Step 1: Shut Off the Water

Turn off the water and disconnect the supply lines. Use a bucket to catch any water that drips from the supply lines and the p-trap (the white curved pipe in the center).

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Step 2: Remove the Countertop

Loosen the caulk between the vanity and the wall with a utility knife. On the sides, go all the way down to the floor as necessary to remove all caulk.

Remove the countertop very carefully to avoid wall damage. For large countertops and vanities, having another person available makes the job easier.

Step 3: Remove the Old Vanity

Loosen and remove the screws that attach the vanity to the wall. If available, a cordless screwdriver makes this step easier. To avoid stripping the screws, apply firm pressure with the driver and ensure it's in line with the screw and not tipped.

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Step 4: Find the Studs and Position the Vanity

Locate the wall studs and mark them a little higher than the top of the new vanity. Mark the placement of the new vanity's screw holes.

Set the vanity in place. It's very important that the vanity is flush against the wall. Use shims and a carpenter's level to do this.

Step 5: Install a New Faucet

If desired, install a new faucet as per the manufacturer's instructions. It will change the look of the room and make the job go faster in the long run to do this while the vanity top is separated from the vanity. Less time crouched awkwardly under the sink is always helpful.

Step 6: Attach the Vanity to the Wall

Once the vanity is properly positioned, secure it to the wall with screws.

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Step 7: Secure the Vanity Top

Run a bead of tub-and-tile caulk along the top edges of the vanity base.

Carefully secure the vanity top on top of the vanity.

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Step 8: Reconnect the Plumbing

Reconnect the plumbing and replace the p-trap if it's old. Use plumber's tape (Teflon tape) to make the connections easier and tighter.

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Step 9: Finish the Job

Carefully apply a thin bead of caulk around the countertop edges. Apply the caulk evenly without smudging. Use your fingertip or a damp rag to smooth the application.

Courtesy of Lucie Rowe