How to Measure a Cabinet for Undermount Sinks

Undermount sinks do not have holes for faucets, which affects measurements.

A big part of most kitchen remodeling projects is replacing the countertop and installing a new sink. Installing an undermount sink requires measuring the cabinet to ensure that you purchase the correct size sink for your setup. Undermount sinks do not have holes for the faucet fixtures. This must be taken into consideration when measuring for your new sink before you cut the hole in the countertop.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Paper
• Pencil

1. Go under the countertop inside the cabinet with a tape measure, pencil and paper. Locate the trim boards on the front and back of the cabinet. The trim boards are the part of the cabinet that support the countertop.

2. Measure between the inside edges of the trim board from the front of the cabinet to the back of the cabinet with the tape measure. Subtract 2 inches from the measurement and write the measurement down on the piece of paper. The 2-inch subtraction accommodates the use of the sink clips necessary to secure the undermount sink to the countertop.

3. Take the measurement of the width of the trim board at the back of the cabinet. Write the measurement on the paper.

4. Add 5 inches to the measurement you took of the trim board width. This accommodates the necessary space for the faucet and (if desired) the sprayer. Subtract the trim board measurement and the 5 inches from the first measurement you took. This is the maximum width of your new sink.

5. Measure between the two nearest obstructions along the length of the sink cabinet area. Often the obstruction is between two drawers on either side of the cabinet. Write the measurement down on the paper. This is the maximum length of your new sink.

6. Take these measurements with you when purchasing your sink and stay within the confines of the measurements. This ensures that you purchase a sink that fits your setup before you cut the hole in your new countertop.

Tips & Warnings

• Use the template that comes with your new sink to place the cut lines. Double check everything before you make your hole to ensure that the fixtures and the sink fit.

References

• Blanco: Installing Undermount Sinks