Today we are going to to give you easy-to-follow steps for replacing sinks and laminate countertops.
At WaterSmart, we have over 25 years of experience in the plumbing and water softener industry; and we'd love to share our expertise with you.
We'll step you through the process with helpful images so you can try replacing your own. So, let's get started.
Replacing Sinks and Laminate Countertops: Level of Difficulty
If you are very experienced using power tools and you are capable of making precise cuts, then replacing sinks and laminate countertops should be a moderate to relatively basic job for you.
If you are installing a sink on a countertop that is open on one or both sides, then the installation will be much easier. If however, you have a U-shaped countertop that is enclosed on either side by walls, then it will be much more difficult to do. You may want to consider hiring a professional to do it properly.
Replacing Sinks and Laminate Countertops: Time Required
If you are an experienced handy-person, then replacing sinks and laminate countertops should take about a weekend to install.
Laminate countertops are made by bonding layers of plastic to particleboard or kraft paper creating a solid surface that imitate their more expensive counterparts of granite and marble. Laminate is a much lower cost alternative that is family-friendly, low maintenance, and very easy to work with.
Replacing Sinks and Laminate Countertops: Materials Required
Basic hand tools
Jigsaw
Belt Sander
Drill
Goggles
Gloves
Step 1: Take Accurate Measurements
Always take accurate measurements when replacing sinks and laminate countertops - Image Source:
Lowes
The most important step in replacing sinks and laminate countertops is to take accurate measurements to ensure you get the right size of countertop to fit your kitchen.
The best way to get the right size is to measure the dimensions of your cabinets. Make a drawing of your kitchen and add in the width and depth of your cabinets. Add in where your sink goes as well as any walls that your countertop will butt up against.
Your countertop supplier will be able to determine the size of countertop you need and will include the right amount for overhang.
Step 2: Disconnect Your Sink
Once your new countertop and sink arrives, you are ready to begin. Start by first turning off the water supply and disconnecting the plumbing tubes attached underneath your sink. Disconnect your sink drain.
If you are replacing your sink, then you can leave it attached to your old countertop and take it outside still attached to your countertop.
Step 3: Remove Your Sink
Remove your sink if you are planning to re-install it -
Image Source: Lowes
If you have a heavy sink or if you are keeping your old sink and installing it into your new countertop, remove it now. Push up the edges of your sink from underneath and slid wooden blocks underneath the edges.
This will give you enough space so that you can get your hands under the edges of your sink, so you can lift it out. Take out the sink.
Step 4: Remove Your Countertop
If your countertop is older, it might be nailed to your cabinets and you will need to pry it off. If it is newer, then it may be screwed or glued down.
Take out any screws and pry it loose. You may also have to slice the caulking strip along your backsplash if you have any before you can pry the countertop loose.
Step 5: Attach 3/4" x 1 1/2" Build-Up Strips
Use Build-up strips when replacing sinks and laminate countertops - Image Source: Lowes
Installing build-up strips on the tops of the cabinet sides will prepare your cabinets for the countertop installation. Glue and screw down the strips keeping them 1 1/2" back from your cabinet fronts.
You also want to add strips to the corners for support. You now need to pre-drill 3/16" clearance holes for your mounting screws.
Step 6: Install Your Countertop
Place your new countertop on your cabinets. If the wall that your countertop is resting against is not even, then you can use a scribing tool to measure the angle and then use a belt sander with an 80-Grit belt to sand to the line.
The following video will show you how to use a scribing tool.
Scibing will help your countertop perfectly fit against an uneven wall
Screw down your countertop making sure that the length of your screws doesn't go more than 1/2" into your countertop. Use a matching tub and tile caulking to seal your countertop to the wall.
Step 7: Installing Your Sink
The most important part of installing your sink it making sure that you measure it properly. Make a mark in the center of your sink cabinet.
If your sink came with a template (most new sinks do) then lay it down centered on your mark and parallel to the edge of your countertop. If you are using your old sink, you can lay it upside down to use as a template.
Trace around your template or sink and then draw another inner line 1/2" inside your outer line. This will be your cutting line.
Step 8: Cut Your Countertop
Cut holes in the corner large enough for your jigsaw to fit - Image Source: PPM Production
Step 9: Install Your Sink
Lower your new sink into the hole and check that it fits. You may need to cut the counter a bit more if it doesn't fit. Remove the sink and apply a bead of plumber's putty around the sink drain hole. Put the strainer into the hold and push it down tightly.
Slip a rubber gasket over the neck of the strainer under the sink. You should then tighten the lock nut. This will secure the strainer to the sink.
Step 10: Install Your Faucet and Sink
Replacing sinks and laminate countertops: Finally install your faucet and sink - Image Source: PPM Production
Install your faucet according to the manufacturer's installation instructions, making sure that it is parallel to the back of your sink. Put some plumber's putty of caulking around the bottom edge of the sink.
Place your sink back in the opening and press it down securely to the countertop. Tighten the mounting screws under your sink. Wipe off any excess putty and let it dry. Once it is dry, you can reconnect it to your plumbing and turn on your water.
Trust WaterSmart for All Your Plumbing Needs
Thinking of replacing sinks and laminate countertops but would like help from professionals? Contact WaterSmart.
You can trust WaterSmart with all of your plumbing needs. We are your local plumbing experts in the Kitchener-Waterloo region proudly celebrating 25 year of professional service.
If you are having problems with your sewer or would like to have it inspected, contact us today. We also provide a full range of other plumbing services that include but are not limited to:
Kitchens and Bathrooms
Toilets and Taps, leaks and repairs
Clogged or Slow Drains
Countertop Pre and Post Installation
Water Softener and Dishwasher Installations
Tankless Hot Water Heaters
New Plumbing and Renovations
Master Plumber and Gas Fitter
