How to Install Bathroom Sinks

Tips and tricks for making changes in the powder room.

Installing bathroom sinks can be quite intimidating for those that are not the average handyman. Since the modern bathroom has increased in size, so has the type of bathroom sinks that are used for installation. Some of the different variations include hung versions along with the kind that fit in powder rooms. Some of the more luxurious restrooms hold dual-basin models, which are very elaborate and pleasing to the eye.

Some of the typical material used for installing bathroom includes: crystal, stone, solid-surface resins, metal and stone. These materials are used in traditional bathrooms along with vitreous china styles. When deciding on the right style and material, it is best to save the most delicate sink materials. These would include materials such as glass and crystal. When including a sink in a powder room, accent look appeal rather than durability. Here are a couple of things to know about the installation procedures, such as working around the drain waste and other supply systems.

Preparation

Preparing the pipes includes the transition fittings, shutoff valves, stub outs and hot and cold supply stub outs. Consider using the air chambers. When installing the sink in an arrangement that is 'back-to-back', a little pipe is needed. This should not have much effect on the drain efficiency. If the fixture is not wet vented, then back vent it in some areas. Make enough room for the bathroom sink to a toilet sink, meaning no items should be in this pathway of the two objects. It is best to get at least 21 inches from the front edge to the fixture or the wall.

Installation

To install the shut-off valves, cut the capped supply lines. While doing this, you will need to cut the ½-inch supply line, usually made of copper, from the finished wall. This is to allow for a shut-off compression of the valve. This goes the same for the ring and the nut.

Try not to compress the pipes by cutting slowly. To do this, using a cutter wheel is the best option. Some people also like to flatten the pipe. Keep in mind that the compression ring is only able to tighten directly on a round pipe. Make sure to assemble to the faucet according to the actual directions available on the package. Some people like to use their own discretion for installing bathroom sinks; however, this is not advised.

Slip on the Escutcheon

Put the Escutcheon and the nut onto the compression ring. Do the same for the valve. While sliding the valve outfit over the compression ring, make sure to hold it up. Tighten the coupling nut straight into the valve. This can be accomplished using two crescent wrenches. When it is properly seated and finished, it will squeak when tightening. This is a pretty good sign to stop. The drain body and the drain pipe will need to be connected.

Finishing Touches

With installation complete, restore the water pressure and check for leaks.