How to Install a Vessel Sink

STEP 1 - Be mindful of your vessel sink design

First, think about the height of your new sink and vanity. Vessel sinks can be recessed in the counter or sit on top. Pick a vanity that supports the sink at a comfortable height – about 36 inches to the top of the bowl is typical. Also, use a taller faucet with a long spout designed for vessel sinks.

STEP 2 - Remove the old vanity

To remove your old vanity, turn off the water supply, and turn on the faucet to relieve pressure in the lines. Loosen the nuts to remove the drain pipes, and disconnect the water lines from the valves. Cut the sealant along with the backsplash and remove it. If your vanity is secured to the wall, separate the top from the vanity with a putty knife, lift it off and back out the screws. The vanity should now pull out. With the old vanity out you can make plumbing repairs. It’s also a good time to paint, install wall tile, or replace the floor.

STEP 3 - Install the new vanity

To install the new vanity, mark the height and width on the wall to see the layout. Then use a stud finder to locate and mark the wall studs above the outlined area. Use a tape measure to transfer the plumbing locations from the wall to the back of the vanity. Then cut with a hole saw a little bit larger than the size of the pipes. If your new vanity has drawers, make sure the plumbing won’t interfere. Position the vanity, and check that it’s level. Use shims to adjust. When it’s level, drill holes through the back into the studs, and secure the vanity to the wall with screws. If you can’t line up the holes with studs use wall anchors for your wall type. Attach the faucet on the vanity top before installing the top on the vanity. Leave the faucet loose to make adjustments after the sink is installed. Add silicone caulk or adhesive to the top of the vanity and position the vanity top in place.

STEP 4 - Add the vessel sink

Attach the backsplash; then caulk the joint. Apply a bead of clear silicone caulk to the bottom of the vessel, and position it over the hole on the vanity top. (The overflow hole should be toward the front). Then assemble the drain, aligning the overflow hole with the sink. Don’t over tighten. After the caulk has dried install the rest of the plumbing. You might have to cut the tailpiece with a hacksaw to make it fit. When the plumbing is installed adjust the faucet as needed. Turn on the water and check for leaks. Finally, add the hardware. Consider matching the style of your vessel sink with a new mirror and lighting fixture to complete the look.

Vessel sinks have become a popular choice, especially for San Francisco bathroom homeowners. Ever since bath stores started to populate these types of sinks, people have come to flock and purchase. Also, now that vessel sinks come in a wide range of variations, more and more homeowners have thought of installing them in their homes. If you're still in doubt and think you'll have more trouble installing these yourself, feel free to ask Eano Home Renovation for help. We do not only offer San Francisco bathroom packages, we are also currently teamed up with quality store partners who sell top-tier bath decors and accessories like these amazing vessel sinks! So if you happen to kick off your next bathroom update, drop by our Eano website and book your appointment with us today!