How to Install a Drop-In Kitchen Sink

A new sink can give a kitchen a refreshed appearance.

A new sink can freshen up the appearance of the kitchen as well as provide an efficient space to complete food preparation tasks. A drop-in sink is easy to install and requires few tools. The time needed to install a drop-in sink is minimal, requiring an afternoon of work. Depending on the sink's material, it may be necessary to find a helper to help move the sink around during the installation process.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Pencil
• Silicone caulking
• Utility knife
• Straight edge
• Sandpaper
• Damp rags
• C-clamps
• Saber saw

Instructions

1. Place the new sink upside-down on the countertop and place tape around the edge of the sink to mark the location. If the sink comes with a cutting template, place that on the counter and trace around with a pencil on the countertop to mark where the hole should be cut.

2. Measure with a measuring tape to make sure the marked location is centered on the counter and that there is the same about of space in front of the sink as there is behind the sink. Check that the location of the sink is centered evenly around the sink's eventual opening.

3. Move the utility knife along the penciled outline of the sink to score the location into the countertop. This will help the countertop cut without splintering off later. If possible, use a straight edge to assist with holding the knife steady as it scores the countertop.

4. Cut a hole near the marked outline of the sink. This hole should be created inside the part of the countertop that will be removed, as it is only a place for the saw to begin cutting the hole for the sink.

5. Move the saw to the scribed outline of the sink boundary and cut the sink hole. Follow the marked lines. Apply moderate pressure to the saw while cutting, but let the tool do the work to ensure a clean cut.

6. Sand the edges of the sinkhole lightly with sandpaper to smooth any rough edges and remove protruding splinters.

7. Turn the sink upside-down on the floor and place a bead of silicone caulking around the edge of the sink.

8. Lower the sink into the hole and press down on the edges of the sink. With a damp rag, smooth away excess caulking from the edges of the sink.

9. Clamp the sink in place with C-clamps until the caulk is dry.

References

• Overstock: How to Install a Drop-In Kitchen Sink