Installing a Bathroom Sink

I have bathrooms on the brain (that sounds weird). I just finished my guest bathroom makeover and now I’m slowly working on the master bathroom. So it was perfect timing when Bathrooms.com contacted me about sharing a bathroom-related tutorial with my readers.

Today Bathrooms.com is sharing some tips on installing a bathroom sink. I’ve never messed with pipes and tricky stuff like this before (that’s what dads are for), so I’m learning something new today too.

Sinks are one of the key features of bathrooms and they receive a lot of use, so it’s definitely worth making sure you get exactly the right one for your room. Bathroom suites generally come with sinks as an option, but if you do decide to change your sink separately to the rest of your suite, you may well be able to fit it yourself. If you do, there are a few things to keep in mind when installing a bathroom sink.

For instance, what kind of sink do you need? Pedestal basins, where the hollow pedestal hides the pipework, are very popular. You can also get corner basins, which can be good for small rooms, and floating basins where all of the pipework is concealed. You also need to make sure the plumbing system in your bathroom is suitable for the sink you are planning to install.

Assuming that everything is in order before you start, you should now be ready to install your new sink. One of the main things to think about is the waste drainage system: this shouldn’t be longer than 3 metres in length and so it might affect the location of your sink. You also need to make sure your basin will be at the right height for brushing your teeth and washing, for instance. Between 28 and 32 inches from the ground is usually a good height.

Your next task is to mark out on the blank wall where your sink is going to go. You can do this using a pencil and a spirit level to check your markings are perfectly horizontal before you drill and plug the holes you will be using to fix your sink to the wall.

Installing your sink will vary slightly depending on the type of sink you are using, but if you are using a pedestal sink you will need to position the basin on top of the pedestal. It’s a good idea to get someone to help you with this so they can hold it steady while you check that it is level. Then you need to move the sink close to where it will be fitted on the wall and connect up the waste and supply pipes.

If possible, you should also install the taps before you put the sink into its final position as it’s generally easier to get access at this point in the process. You should ensure that the waste outlet is at the bottom the basin. This needs to be aligned correctly so the overflow system will work without a hitch. You’ll normally need either silicone sealant or washers to secure the waste outlet in place. Follow the specific instructions for your sink to make sure you’ve done this correctly.

Once you’re certain everything’s connected up properly, ease the sink into position and screw it securely into the holes you previously drilled in the wall. With any luck, your new sink should now be in working order and, teamed with some complementary bathroom furniture; it should look absolutely fantastic in your bathroom.