As you’re going down your list of home projects, you stumble upon “Replace kitchen sink.” 

You might not know exactly where to start. Maybe you’ve never replaced a sink before. So it’s important that you get a good idea of how ambitious the project is. That way you can decide if you want to tackle it yourself or hire a professional.

If your sink is leaking heavy amounts of water that’s causing water damage, consider hiring a professional. But if it works fine and you’re just looking to get an upgrade, you may be able to install your sink yourself.

The first question people often ask is: How long should it take to replace a kitchen sink?

This depends on many factors including:

• The size of your sink
• The type of sink
• Your comfort level DIYing
• How much help you have
• How the current sink was installed
• The complexity of the installation
• The current condition of your sink and countertop

A professional can install most standard-sized sinks in a couple of hours. If you DIY your sink, it may take a few days to complete from start to finish. Remember that you have to gather all the tools and safety equipment before you start.

The size of your sink

Most sinks are between 20 to 22 inches long and 30 to 36 inches wide. The larger your sink, the longer it’ll take to install. If you ask a friend for some help moving the sink, this can make the installation much easier. 

The type of sink

Drop-down or overmount sinks

Drop-down or drop-in sinks are one of the most common types of sinks in today’s kitchens. They sit over the counter. Most drop-in sinks are made of stainless steel or ceramic materials.

Here’s a short video on how to replace a drop-down kitchen sink.

Undermount and apron sinks

Undermount and apron sinks are more difficult to install than drop-in sinks. Typically made of porcelain, these sinks can get quite heavy. You’ll also find stainless steel undermount sinks, but most modern homes feature porcelain and ceramic sinks.

While you can get by with one person installing a drop-in sink, you’ll definitely need help installing your undermount sink. Someone has to hold the current sink in place as it’s being loosened. Similarly, when the new sink is installed, you want one person lifting the sink in place and the other securing it to the countertop.

Learn more about installing an undermount sink in the video below.

Your comfort level with DIYing

If you’ve never installed a kitchen sink before, there’s quite a bit to learn. That means it’ll take you more time than an experienced DIYer who has done a few sinks to complete the installation. Keep this in mind before you tackle this kitchen renovation project.

You can also grab a friend who has some experience for help.

Check our 5 Quick and Easy Ways to Cover Kitchen Countertops.

How much help you have

I’ve already mentioned this but it’s important: ask a friend for help to make the job easier. In the case of an undermount sink, it’s pretty much required. You won’t be able to simultaneously hold the sink in place and secure it. It could be possible, but it’s definitely not easy.

How the current sink was installed

The original installation can have a significant impact on replacing your kitchen sink. In the video above on drop-down sinks,  the original installer didn’t cut the hole for the sink in the counter accurately. So the installer had to get a saw and shave off a little more of the counter so the new sink fit comfortably.

Mistakes in the original installation can come in many different forms. The sink could be mounted in an unconventional or perhaps unstable way. This just means you’ll want to exercise caution when removing your current sink.

Not so much with sinks, but in other DIY projects, people might drill into sheetrock to secure appliances to the wall. That’s a common mistake. You should instead find a stud and secure the appliance to it for maximum support.

But enough about other appliances. Just keep in mind that your current sink might not be installed with best practices in mind.

The complexity of the installation

This goes hand in hand with how the current sink was installed. If your current installation is poorly done, that means you’ll likely have to make quite a few adjustments when replacing the sink. This could mean making new measurements and cuts in your counters. Or you might have to replace neglected water supply lines that are worn down.

Replacing supply lines will take more time but you will thank yourself in the long run. Stainless steel pipes are a great option. They are resistant to corrosion and can’t easily be punctured. Your pipes might need replacement if you notice some discoloration, dents, or any leaks when the faucet is running.

Typically under mount sinks are more complex to mount and install than drop-down (also called drop-in) sinks. 

Along with your kitchen sink, you might also need new plumbing or a new garbage disposal. These installations can take some time to complete.

The current condition of your sink and countertop

Inspect your sink for water damage, as you’ll want to solve that problem before putting in a new sink. Take a look around the entire sink and underneath it where leaks may have led to water damage. Check the supply lines, drain and shut-off valves for corrosion or damage before you start your installation.

With drop-in sinks, be careful when detaching the sink from your counter. You could easily damage the counter. The easiest way to loosen the sink is to slide a putty knife or other flat tool under. Make sure you loosen all the nuts and bolts that keep the sink in place first.

How much does it cost to replace a kitchen faucet?

Faucet installation costs about $300, according to HomeAdvisor. This doesn’t include the cost of installing new pipes. Larger faucets will cost more to install. If your faucet is in a tight space, that may drive up the price of installation.

How long does it take for a plumber to install a kitchen sink?

A plumber should take about two hours to install most kitchen sinks. Whereas an inexperienced DIYer might take six to eight hours. Or about three to four days if you work on the sink for two hours a day.

Is replacing a kitchen sink easy?

You can DIY most kitchen sinks, but you likely won’t ever be as fast as a professional. Definitely ask a friend for help. They’ll not only help you remove and mount the sink but you can learn how to install the sink together. If you’re installing a sink for the first time, an extra hand is so helpful.

Can you replace the kitchen sink without replacing the countertop?

Yes, with undermount and drop-down sinks you can replace the sink without replacing the counter. If you need to cut a larger hole in your counter, be careful that the countertop does not crack. If you are replacing a bigger sink with a smaller sink, you may need to install a section of countertop over your sink and cut a new hole. Then your sink won’t move. This takes time but it’s not as labor-intensive as replacing your entire countertop.

How do you remove a kitchen sink without damaging the counter?

Use a flat putty knife like this one from Amazon. All you do is gently lodge it under the sink and lift. Do this around your entire sink to ensure that it is completely detached from your countertop.

How long does it take to replace a bathroom sink?

A bathroom sink should take one to two hours for a professional. Most homeowners can install a bathroom sink in four to five hours. Bathroom sinks are typically smaller and simpler to install than kitchen sinks.

How are undermount sinks attached?

Most undermount sinks are attached to your countertop with metal clips and silicone sealant. One person should be on the floor lifting the sink toward the countertop after you’ve applied the sealant. The other can reattach the clips while the sink is in place.

How long does it take to install a toilet?

Toilet installation should take a professional under an hour and a DIYer about two hours. Removing and replacing a toilet will take closer to 1.5 hours for a professional and about four hours for the average homeowner. It’s typically a one-person job but you might need help moving the toilet into your bathroom.

That wraps up our article on how long it takes to replace a kitchen sink. Are you ready to tackle the project? Pick an afternoon where you have some spare time and get to it! You don’t have to DIY your installation but it can definitely save you some cash. And as far as home installations go, it’s far from the most complicated.

Good luck!

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