How do I install new sink and cabinet?

Lin Koontz
by Lin Koontz

Replacing old with new how long should it take and how easy is it really for a rookie

  8 answers
  • Zard Pocleeb Zard Pocleeb on Mar 15, 2019

    On a scale of 1-10 it’s probably a 7. As far as how long it will take...the time can vary widely depending on several factors such as how easy is it to remove the old cabinet? will the new cabinet slide right in? How adept are you at using the tools? You should probably plan on at least 4 hours.

  • Unless you know some basic plumbing, I would suggest hiring a handyman.

  • For a first timer, this could be an all day project. Just depends on how adept you are with tools. I say go for it, as this is a valuable task that will lead to other projects. Everyone needs to learn some time! I would have a handyman on speed dial in case you get stuck. Watch a bunch of You Tube videos rather than going in blind.

  • Suzanne Suzanne on Mar 16, 2019

    I suggest allowing an entire day. If it can go wrong... it probably will. It also depends on how old the plumbing is. Be sure to turn OFF the water supply to the entire house. There should be water valves under the sink that will turn off the water supply to the faucet. The valves have a rubber washer in them that will deteriorate over the years and may or may not turn off the water supply to the faucet. That is why you turn the water off to the entire house. Don’t create additional problems. If you have an electric water heater turn off the electricity at the fuse box. Sometimes the water will drain out of the water heater and it will burn out the heating elements if there is no or low water in there. As for cabinets... you will need some very strong people to help hold them in place. You may be able to do this yourself but it would be great to have someone to help that has done this before and knows the ropes. I wish you luck and admire your ambitious undertaking. Just keep in mind “what’s the worse that can happen?” Don’t hurt your back. Cabinets can be heavy!!! Good luck. Hope it goes well for you just don’t get hurt.

  • Nana Nana on Mar 16, 2019

    I agree with everyone. It is all very good advice. My advice after 50+ years of diy is buy how to books on line or old fashioned store bought. Study until you have a clear understanding of how to do your project. Make sure you have all the proper tools. Tools can make or brake a job. The right tools get the job done much easier and faster. And most important measure, measure and measure again. My diy started when there was no money for having someone else do it for me. (Divorced mother of two and helper to my grandmother who raised me. She was a diyer also.) That said, I believe anyone willing to learn (all to often through trial and error) can diy to their hearts' content. Go for it and best of luck.

  • Bathroom or kitchen? Cast iron sinks can be tricky with all the weight.