How To Install a New Kitchen Sink: Replace Your Old Sink

Installing a new kitchen sink is a project that can be handled by a local plumber, contractor, or anyone with a moderate level of handyman experience. 
This step-by-step guide by Havens will show you exactly how to prepare for, remove, and install a new kitchen sink.

Before beginning this project, please thoroughly read manufacturer instructions, as not all sinks are installed the same.
If you are installing a Havens sink, please follow the below steps, or the full installation guide included with your sink upon delivery.

Tools Needed 

Putty Knife | Socket Wrench | Pipe Wrench | Utility Knife | Drainpipes and Fittings | Tape Measure | Adjustable Wrench | Screwdriver | Bucket | Hacksaw | Safety Glasses

Materials Needed

Kitchen Sink | Plumber's Putty | Silicone Sealant (Stainless Sink) | Color Match Caulking (Copper Sink) | Protective Gloves | Shop Towels | Sink Drain (Disposal or Stainer)

 The Planning Stage

Replacing an Existing Sink: Before gathering all materials and tools, it is a good idea to make sure that your existing sink can be replaced, and what will be involved with doing so. The most important things to consider with the new sink install, will be properly measuring and making sure the new sink dimensions will be a perfect fit. This applies exclusively if you are keeping your countertops and or cabinetry. Finding a new sink to replace your existing countertop configuration isn't always easy, especially if the cutout shape is not rectangular. If the countertop is an irregular shape, you will need to find a perfect match, or have a custom sink made to the exact specs. 

New Kitchen Install: If you are lucky enough to be installing a new sink, new cabinets, and new countertops, you will be able to select a sink with minimal limitations. Since the countertop will be newly cut to your choice of sink, the options are limitless. Selecting a sink is an important decision, and research is key in determining what sink is the right choice for your home's kitchen. If you are currently shopping sinks, you will want to see this: The Ultimate Kitchen Sink Buying Guide in 2020

Done Planning? Let's Begin!

Now that you have selected a new sink and are ready to begin installation, the steps below will give you an in depth look at how to install your new sink.
Best of luck, and if any issues arise - keep calm, take a deep breath, and call or email if you get stuck!

Phase 1: Removing the Old Sink

Step 1: Turn off the water supply lines (hot & cold). These are usually located below the sink. If you cannot located these oval shaped knobs, turn off the main water line to your home.

Step 2: Turn on the faucet to make sure all water pressure is relieved and there is minimal water left in the lines. Once the faucet is no longer dispensing water, you are ready to proceed to step 3.

Step 3: Place a bucket beneath the water supply lines and drainpipes to catch water from spilling. Grab your adjustable wrench to disconnect the water supply lines attached to the faucet. If your faucet is attached to the sink, leave it in place - it can be removed with the sink.

Step 4: Turn off your garbage disposal circuit, and also unplug it. Grab a set of pliers to disconnect the drainpipe and P-trap from the sink drain. Use a small bucket to catch water underneath while disconnecting.

Step 5: Remove the dishwasher drain line from underneath the sink. Remove the disposal based on the manufacturer instructions. Check the manufacturer's website for disposal removal instructions. 

Step 6 - Topmount Sink: Your sink may be equipped with install clips or a built-in rail system. Loosen the clips with a screwdriver.

Step 6 - Undermount Sink (Under counter): Cut the silicone or caulking around the sink with a utility knife blade. If your sink has supports, leave them in place until the sink's seal is broken. Once the seal is removed, remove the supports to remove your undermount sink.

Step 7 - Topmount Sink: Push up from underneath the sink and lift the sink from above the counter to remove it. The sink and faucet can be removed together as a unit.

Step 7 - Undermount Sink: Remove the sink from underneath the counter by sliding it out. If you have a stone or concrete sink, this will need to be removed with power cutting machinery.

Step 8: Using a putty knife, remove any excess residue including silicone, caulking, and grime. If you are reinstalling any of the existing components, clean them before reinstalling them. 

Phase 2: Installing The New Kitchen Sink

Before installing a new sink, it is important to make sure the sink will fit into, or underneath the existing countertop opening for a replacement installation.
If you are using new countertops, your granite or countertop fabricator can cut the hole to perfectly fit the new sink.
It is important to have the sink specifications on hand for the installer. If you purchased a Havens sink, download your spec sheet here - Havens Sink Specifications

If cutting a countertop for a new sink - the official Havens recommendation is to do a 1/8" countertop overhang. If you prefer a flush install that is also recommended.

Step 1: Confirm that the new sink will fit by dropping it in over top of your existing counters. If you are doing an undermount install, check for fitment by sliding the sink underneath the existing counters.

Step 2: Install your faucet and any other sink related components while the sink is free of the counters. The faucet will mount through the rear deck of the new sink, and any additional components will fit in the rear deck holes accordingly. The universal kitchen sink faucet hole size is 1-3/8".

Step 4: Using plumber's putty, use a small bead around the strainer (or disposal) drain assembly, firmly pressing the drain to the bottom of the sink's drain location. The universal size for a kitchen sink drain is 3-1/2" and 2" for a bar drain. Tilt the sink on it's side and using the rubber gaskets, secure the flange to the underside of the drain. Remove any excess putty in the sink's basin with a soft towel. 

If you are using a garbage disposal, use a screwdriver to install the bracket to the bottom of the sink. Check manufacturer's instructions for exact install instructions. 

Step 5: If your new sink has clips (not a Havens sink), then turn the clips inward toward the bowl of the sink. If your sink does not have clips, simply drop the existing sink in over the counter. For undermount, slide the sink in place underneath the counter.

- Farmhouse sinks - slide the new sink in place underneath the existing counters, resting the front apron panel on the front cabinetry. It is not required, but some installers will prefer a back support system. For undermount and farmhouse sinks over 42 inches, additional support is recommended.

Step 6 (Undermount): Apply a even amount of silicone or caulking (for copper sinks), to the undermount flange on the perimeter of the sink. The flange will adhere directly to the countertop above and seal it in place.

Step 6 (Topmount): Apply a bead of silicone around the perimeter edge of the sink's flange underneath. Lower and place the sink squarely over the countertop opening. 

Step 7: Reattach the water connections and supply lines to the faucet. Tighten each of the connections with your wrenches, and avoid stripping the threads.

Step 8: If you are using a garbage disposal with your new sink, follow the manufacturers instructions to attach the new unit.

Step 9: Reinstall the remaining components. The dishwasher drain and disposer discharge pipe should be reconnected, and after that you can reattach the P-trap.

Step 10 (Topmount): Apply your final bead of silicone to the outer perimeter of the sink. This seal should be consistent and even around the entire sink.

Step 11: Connect the power to the motorized disposal unit. Turn your faucet on and begin to fill the basin. Your sink is now installed! Check for leaks around the drain, plumbing and faucet locations.