Problem: The existing wall-hung sink is damaged or no longer matches the bathroom decor.
Solution: Modern pedestal sinks come in a variety of styles, are easy to install and can dress up a bathroom.
Equipment list:
Pipe cutter that can cut 1-1/2" pipe
Basin wrench or pipe wrench
Slip-joint pliers
Tape measure
Screwdriver
Adjustable wrench
Ratchet and socket to fit lag bolts
Level
Drill with tile-cutting bit
Mounting bracket (included with sink)
Stainless steel flexible supply tubing
Chrome P-trap drain
Safety glasses
Remove the existing sink
- Shut off the water supply at the stops, or valves, and open the hot and cold faucets to make sure the water is completely off.
* On some older fixtures, the water supply valves may be frozen into place. The valve knobs are easy to break, so don't try to force them. If you're planning on installing new valves, turn off the main water supply and remove the entire valve assemblies.
* Some older valves may be difficult to shut off completely. It's sometimes possible to shut off the valve by opening and closing it a few times. If this doesn't work, shut off the main water supply and remove the valves for later replacement. - Loosen the drain nuts with the slip-joint pliers and remove them by hand.
- Remove the P-trap. The P-trap will be full of water, so be sure to have a bucket underneath.
- Loosen the compression nut from the top of the supply stops, and remove the supply tubes. You may also want to replace any rusty escutcheons, which are the decorative covers where the pipes meet the wall.
- Remove any caulking from the existing sink. Then remove the sink by lifting it straight up off the bracket.
- Remove the old bracket from the wall. Now is a good time to clean the wall area behind the sink.
Choose a location for the new sink bracket
- Place the sink along the wall in the area you want it, and mark along the top edge.
- Make sure the mark is level, then measure the distance on the back of the sink between the top and the hanging points. Transfer that measurement to the wall, place the bracket in the appropriate position, and mark holes for drilling.
- Drill mounting holes. If you have tile walls, use a drill bit that is made especially for drilling into tile. Nick the tile to make a good starting point for the drill bit.
- Fasten the bracket to the wall with lag bolts.
- Position the pedestal into place, and install the new sink onto the bracket.
- Reconnect the plumbing attachments by reversing the removal procedure. Always use new materials when installing new fixtures.
Finish the project
- Caulk any gaps or voids between the wall and sink, forcing the caulk as deeply as possible into the voids. Use a caulk that matches the color of the sink as closely as possible.
- Use a wet rag to wipe away any excess caulk.
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