There is nothing like a shiny new sink with with new taps and countertop to perk up the look of the kitchen, just like new flooring or appliances. The cost is not major either. Todays it isn’t too hard to fit a new sink and taps, thanks to fittings that simply screw or glue together with no solder or direct heating. However before you attempt any job you should always know your limitations and don’t feel too bad if you don’t think that you are able to cope. There are many professionals out there like Radlett Plumbers who can do this type of work. The new sink obviously should fit well in the pre-cut countertop space, but a good idea is just to test-fit the sink to make sure it is level. Here is a basic guide to the fit, assuming the old sink is out:
Firstly, spread plumber’s putty around the sink’s plughole and set in the strainer assembly. A Radlett Plumber is trained to fit all appliances. Turn the sink upside down and then tighten the drain nut and “tailpipe” piece. Put the sink upright and install the taps, valves, and handles. Tighten these items and connect up the water lines to a T- type fitting. You can also connect up the water supply pipes coming into the valves and avoid doing that once the sink is fitted. Now, place the sink in the cut-out and secure any supplied mounting clamps underneath it. Use a bead of sealant caulk all around the edge and if the new sink is not a self-rimming type, then, run a bead of plumbers putty on the bottom of the lip and caulk the opening to keep it watertight. Seat the sink and tighten any clamps. Remove any packing you have used to block the drain whilst carrying out this job. Screw on a trap to the adapter threads and sink drain. Screw on water supply lines (if you haven’t already) and attach them to the shut-offs. Use a “two-headed” shut-off if you’re also going to connect to a dishwasher. Last of all run both taps and check for leaks.