Forget everything but the kitchen sink, you know that your kitchen reno is all about the kitchen sink!
You can choose the most beautiful, stylish sink on the market to set off your kitchen. But if you – or your contractor – make one of these sink installation mistakes, there might be little choice but to rip it out and start again.
We’ll help you make sure that never happens!
Read on for 6 common sink installation mistakes – and how to avoid them.
1. Not Installing a Vent
It’s not glamorous to consider but think about the abuse a kitchen sink takes.
It accepts all kinds of tiny bits of kitchen garbage every day. To keep it fresh, and stop nasty gases lingering, you need a vent for your kitchen sink. Talk to your contractor or shop around for one suitable for your setup.
It will also keep your sink free of clogged drains, also saving money down the line!
2. Not Cleaning Water Lines
If you don’t clean your water lines before you install your new sink, it will be awkward when the sink is in place.
Take this chance to thoroughly clean them before installation. This makes clogs and blocks much less likely.
3. Not Getting the Right Fixtures
If you’re installing something like a beautiful 39 inch farmhouse sink then you need to get fixtures that will work with it.
That includes interesting parts like the faucet and the taps. But you also need to check that the cabinetry will work with the sink you like.
A skilled contractor may be able to redesign your cabinets to fit the sink. But that will increase your sink installation costs. You’ll save money by consulting them first, to choose something that works with your kitchen.
4. Not Measuring Accurately
This is one of the most common sink installation mistakes, especially if you’re not installing kitchen sinks every day.
You need to understand the different types of sinks and different sink sizes to get this right. Check out the manufacturer’s instructions on how the sink should be installed before you commit to buying it.
5. Using the Wrong Sealant
This can be a common issue with undermount kitchen sinks. They exert a lot of downward pressure on the sealant and can leak more easily.
Make sure that you choose a specialist sealant for the job. Silicone sealant that is designed for kitchen sinks will provide a long-lasting, secure seal.
6. Not Installing Flooring Under the Sink
It might seem like a great way to save a few dollars – come on, who’s going to see it?
But actually, if you don’t run your flooring under your sink then it’ll cause a major headache when it’s time for repairs. The unit will be at a different level to the floor and it’s more likely your visible floor will get damaged in the process.
Save yourself time and money in the long run by continuing your flooring under your sink.
Avoiding Sink Installation Mistakes
With a bit of thinking ahead, these sink installation mistakes are easy to avoid. If you follow our guide, you’ll be able to focus on the fun part – getting the kitchen sink of your dreams for your kitchen reno.
If you liked this, we’ve got articles on home improvement, fashion, technology – all delivered fresh daily!