DIY: Removing a Bathroom Sink

Bathroom sinks are sometimes heavier than they look.

Bathroom sinks get daily use and over time, they can become chipped, scratched, outdated or simply dingy. When this occurs, it's time to replace the sink with a new one. Although the project involves plumbing pipes, homeowners can complete the process of removing a bathroom sink themselves. Just be sure to take your time so you do not damage the surrounding counter or wall.

Things You'll Need

• Utility knife
• Wrench
• Screwdriver

Instructions

1. Insert a utility knife along the edge of the bathroom sink where it meets the countertop. Angle the blade toward the sink, not the counter, and run it all the way around the perimeter of the sink to cut through the caulk that holds it in place.

2. Look under the sink, opening the cabinet doors if needed, and find the silver water shutoff knobs. There are two knobs, one for the cold water and one for the hot water. Turn both knobs as far to the right as possible to shut off the water supply.

3. Place a wrench around the metal nut above one of the shutoff knobs. Turn the nut counterclockwise to loosen it and detach the pipe from the valve by pulling upward. Repeat the process to detach the other pipe from the other water knob.

4. Find the raised circle on the PVC drain line of the sink and turn it counterclockwise with your fingers to detach the sink from the drain line.

5. Look at the very back of the pipes for a thin metal bar that hangs down. This controls the drain stopper. Twist the nut on the back of the metal bar counterclockwise to remove it and pull it away from the drain.

6. Look up at the bottom of the countertop to see if there are any brackets that hold the sink to the counter. If so, remove the screws from the brackets using a screwdriver.

7. Grasp the top of the bathroom sink and pull it straight up out of the counter.

References

• Overstock: How to Remove a Bathroom Sink
• YouTube: How to Replace a Bathroom Sink and Faucet