc. (An International Data Group Company)
Foster City, CA 94404
Do-It-Yourself Plumbing
Model: 0060101229
Author: Max Alth
Sterling Publishing, 1987
Out of Print
Plumbing: Step-by-Step Repair Procedures
Model: 188002912X
Author: Warren Ramezzana (Editor
Creative Homeowner Press, 1992
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