If you are looking for a simple and inexpensive way to change the look of the entire bathroom, installing a new sink and vanity is one of the best ways to do it. You might not think that a new bathroom sink and vanity would make much of a difference, but once you see it in place you will quickly change your mind.
Replacing your existing bathroom sink with a brand new vanity is not as difficult, or as costly, as you might think. From free shipping offers to instructional videos, there are plenty of ways to make the replacement simple and painless.
With the right preparation steps and a few simple instructions, you can get down to the business of replacing an old bathroom sink and vanity in a matter of hours.
Here are some tips to get you started:
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Any time you work in the bathroom, you will want to first shut off the water. Locate the water main and turn it off, then disconnect the supply lines. Be sure to place a bucket underneath the lines to catch any water trapped in the pipes.
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Once the water has been turned off, you can continue by loosening the caulking between the existing vanity and the wall. Use a utility knife to remove the caulking on all sides, then carefully loosen and remove the old vanity.
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Removing the old vanity is the first step, and now it is time to install the new one. Begin by locating the studs and lining up the new vanity. Use a stud finder to determine the right location and mark the wall a bit higher than the height of the new vanity.
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Hold the vanity against the walls and mark the position of the screw holes, then set the unit in place. Make sure the vanity is flush against the wall and that everything is level. You may need to use shims to level the vanity while keeping it flush against the wall.
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If you are also installing a new bathroom faucet, read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. It is much easier to install the new faucet before placing the vanity top in place, so take advantage of the opportunity.
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Once the new faucet has been installed, it is time to secure the new vanity to the wall. Hold the vanity in place and secure it with the screws, then secure the vanity top to finish the job.
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Be sure to caulk the sides of the vanity once the new sink is firmly in place. Run a bead of caulk along the top edge of the base to secure the vanity in place and prevent leaking. Always use caulking that is specifically designed for tub and tile use, since general purpose caulk will not provide the same level of waterproofing.
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Once everything is in place, it is time to reconnect the plumbing. Connect the water lines, turn the water main back on and run a line of caulk around the edges of the vanity. You may need to smooth down the caulking with a fingertip to make it as smooth as possible.
Catherine Speak is a house-proud mom and a real DIY enthusiast. She is always prepared to consider tackling any job in the home and enjoys sharing her experiences with an online audience. Catherine writes on a regular basis for a variety of relevant websites.