Over a while, a bathroom sink gets worn out. This is due to factors such as breakages, rusting and even getting holes. It, hence, means that replacement has to be done once in a while.
Replacing the sink is a sequential process which requires step by step implementation. This is because the outcome has to last for quite some time before a new bathroom sink replacement is done.
So how is the work done? What is the procedure with which to follow when doing this work? For more information, please read through the article.
What are the materials needed to replace the bathroom sink?
Every work begins with preparations. In this case, you have to have the required materials ready. They are:
- A new sink.
- Basin wrench.
- Plumbing sockets.
- Silicone caulking
- Plumber’s tape.
- A pipe wrench and
- Pliers.
How to replace a bathroom sink?
The step by step procedure of doing the work is as enumerated below:
Turn off the water.
As usual, it is impossible to work on a water system when the water is running. You, therefore, have to switch off the water from the main valve and or the inlet.
This provision is usually found either below the sink or next to the water meter. Turn on the tap at the sink to confirm whether the water is still coming out before proceeding with the replacement.
Disconnect the supply to the old sink and remove it.
You will need to disconnect both the inlet and outlet piping to the sink. In some cases, the faucet isn’t seated on hence; there is no need to tamper with it. For the outlet, commonly known as the drain, this has to be disconnected.
Remove the old sink when you are done with disconnection. This is done by loosening the caulk that connects it to the wall. A putty knife can be used it this process. Keep on pulling out gently the old sink until it comes out.
When the old sink is out, confirm if the new one will perfectly fit into its place. If not, then you will need some adjustments to the wall where the new sink will be fitted.
It is always recommended that you replace the old sink with the new model of the same brand. This is because it is easy to fit without a problem
Put the new sink in place of the old one.
By this time, you will have made some adjustments to the wall where the new sink will sit. Now put the new sink in the place of the old one. Do some caulking so that it will hold in place.
Silicone is used to caulk the sink. To ensure that it holds firm, you will need to fasten the new sink with the clips. These are usually sold as one piece together with the sink. Use the pliers or a wrench to fasten the sink.
Put back the water fittings.
Once done with installing the sink, then it is time to put back the water fittings. You begin the process by installing the faucet. In some cases, it might be advisable to install the faucets before installing the sink.
This depends on the type of sink which you are installing. In whatever case, the sink location and the space of the faucet have to match.
If it will not match, then it will not be easy to connect the two pieces. Refer to the manual for the correct measurements.
After installing the faucet, then you proceed to install the drain. This is the part that takes away water from the sink. At this time too you will install the tailpiece.
Ensure that you fasten these two properly in place so that the sink will not drop or leak water when in use. You can use silicone to seal off any remaining spaces left by the fitting.
Install the water system.
Reconnect the water pipes. Ensure that the water pipes fit the new system which could be a bit different from the original design. At this point, you will also need to fit the pop-up. This is the metal that is found in the entrance of the drain.
It uses is to close the drain and even opens when it wants to let the water out. Tighten it enough but remember to make provision for lifting and closing.
In some instances, some sinks do not have pop-ups. There is a plastic closing that can be used to close off the water.
These plastics are usually connected to the sink by the use of a string. This is not the best choice for the modern sink. It is better to buy a sink that can fit the pop-up.
Test the water system and the sink.
At this point, you are almost done with the work. What is remaining is to run the water through the system to see if it is functional. Check on the effectiveness of the sink and whether the connection from the faucet to the drain was done well.
If you notice the problem, you will have a chance to correct it at the initial stages. But if it is working well, then congratulations, you have done good work.
You will need to provide sufficient time for the caulking to hold on properly. When you attach the sink to the wall, silicon was to hold it to the wall.
If water splashes to it before it dries, it may take longer to work. It is advisable therefore to let the sink hold firm before putting it to use.
How long does it take to replace a sink?
It should not take long to replace a sink. If you are replacing it with the same model, the process should take about half a day. Provide more time to replace the sink which is of a different model.
Conclusion.
To replace a sink is a duty that needs some dedication. Procedures are as laid down in this article. It does not take very long to complete the task.
The enumerated steps above are very important and cannot be overlooked. You can always let your plumber help you if you are not sure about the process of replacement.