Many people don’t realize how difficult it is to replace a kitchen sink. The process has become more difficult for some homeowners, because they are using an old-style sink with a modern countertop or piping system. Fortunately, the process is much more straightforward when you know what steps to take.

Choose the a New Sink

There are several things that you will need to be aware of when choosing a new sink. You will want to make the purchase carefully, because some sinks are much more difficult to install and are more prone to damage than others.

Find a Sink that Fits the Existing Hole

You will want to look for a sink that fits the existing hole in your countertop. You may be able to buy a larger one, but you would need to drill to make the hole larger. This can be very complicated, especially if you are working with a laminate counter.

Choose the Materials Carefully

You have a number of options when choosing a kitchen sink. Many people still purchase sinks that are made from stainless steel. This isn’t a bad idea if the material is strong and durable. However, modern composite materials tend to be tougher and more impact resistant. Avoid purchasing a ceramic sink, because they tend to break very easily.

Install Your Sink Carefully

After purchasing your sink, you will want to make sure that you install it carefully. Take these steps seriously to avoid damaging your countertop, plumbing or other parts of your kitchen.

Turn Off Water

The first step before installing a new sink is to turn off the water. You will probably have some excess water after turning off the shutoff valve, so make sure to keep a bucket to catch it.

Removing Your Old Sink

You will obviously need to remove your old sink before installing your new one. Here are some steps to take:

• Loosen the slip-nuts to remove your old sink.
• Remove connections to your dishwasher or other appliances.
• Use an X-acto knife or heat gun to remove the caulking around the sides.

You should be able to pull out your old sink at this point. You will need to be careful to avoid damaging the countertop.

Start Installing the New Sink

You should now be able to install your new sink. You will need to test the fit first to make sure that the sink will be able to get inside. The manufacturer will have specific guidelines to complete the following steps, but they will usually consist of the following:

• Put in a basket drainer
• Use a heat-resistant, waterproof sealant
• Tighten the clips to mount it
• Connect the water lines

The process is usually pretty straightforward. You will want to make sure that you read all the steps carefully to make sure that they are done properly.

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