Just like you need professional movers and a moving company when moving and installing plumbing (at least the majority of it) should be done by professional plumbers, you should always leave the big jobs to the pros. However, when it comes to sprucing up and souping out your kitchen, you can save some of the lesser costs by doing the safer, smaller jobs. Fortunately, this applies to kitchen islands. Upgrading your old kitchen island sink is a simple and relatively easy job – and can be done with relative ease, if the setup already has connections to the main water lines and drains. If not, they must be connected and laid out by a licensed plumber.
To complete this project, you will need the following items:
1. Pen and paper
2. Measuring tape
3. Pipe equivalent to existing connection or better
4. Kitchen sink
5. Silicone (for caulking and for the glue-up)
6. Hacksaw
7. Razor blade (utility knife)
8. Caulking gun
Also, find a good removal van hire service which you can use to bring all the materials you will be later using for the building. A man and van will also suffice, but it is the more expensive and unneeded option for transportation. Think simple and cheap – the van rental will be more than enough to get you your items.
To begin, first take careful measurements of where the sink currently is, and the configuration of the pipes underneath. Of course, you’ll want to buy a sink the same size as the sink you are replacing – fortunately, they are made with standard sizes. Draw a diagram of the existing connections to make sure you know what to use later.
REMEMBER TO TURN OFF YOUR WATER SUPPLY
Once you are confident that you have a good plan, you may begin removing the old connections and sink. Once your water supply has been shut off to the tap, run the water for another few seconds to release the remaining pressure.
Using the razor, carefully cut the old silicone seal. Slowly and carefully pry the old sink off of the counter. It is held on with silicone to prevent it from moving around – its holding strength is not particlarly great.
While the new sink is upside down, apply a bead of silicone to the underside, to help adhere the sink to the counter. Once you set your new sink down, apply a small bead of silicone around the edges (less is more here, use the silicone sparingly). Using a wet towel (or your finger), wipe up the excess silicone. To give it that professional look, you can use painter’s tape to create perfectly straight lines. Complete the pipe connections as you had them, and you will have completed your project! A straight-forward task with a pretty satisfying outcome is always a good project to take on. Now you can return the moving van and enjoy your new kitchen island.
