How To Set A Kitchen Sink

Installing a kitchen sink is a relatively straightforward task that can be completed in a few hours. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can save yourself the cost of hiring a plumber and have a new sink in no time.

Tools and Materials

New kitchen sink
Sink strainer
Faucet
Plumber's putty
Teflon tape
Adjustable wrench
Basin wrench
Putty knife
Level

Instructions

Turn off the water supply. Locate the shut-off valves under the sink and turn them clockwise to turn off the water. If there are no shut-off valves, you will need to turn off the main water supply to your home.
Disconnect the old sink. Use an adjustable wrench to disconnect the water supply lines from the faucet. Then, use a basin wrench to loosen the nuts that hold the sink in place. Carefully lift the sink out of the countertop.
Clean the countertop. Use a putty knife to scrape away any old plumber's putty or caulk from the countertop. The surface should be clean and smooth.
Apply plumber's putty. Roll out a rope of plumber's putty and apply it around the rim of the new sink. The putty should be about 1/4 inch thick and 1/2 inch wide. Smooth the putty out with your finger.
Set the new sink in place. Carefully lift the new sink into place on the countertop. Make sure that the putty is evenly distributed around the rim of the sink. Press down on the sink to secure it in place.
Level the sink. Use a level to check the sink is level from front to back and side to side. If the sink is not level, adjust the putty accordingly.
Connect the water supply lines. Use an adjustable wrench to connect the water supply lines to the faucet. Wrap Teflon tape around the threads of the water supply lines to create a watertight seal.
Test the sink. Turn on the water supply and check for leaks. If there are any leaks, tighten the water supply lines or adjust the putty around the sink.

Tips

If you are installing a new faucet, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions.
If you are having trouble leveling the sink, use shims to support the sink.
Once the sink is installed, caulk around the rim of the sink to create a watertight seal.