You have just bought a new fireclay farmhouse sink and you are not sure on how to install it?
Whether or not you have previous experience in installing kitchen sinks or plumbing fixtures, move ahead and follow the DIY fireclay farmhouse sink installation tips given here.
Required Materials
To prepare for the installation of a farmhouse sink, first, ensure that the water supply is off, electricity is off and you have all the required tools with you. This is part of preparing the area and is one of the steps that are involved in the process. Gather the items given below:
- Plumber’s tape and plumber’s putty
- A razor blade or putty knife
- Caulk gun
- An adjustable wrench
- A small bucket
- Wood glue
- A saw
How to Install?
Step 1- Remove the Old Sink After Disconnecting the Plumbing System
Search for screws or other mechanisms which are used to fasten the sink. With the help of the putty knife, trim or cut the silicone bead around the sink. The sink will come out to lose or else use the flat pry bar. It is also time to release the countertop from its duties. Remove the doors, drawers, and cabinets and use the knife to cut through the silicone beads.
Step 2- Make a Support Frame For a Farmhouse Sink
Since the farmhouse sink is quite heavy, it means that you will have to create a frame using 2x4s and screw it to the sides of the kitchen base cabinet. In order to determine the exact diameter of the frame, it is necessary to use the plumber’s tape and measure the height of the cabinet and the height of the sink separately. Subtract the height of the sink from the height of the cabinet to get the precise measurement of the frame.
Step 3- Remove the Fake Drawer You Have Below The Old Sink.
The fake drawer is secured with spring clips that can be pulled quite tightly. Now, it is time to measure the cabinet area where you would like to install the farmhouse kitchen sink. This cabinet will accommodate only the kitchen sink. Make sure that there is a ¼” margin on all sides. If there are any spaces in between the cuts, it is possible that the trim board can cover it. It is advisable to ensure that the sink is in the middle of the countertop before making a cut. Start by using a saw to make the initial cuts. This will be followed by the installation of the sink. These pieces of wood should be conserved as they will be required when fixing the sink.
Step-4- Install the Sink
You don’t have to do much at this stage, you already have the frame and the layout for the apron front as we have mentioned above. Simply place the sink in the farmhouse sink area and you do not have to use any adhesive or fastener. Place the sink in a position that there is a ¼” gap between it and the wall. Ensure that the sink is level to allow for proper draining of water and in case of any adjustments, use shims.
Step 5- It’s Time to Install the Countertop!
To achieve the above, one has to cover the seam with silicone to ensure it is not visible. It is crucial to cover the seam of the countertop and the sink and let it dry as it will firmly hold the farmhouse sink once dried.
Step-6- Install the Cabinet Top
Wait for the silicon to dry and then it is time to go back and re-arrange the cabinet again. Place the upper part of the cabinet by using the left over piece of wood that you cut out. Now, it is time to install the cabinet boards into the framing to make it as a final touch. Replace the doors when the front of the cabinet is completely level. Finally, to enhance the farmhouse sink, add trim around it to make it more secure.
Before fitting the sink, the drain hole should be cut out. Ensure that the sink is 1/8” lower than the cabinets to create room for the countertop installation. Do not over-tighten the disposal drain since this may cause damage to the sink. Apply putty on the surface of the sink and the drain to make sure that they do not leak.
Credit: Sinkology
Pro Tips for Installing a Farmhouse Sink
The farmhouse kitchen sink looks great in any type of kitchen whether traditional or contemporary. The following are some pro tips that will help you in installing the farmhouse sink correctly:
- Just after placing the sink in the desired position, cut the drain hole and then install the sink.
- Be careful when tightening the disposal drain.
- Remove the old countertop cautiously to avoid any damage.
- The size of the farmhouse sink is similar to the existing countertop. Understand the dimension of the countertop, the sink, and the cabinet.
- Your cabinets will require repainting work.
- Use the caulk to install the faucet in the region of the countertop and then attach the waterlines.
- The doors will probably be cut down or need to be replaced.
- Attach the drain pipes after installing a garbage disposal.
- After the installation is complete, check the faucet, drain, and water lines for any probable leakage.
Final Words
You may always take professional help if you aren’t sure of installing a fireclay farmhouse sink. Following the above step by step instructions, you can complete the job perfectly. A farmhouse kitchen sink is obviously a valuable addition to a kitchen. If things are right in the kitchen, you will love and relish the cooking experience.
As the technological innovations continue to emerge, many homeowners are embracing the conventional design. For someone who is looking for a farmhouse sink, then this is exactly what you need. It is reliable and can last for many years with proper care and it shall help in giving your kitchen a simple and old fashioned outlook.
