Step 1: Shut Off the Water

Shut off the water beneath the sink, at the shutoff valve, and place a bucket beneath the trap to catch excess water.

Tips to keep in mind: 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. 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 make use of granite combined with resins. Sinks made from these materials are resistant to chips, cracks, heat and stains.

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. 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.

Step 2: Loosen Slip-Nuts

Loosen the slip-nuts on the drain at either end. If your sink is connected to a dishwasher and/or disposal, you'll need to disconnect the plumbing connections as well.

Step 3: Cut Through the Seals and Remove the Old Sink

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. Use caution to avoid damaging the countertop with the blade.

With the seal and clips loose, lift out the old sink and set it aside.

Step 4: Conduct A Test-Fit

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.

Step 5: Install the Basket Strainer

The basket strainer is installed using plumber's putty and teflon tape.

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 — rather than working upside-down after the sink has been put into position.

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Step 6: Apply the Silicone Sealant

With the lines attached, apply silicone sealant on the opening around the edge of the opening. Lower the new sink into position in the opening

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Step 7: Tighten the Mounting Clips

With the sink in place, tighten the new mounting clips on the underside.

Connect the trap and drainpipe, and make any other necessary connections

Step 8: Connect the Water Lines

Connect the supply tubes to the shutoffs, connecting hot water on the left and cold on the right

Step 9: Check the Faucet

Turn the water supply back on. Check your faucet for proper operation. Wait until the silicon has set for a few hours before cleaning up any excess using a utility knife.