Attaching the sink to the countertop from below. Attaching sinks to the countertop in the kitchen How to attach a round sink to the countertop

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Installing a sink in a countertop with your own hands: instructions

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The sink is an indispensable element of the kitchen interior. Most foods have to be washed before consumption: vegetables and fruits, meat, fish and others. And after the meal you need to wash all the dishes. Installing a sink into a countertop is becoming increasingly popular, as are all built-in appliances. Kitchen design looks neater and more expressive when furniture and household appliances are one.

However, when purchasing a sink, it is important to consider not only its aesthetic qualities, but also functionality and reliability. For these features to work as they should, installation knowledge is required. Installation by a master is not very cheap, especially in Moscow, so some people decide to do it themselves. This article explains how to properly install a sink yourself.


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Preparation for installation activities

Before carrying out installation work, you should prepare everything you need: tools, consumables and the sink itself. The countertop should already be installed in your kitchen. Moreover, it must match the material of the sink. Because countertops of different sizes and composition have different load-bearing capacity, that is, the maximum load that it can withstand. Thus, stainless steel is suitable for thin countertops. If you have a stone one, then the sink material (at a minimum) is artificial stone. Or you can choose special holders that are installed in the bedside table under the platform.

What tools will you need? You should prepare: measuring instruments, an electric drill (or a jigsaw), several screwdrivers, an adjustable wrench, a construction knife, a sealant gun. The required consumables are determined by the intended installation method. You can make a universal list of what will be useful in any case: screws, sealants and construction adhesive. Also, do not forget about the plumbing connections, for the implementation of which you will need a siphon, a water supply hose and a mixer.


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Rules for marking

An important stage during which the location of the sink will be determined in accordance with its dimensions. There is no doubt that we also start from the parameters of the selected sink, but there should be no contradictions with the standard rules of location and installation.

Firstly, the cutting edge (the point of contact between the sink and the countertop) must be at least 50 mm from the edge. This rule must be observed regardless of further installation methods.

The sink can be mounted on glue or hardware. Only in both cases it is necessary to reduce the load on the edges. The exception is the fragment with the rear end. Here the distance to the cut can be even 25 mm. This is due to less pressure on the structure in this part. When marking, do not forget about communications (later they will be connected to the central point of the sink). They must pass freely to the sink to ensure water supply and drainage into the sewer system.

Installing a sink using glue

This method of attaching the sink to the countertop is not the most reliable, but it is simple and fast. If everything is done well, the fit is tight, then the mount can be quite durable. Before applying glue, sand the edges of the tabletop in the cut areas. To do this, use materials with fine abrasive particles (sandpaper, fine-grained grinding wheel). Then we lay out a polyethylene seal, which often comes with the product in the kit.

We warn you that the glue method is only suitable for installing stainless steel sinks, not stone ones. They can move, breaking the fixation. The adhesive solution is applied to both the areas that will come into contact with the tabletop in the future and its actual edges. It will be possible to use the kitchen only after the composition has completely crystallized.

Inset and overhead sinks - differences in installation

This provides installation instructions for these two types of sinks. Let's look at the installation of a mortise sink step by step.

  1. The kit usually contains cardboard templates; if not, use the sink itself. Place the template on the finished tabletop or on a separate module that allows the installation of built-in elements. Secure with tape in several parts. Remember that the sink does not come into contact with the sides or spacers.
  2. Determine the location of the sink on the work surface. Approach this responsibly, because ease of use depends on it. The normal distance from the edge of the table is from 5 to 10 cm. Draw the outline of the template. Next, stepping back 1.5 cm, draw another contour. We will cut a hole along it.
  3. Using an electric drill, we drill holes according to the reconnaissance. The drill diameter is usually standard (10-12 mm), we select it according to the drill blade. Then we go around the perimeter with a jigsaw.
  4. Before attaching the sink to the countertop, we clean the area from sawdust and dust and treat it with sandpaper.
  5. We have a hole, now we insert the sink into it, check whether the cut is accurate and whether the sides fit well. We also look at the mixer and flexible hoses, because repairing them with an installed sink is problematic.
  6. On the inside of the hole, we treat the edges of the tabletop with silicone-based sealant to protect it from moisture.
  7. Apply double-sided tape to the edge of the sawn area (on the front side of the tabletop). If it is not included in the kit, apply the sealant again.
  8. Now the sink is directly inserted. Try to press firmly against the edges so that all the cracks are filled with sealant. Using fasteners we tighten it from below. We do this sequentially: we pull the corners diagonally, not all the way. In the same way we tighten the fastening screws in the middle. We clean off excess tape and sealant.

A video on how to properly embed a sink into a countertop will help you have a more accurate idea.

Now let's look at how to attach a sink attachment.

  1. The easiest method is to attach it to it. We install an overhead sink on a special bedside table. It should completely cover the edges of the cabinet, and its width should not exceed the width of the underframe. The ends of the latter are treated with silicone sealant. We place and press down the sink. It will be securely fixed after the sealed material has dried, which will be an excellent protection against moisture.
  2. Attachment to mounting brackets. In a standard situation, special fasteners are used that are included in the kit (can be purchased separately). We screw in the screws from the inside of the cabinet, then attach the brackets to them. Now tighten the screws a little. We install our object and shift the mounting angle along the screw, trying to fix the self-tapping screw in the corner to completely press the sink to the underframe. Finally, tighten the screws all the way.
  3. Fixation with wooden blocks. If there are defects in the countertop or there are no fastenings at all, then the standard installation method will not work. In this case, we take wooden blocks and furniture corners and create an installation site. You can put the bars in the box. Then we attach the corners around the perimeter. We place the structure on the bedside table. We screw the rest of the corners from the inner walls of the underframe. To ensure that the top of the sink is level with the cabinets, the height of the bars can be adjusted.

We tighten the fasteners exclusively by hand so as not to deform or overtighten the sink.

To install directly to the wall without a cabinet, we use special brackets on the sink. We make two markings of different heights (the first is 80 cm, the second is slightly lower). This will be the line for attaching the brackets. We drill holes in the wall and secure the brackets.

Connecting the sink to communications

First of all, cold and hot water hoses are connected on both sides: to the mixer, to the water supply channel. The junction of the first must necessarily contain rubber insulation. Next we introduce a siphon release. It is better to choose a curved type, because bottle ones get dirty quickly. A sewer pipe is connected to the siphon.

If the installation was not of a ceramic or metal sink, but of artificial stone, then the communication material should be the most durable and rigid. For example, the pipe is a reinforced corner structure. Finally, we check all connection points and, if necessary, provide them with sealing collars.

Conclusion

To prevent repairs from costing a lot of money, carefully plan the purchase of the necessary tools and materials, study photos and videos on the Internet so that you don’t have to call specialists to correct the situation. By following all the rules, you can achieve excellent results without outside help.

Video: DIY installation of a sink in a countertop

Reliable fastening of the kitchen sink to the countertop, cabinet or other structure is a guarantee of long-term operation of the plumbing fixture. It is possible to achieve rigid fixation of the product only if you approach the process correctly, from the point of view of using an installation technique that corresponds to the model of the sink being installed. Therefore, the fastening for the sink to the countertop, cabinet or console is determined by the model of the plumbing fixture.

Types of sinks for washing

The range of kitchen sinks is represented by a huge assortment of household appliances, differing not only in size and design, but also in the installation method and fastening. Thus, according to the installation method, there are such models of kitchen sinks as:

  • Tabletop. These sinks are installed on top of the kitchen countertops, to which they are attached at the level of the drain siphon. This type of sink is used extremely rarely in kitchens. In bathrooms, these sinks are found as premium appliances. Therefore, their price is appropriate.
  • Invoices. Devices of this type are installed on floor stands. The design of the sinks contains sides that serve as supporting planes. The device is placed on them, resting on the upper ends of the cabinet walls. Most often, these models are made of stainless steel, hence the low price of the product.
  • Mortise. Structurally, a device of this type is “recessed” into the countertop of the kitchen unit, to which it is attached from the reverse side of the plane with special fasteners. The installation process involves cutting out a part of the countertop exactly to fit the size of the sink.
  • Under-table. Such sinks are installed just below the front surface of the countertop. These models are usually placed in countertops made of stone (natural or artificial). To secure them, special brackets are used, and the ends of the appliances are treated with a special adhesive composition, which not only glues the sinks to the countertop, but also creates a tight seal between the planes.
  • Integrated. Basically, such sinks are made of synthetic stone, less often of stainless steel. The main installation condition is the minimum gap between the appliance and the countertop.

Attention! Only professional plumbers install underbench and integrated models. This is due to the fact that the installation of such sinks is a complex process, which is based on an exact fit to the countertop. Therefore, it is better not to carry out such installation yourself.

Installation technologies

The easiest installation method is to install an overhead model.

  • The floor cabinet of the kitchen set is aligned in a horizontal plane using a short building level.
  • If the mounting dimensions of the plumbing fixture correspond to the installation parameters of the cabinet, then the first installation and fastening is carried out using silicone sealant. To do this, the upper surfaces of the ends of the cabinet, on which the sink is installed, are treated with sealant. It is pressed harder against the ends, for which some weight is placed inside the bowl. After 12 hours, the device is connected to the water supply and sewer networks and functions in the desired mode.
  • There is a so-called standard mount. These are special brackets made of metal or plastic. They are installed on the inner walls of the cabinet using a self-tapping screw, which is not screwed in completely at first. A bracket is put on it, pressing the top shelf of the sink to the ends of the cabinet. By moving the bracket along the direction of the bevel angle, the sink is tightly pressed against the cabinet walls. After this, the self-tapping screw is screwed in completely. Plumbers advise that all work on screwing in fasteners should be carried out with a screwdriver, and not with a screwdriver or drill. This is due to the fact that strong pressure on the thin metal of the sink leads to its deformation. The photo below shows this option.
  • Almost the same option as the previous one, only instead of brackets for attaching the sink, wooden blocks and furniture corners are used. The sink is placed on bars, which are pressed from above with your hands, and the corners are installed on the block and the wall of the cabinet. The connection is made with self-tapping screws.


Installation of a mortise structure

First of all, a cutout is made in the countertop for the sink. To do this, use the template that comes with the sink. If there is none, then make it yourself. To do this, the sink is turned over and placed on a cardboard sheet. A line is drawn along its perimeter to indicate the shape of the hole. It can be round or rectangular.

Next, the same line is laid inward from the drawn line, showing the shape and dimensions of the landing area. Application distance is 1-2 centimeters. A hole in the cardboard is cut along the second line. After which the template is applied to the countertop at the exact location of the plumbing fixture, an outline is made on the surface, along which holes for the sink are cut.

The easiest way to cut is to drill many through holes around the perimeter of the marked line with a small drill with a diameter of 6-8 millimeters. A jigsaw blade is inserted into one of them, with which the material is cut around the perimeter. If the tabletop is made of laminated chipboard, then there is no need to make many holes, since it is a rather soft base, and a jigsaw will easily cut it.

Next, all cut planes are treated with silicone sealant, and butyl tape is laid on top of the tabletop around the perimeter of the cut hole. Both seals are designed to seal the joint and perform additional waterproofing functions. Now the most important point is attaching the sink from below. For this, a special metal bracket is used, consisting of two parts: a clamp and a holder. The first one has teeth at the end, which, when pulled together, will cut into the tabletop material and prevent the fasteners from moving. The other end is installed in the side of the sink, holds it, and when tightening the screw, presses the product to the plane of the table.

Both parts of the fastener are connected to each other with a screw, often spring-loaded. By screwing or unscrewing the screw, the clamp is strengthened or loosened, respectively. In this case, the connection between the two parts is hinged, that is, the lower clamp rotates relative to the upper holder, which simplifies the installation of the fastener.

The bracket is made of metal: stainless steel, galvanized. Today, manufacturers offer fasteners with plastic inclusions. It is clear that metal products are stronger. As in the case of overhead sinks, all threaded fasteners are screwed in with a screwdriver.

Rules for installing stone sinks

Sinks made of stone or granite and quartz agglomerate are in great demand today. They have a lot of weight, so during the installation process they have one important advantage over other models: pressure on the countertop, which ensures a minimum gap between the planes of the sink and the table. Therefore, the main thing is to accurately align the surface of the kitchen countertop in a horizontal plane. Then all cut planes of the hole for the plumbing fixture are treated with silicone sealant or any other similar material. The main task is to carry out thorough waterproofing.

After this, the sink is installed in the hole and pressed. Plumbers recommend immediately checking the horizontalness of the installation with a building level. After 12 hours, the device can be used, but first it will have to be connected to communication networks. There are no fasteners, the sink will stay firmly on the countertop due to its weight and sealant.

Conclusion on the topic

The question of how to properly secure a sink to a countertop is asked quite often. Home craftsmen are looking for simple but effective solutions with which they can carry out this installation process themselves. In any case, the main requirement for an installed sink is its rigid and reliable fastening.

The use of innovative technologies in the field of design has significantly expanded the range of interior solutions for the kitchen, where the equipment used must be not only aesthetic, but also functional. In accordance with existing requirements, a modern kitchen must be equipped with a number of devices and appliances designed to optimize the food preparation process. One of these devices is a kitchen sink, the installation of which only at first glance seems like a fairly simple task. However, given the variety of models and possible locations for its placement, it is important to approach the choice of design and the procedure for its placement in the most responsible manner. Despite the wide range of models, the most popular are mortise structures made of stainless steel and built into the kitchen countertop. Given the popularity of these products, it would be most advisable to consider the design features of this product and search for an answer to the question: “How to install a built-in sink into a countertop?”

Principles of ergonomics in the kitchen: the role of the kitchen sink

To optimize the cooking process, it is necessary to properly arrange kitchen furniture and appliances. Surely everyone is familiar with the concept of “ergonomics” and its basic principles, which may vary somewhat depending on the type of room. The kitchen is no exception - renovations in this area are subject to strictly defined ergonomic principles. In accordance with them, the arrangement of furniture and equipment in the kitchen depends on the order of work, and therefore it is recommended to arrange the furniture from left to right in a strictly defined sequence: refrigerator - dishwasher (if available) - sink - stove. It is recommended to place work surfaces with cabinets between the mentioned technical objects.

As for the minimum distances between objects, they are also subject to certain requirements:

  • The distance between the sink and the stove, as well as between the refrigerator and the sink should be 40 cm;
  • The refrigerator and stove should also be located at a distance of 40 cm from each other.

What should you consider when choosing a kitchen sink?

When choosing a kitchen sink, pay attention to the following factors:

  • Functionality, determined by the nature of the work being done in the kitchen and depending on the number of additional bowls in the sink and drying wings. These compartments will be useful if you are used to carrying out several manipulations at once in the kitchen;
  • Capacity, in the process of determining which it is necessary to pay attention to the number of dishes washed daily;
  • Stability and durability, largely dependent on the material from which the structure is made;
  • The design solution and design of the sink should be such that it fits perfectly into the surrounding environment and becomes a full-fledged element of a holistic interior concept;
  • Ease of use: the configuration of the sink should be such that it is comfortable to stand and work near it.

Design types of kitchen sinks: brief description

There are a number of requirements for installing a kitchen sink, and therefore it must be carried out in accordance with a certain technology. The choice of the required technological solution, and, accordingly, the installation method depends on the design of the sink. Let's look at the most popular design types:

  • Overhead sinks- the most budget option, the distinctive feature of which is the ease of installation of the structure. The principle of their installation is based on the fact that the sink is placed on a separate cabinet, and therefore they become a continuation of the countertop, as if replacing it. Despite the undeniable advantage described above, sinks of this type also have disadvantages - the relatively small thickness of the product and the formation of a gap between the sink and the countertop, which leads to additional inconvenience;

Important! Experts recommend giving preference to overhead models if the kitchen set consists of separate sections. If kitchen modules are combined under a common countertop, it would be more appropriate to use built-in models.

  • Built-in sinks- are models that are installed directly into the countertop, and therefore installation activities must begin with the preparation of the appropriate hole in the countertop. The technology for installing mortise sinks involves attaching the structure to the inside of the countertop using special clamps and brackets. Built-in sinks of this type are characterized by a solid appearance and ease of use. Despite the fact that the cost of such models is somewhat higher, experienced specialists often prefer them due to their practicality and the ability to avoid moisture accumulation between the cabinets;

  • Underbench sinks- innovative models, the high cost of which reduces their widespread availability and limits their widespread use. The principle of installation of these plumbing products involves their fastening below the level of the countertop, and therefore they form a single whole with it. The advantages of undermount sinks are their aesthetic appearance, high noise absorption and effective sealing of joints. In addition, such products are hygienic and durable.

Materials for the manufacture of mortise and overhead sinks

As for overhead and mortise sinks, both are made of stainless steel with equal frequency, remaining one of the most popular at the moment. The appearance of mortise stainless steel sinks can be different - the most common are smooth sinks and sinks with a texture that imitates linen.

In addition to traditional sinks made of stainless and enameled steel, mortise sinks made of stone and mineral-epoxy composite materials are no less popular. Artificial stone is also a popular material. Sinks made from composite materials have an impressive grain structure that resembles polished stone in appearance. Built-in sinks made of artificial stone make up a large group of kitchen accessories characterized by high aesthetic and performance characteristics, including resistance to scratches, abrasion and sudden temperature changes.

The shape of sinks is no less varied - along with single-bowl sinks, there are also models with several (from two to four) bowls, which can be either shallow or deep, equipped with additional dryers.

Installation Basics for an Overmount Sink

  • The installation of an overhead sink is carried out on a separate module of the kitchen countertop so that it completely covers its upper part. This installation is quite simple - the equipment is fastened using L-shaped elements with an oblique slot. To fasten one sink, you need to prepare at least 4-5 fasteners.

Important! Before you begin installing the sink, you need to connect the faucet, which will subsequently avoid difficulties during the installation process.

  • Attach the fasteners prepared in advance to the inside of the cabinet and leave the appropriate marks;
  • Prepare the shortest self-tapping screws (15 mm) and screw them in the marked places so that at least 5 mm protrudes above the mark;
  • Treat the end of the cabinet with sealant, which will protect the furniture and increase the reliability of the sink;
  • Install the sink on the screwed-in screws and move until it fits completely;
  • Fix the fasteners and, after removing excess sealant, connect the sink to the water supply and sewerage systems.

Installing an undermount sink into a countertop: a step-by-step guide

Let's consider the principle of installing a mortise sink in a countertop made of chipboard, covered with plastic on top. If you are wondering how to attach an undermount sink to a countertop made of other materials, including artificial stone, carefully read the product data sheet, where the manufacturer must describe in detail recommendations for working with this material.

Preparation of materials and tools

Before installing the sink, check that it is complete with mounting materials. Most often, these are special clips that are mounted on both sides - on the cut end of the countertop and on the inner surface of the sink. In addition, the kit should include a tubular sealant, which will be required to seal the joints. In addition, prepare the following set of tools:

  • A jigsaw, which can be replaced with a regular hand tool, and a set of spare wood saws;
  • Drill with a 10 mm drill (for metal) and self-tapping screws;
  • Standard set of measuring tools: construction knife, level, corner, tape measure, Phillips screwdriver, ruler and pencil;
  • Colorless silicone sealant necessary for sealing cracks and joints.

Performing markup: important nuances

  • The markings made in accordance with the recommendations below will be relevant when installing a standard rectangular mortise sink. When installing a round mortise sink, familiarize yourself with the additional installation nuances.
  • Using a pencil, in the place where you plan to install the sink, draw two perpendicular lines, at the intersection of which the drain will be located;
  • Turn the sink over and place it on the countertop with the bowl facing up and align it in accordance with the prepared markings (you can see the intersection of the axes through the drain hole). Take a simple pencil and trace the outer boundaries of the sink around the perimeter. In this case, it is important to take into account the dimensions of the mortise sinks, as well as the relative position of the boundaries of the sink and the remaining free edge of the countertop, the presence of which is necessary for the rational installation of cabinet doors;

Important! To prevent a sink embedded in the countertop from becoming an obstacle to closing the cabinet doors, it must be located inside the cabinet.

  • Next, measure the width of the side of the sink and, in accordance with the obtained value, draw an internal contour along which the cutting line will run. Despite the fact that the width of the side is an individual value for each sink, on average it fluctuates within 12 mm.

Important! The size of the hole must be such that the sink fits freely into it, while the permissible deviation from the markings should not exceed 3 mm.

How to properly cut a hole in a tabletop?

  • This process is carried out using a jigsaw, however, before the saw of the tool enters the full depth of the material from which the tabletop is made, it is necessary to make technological holes to facilitate the work process. Holes are made using a drill or screwdriver in the corners of the internal markings.

Important! The corner holes should be located in the inner plane of the cutting area, and their edges should only be in contact with the cutting line.

  • To avoid chipping the laminated surface, the entire cutting area must be performed on the front side of the tabletop.
  • After you have made holes in the corners of the cutting plane, use a jigsaw to cut a hole along the inside cutting line. To prevent the cut part of the tabletop from falling, screw in self-tapping screws along the cut line, which will ensure its fixation.
  • After you have made a hole in the tabletop, remove the screws and the cutting part of the tabletop from the main plane, clean the cut from dust. Pre-install the sink into the resulting hole, which is necessary in order to check the product’s compliance with the dimensions of the hole.

Important! The sink should fit freely into the resulting hole (if difficulties arise, you need to trim the edges with a jigsaw).

  • During the preparation of the hole, all kinds of microchips and roughness can form on the internal cut line. In this regard, it is necessary to consider the rules for processing a slice; if neglected, the following problems may arise:
  • Absolute sealing of an uncleaned chipboard surface is practically impossible;

Important! Insufficient sealing will lead to moisture entering the unprotected area of ​​the countertop, which will cause the activation of rotting processes and the formation of fungal plaque. Subsequently, the cut edge will become brittle, which will reduce the stability of the sink and lead to its distortion.

  • Rotting of the countertop will soon lead to a decrease in its physical, aesthetic and operational characteristics, and therefore there will be a need to replace it.
  • To avoid this, the end side of the cut is sanded with fine-grained sandpaper;
  • Carefully treat the entire cut area with plumbing sealant. Experts recommend doing this work with a spatula; if you don’t have one, you can do it with your finger. By taking such protective measures, you will prevent the tabletop from getting wet and swelling.

Important! If during the work you find chips on the plastic (the front side of the tabletop), carefully coat them with sealant, and it is not at all necessary that the layer be thick - its thickness in this case does not matter.

  • There is another way to protect the end side of the cut - treatment with PVA glue. Despite the fact that it is more labor-intensive - in terms of its reliability it is not inferior to the previous one, however, for greater protection, the applied layer of glue must dry for 30-50 minutes.
  • The next stage involves gluing a seal made of foamed polyethylene (it was previously noted that it should be included with the sink). It is glued to the side of the sink along its entire perimeter. If, after gluing the sealant, you find protruding edges of the material, carefully trim them with a knife. If you neglect this advice, you will find that the edges of the sink do not fit tightly to the countertop, and water entering the gaps will lead to swelling and subsequent rotting of the ends of the countertop.

Due to the fact that the process of gluing the seal directly determines the wear resistance and performance characteristics of the future headset, we will consider it in more detail.

  • Take the sealant and, using a rag moistened with gasoline and solvent, degrease it;
  • Apply sealant to the seal using a continuous strip (the sealant strip should be thin enough so that the glue does not come out during compression);
  • Press the seal against the outer edge of the sink.

How to attach a built-in sink to a countertop?

  • Apply a layer of silicone to the countertop (between the cut and the outer marking line);
  • Install the fasteners on the inside of the sides of the sink and, making sure that they are not fully secured, proceed to install the sink. It begins with a recess on the side where the faucet will be attached;

  • Subsequently, the rest gradually fits into the hole until the sides of the sink come into close contact with the inner surface of the countertop.

Important! When installing the sink, press firmly on the entire surface of the structure, which will allow you to remove excess silicone from under the sides of the sink.

  • Using a building level, make sure that the installation is correct, and then proceed to the final stage - the final fastening of the fixing elements;
  • Having completed the activities described above, proceed to connecting communications. To do this, connect the hot and cold water hoses to the water supply system using a sealing gasket.

After securing the hoses, installation activities look like this:

  • Insert a siphon outlet into the sink (it is recommended to give preference to the S-shaped design);
  • Add a hard corner or soft corrugated pipe to the siphon;
  • Lead the pipe from the siphon into the sewer pipe;
  • Check all system connections for leaks.

How to cut a hole in a countertop if it is made of artificial stone?

  • In most cases, countertops made of artificial stone are ordered with holes designed for a specific sink, however, if such conditions were not agreed upon in advance during the ordering process, you can contact specialists who, using special tools, will cut a hole of the required shape and size.
  • If you want to carry out the work yourself, in accordance with the technology described above, instead of a jigsaw, use an angle grinder (grinder), as well as a disc for cutting concrete with diamond coating.

Features of installing corner, round, and granite sinks

The process of inserting a corner and round sink is identical to that described above, however, for both types there are certain installation features.

Features of installing a round sink:

  • Experts recommend making several holes along the cutting line in increments of 7-10 cm, which will facilitate this process;
  • If the sink model you choose does not come with a template for the cutout, make one yourself.

Features of installing a corner sink:

  • Due to the fact that the angle of rotation of the cutting lines is less than 90 degrees, in order to improve the passage of the jigsaw saw, make several holes along the cutting line - in the corner connection of the lines and at a distance of 2-3 mm from it.

Specifics of installing a granite sink:

  • The point is that the design of a granite sink does not imply the presence of holes for installing the drain siphon of a mortise sink and tap. You need to do them yourself using a drill equipped with a special attachment. If you have no experience working with artificial stone equipment, you need to be extremely careful, since the slightest mistake can cause the equipment to become defective.

1 Ergonomics in the kitchen

Food preparation must occur accurately and quickly. This is primarily influenced by the location of kitchen furniture and appliances. In accordance with the principles of ergonomics, kitchen equipment must be placed depending on the order of work, that is, from left to right: refrigerator, dishwasher, sink, stove, and between them work surfaces with cabinets.

The minimum distance between individual devices should be:

  • 40 cm between the refrigerator and the sink, as well as between the sink and the stove,
  • 40 cm between the refrigerator and the stove.

For right-handed people, the most convenient way is to place separate workspaces from right to left. Regarding the sink, this means that the sink should be on the right and the drain on the left.

It is best if the sink is installed near the connection to the water supply and sewerage system.

The drainage system at the sink is made of pipes and siphons with a diameter of 40 and 50 mm.

2 Types of sinks

When choosing a kitchen sink, you should pay attention to the following factors:

  • Capacity. It is determined by the number and size of dishes washed daily.
  • Functionality. It is determined by the nature of the work carried out in the kitchen, the number of additional bowls in the sink and wings for drying. If you have to carry out several personal manipulations in the sink at the same time, then these compartments will be very useful.
  • Ease of use. You must be comfortable standing and working at the sink.
  • Stability and durability. These parameters are determined by the material from which the sink is made.
  • Combination with kitchen interior. The sink should match the style, design, color scheme and, of course, the size of the entire kitchen.

From an installation point of view, there are two main types of sinks:

  • applied to a kitchen cabinet (overhead),
  • built into the kitchen countertop (mortise).

When installing built-in sinks, it is necessary to accurately cut a hole in the countertop for the selected sink. In the case of slabs made of chips, this is not a big problem, but if the tabletop is made of stone, conglomerate or composite, then special cutting tools are necessary. 

MATERIALS USED FOR THE PRODUCTION OF WASHES

Surface-mounted sinks are made of stainless or enameled steel. The two most common options for the appearance of steel sinks are smooth and linen-textured.

Drop-in sinks are made of stainless steel, mineral-epoxy composites and hard artificial materials.

Composite sinks often have an impressive grain structure, reminiscent of polished stone. Sinks made of artificial materials can be completely one-color. This group of kitchen accessories is characterized by an impressive appearance and high resistance to abrasion, scratches, dents and high temperatures.

WASH FORMS

Steel sinks have the widest range of shapes and varieties. In addition to the usual single-bowl sinks, there are sinks with several bowls (usually 2-4), which can be either shallow or deep, with additional side dryers.

3 Installation of an overhead sink

  1. The overhead sink is designed for installation on standard cabinets of standard widths 50, 60, 80 cm. For installation you will need: a tape measure, a screwdriver, 4 wood screws, clamps for the overhead sink 4 pcs, sanitary silicone.
  2. Installation is carried out after installing the cabinet in the chosen place in the kitchen.
  3. We determine how far the sink should hang over the front wall of the cabinet. We subtract the second size from the first and get the distance where the screws should be screwed in.
  4. We screw the screws into the upper part of the cabinet walls - do not screw them all the way, the heads should stick out a little so that they can snap into the holes in the base of the sink.
  5. We insert the sink - the heads of the screws should fit into the round fragments of the holes.
  6. Push the sink towards the wall so that the screws are locked at the end of the base.
  7. Check to see if the sink is inserted tightly; if it moves, remove it and tighten the screws.
  8. We insert it into the cabinet again.
  9. This installation method ensures a stable installation of the sink. If there is a metal splashback on the back of the sink, it should fit snugly against the wall.

4 Installation of a mortise sink

Built-in sinks are designed for installation in kitchen countertops.

The first step is to cut a corresponding hole in the tabletop. In tabletops made of wood and laminated particle boards, we cut out a hole with a wood jigsaw.

For countertops made of stone, conglomerates or composites, special devices are used when cutting holes, so this service must be ordered when purchasing them. It is necessary to indicate the dimensions of the hole and the exact location of installation of the sink. The size of the hole for the sink is obtained by measuring the length and width of the apron on the bottom of the sink.

ATTENTION

The hole should be 0.5 cm wider and longer than the apron.

1. The apron serves for stable installation of the sink. Some sinks come with a sample hole for the sink, which you just need to outline on the countertop.

2. Use a jigsaw to cut a hole in the tabletop.

3. We insert the seal under the sink, which is included with the sink.

ATTENTION

Wooden and laminated countertops must be protected from moisture after cutting the hole. Cover the edges of the cut hole generously with sanitary silicone. After it dries, you can begin installing the sink.

Steel sinks are fixed in the hole using clamps. The upper part of the mount is attached to holes drilled in the sink apron. The lower part rests against the bottom of the tabletop. Both parts are connected with a screw. By tightening the screw, we clamp the fastener and fix the sink in the hole.

4. After centering the sink in the hole, screw the first fastener. We don’t twist it all the way, leaving it a little loose.

5. In the same way, fasten the fastening located opposite.

6. Carefully tighten all the fasteners one by one.

7. The last stage of installation is to tighten all the screws one by one so that the entire contour of the sink rests on the countertop.

8. We install the mounting points of the latches in the hole cut out in the countertop in accordance with the drawing attached to the product by the sink manufacturer.

9. Screw the clamps into the designated places. There can be from 6 to 12 pieces. 

10. We glue self-adhesive sealing tape along the edges of the sink, which, depending on the manufacturer, is included in the kit or sold separately.

11. Fix the sink by carefully inserting it into the hole in the countertop. First, the tabletop will rest against the edge of the apron on the latch tongues.

12. We apply pressure to the sink at the places where the latches are installed. The tabs will snap into the recesses made on the sink apron. After fixing is completed, you can begin installing the mixer and siphon for draining.

ATTENTION

The precise placement of the latches and the precisely cut hole ensure that the sink is properly secured.

The times when the choice of plumbing equipment was minimal are long gone. Modern appliances are very diverse, so even the most experienced home craftsman sometimes does not know how to install a sink in a kitchen countertop. Let's look at the design features and step by step analyze the simplest method.

How to choose a sink for a countertop

In any plumbing store, the buyer will see a large number of the most important ones, but not all of them are suitable for insertion. There are several options:

  • Invoices. They are installed on the cabinet from above and completely cover it. Extremely easy to install. The main disadvantage is the presence of gaps between the furniture and the sink.
  • Mortise. They are inserted into the hole provided in the base. Installation is a little more complicated, but the cuts are reliably protected from moisture.
  • Integrated. Practical combination of sink and work surface. The side can be at different levels: level with the table, below it, etc.
  • Under-table. Integrated only in: hardwood or stone. The edge of the bowl drops below the level of the base.

In practice, mortise devices are most often installed. They are durable and attractive, easy to use. The most popular equipment is made of stainless steel and artificial cast.

Rules for installing a countertop kitchen sink

Before starting installation work, it is worth deciding on the place where the structure will be built. It is usually tied to . However, modern technologies make it possible to embed the device anywhere in the headset. When choosing an installation location, it is advisable to follow these recommendations:

  • The bowl is placed as close to the work area as possible, making it more convenient to cook.
  • The design divides the work surface into two parts: dirty and clean. In the first, food is processed, in the second, they are served.
  • The sink should not be placed near the stove or refrigerator. It's not practical.
  • It is advisable that there be light where the bowl will stand. If necessary, additional lighting is provided.

It is best to choose a deep appliance: you can wash large dishes and other large items in it. The mixer should be low - This combination will give a minimum of splashes during operation.

What to prepare before installation

For high-quality insertion of equipment into the countertop, in addition to the plumbing fixtures, you need to prepare:

  • electric drill and jigsaw;
  • Screwdriver Set;
  • drill bits;
  • pliers;
  • square, pencil and ruler;
  • fasteners, if they are not included with the device;
  • rubber seal;

The sink should be carefully inspected before purchasing. It should not have any dents or scratches if it is made of stainless steel. If not, you need to additionally check for chips. Even small defects in the sink will not allow it to fit tightly to the base, and this is unacceptable. It is optimal that the kit includes good quality fasteners. Otherwise, it is better to purchase them.

Inserting a sink into a countertop: 5 main steps

The equipment installation work is carried out in five steps.

1. Perform marking

Place the table top face up. Unpack the plumbing fixture. It is optimal if the kit includes a template for marking. If not, we will outline the product itself. To do this, turn it over and place it in the place where it will be placed. It is very important that the built-in sink does not prevent the cabinet doors from opening freely. This needs to be checked.

If everything is fine, draw a contour with a simple pencil and get a line on which the edge of the kitchen sink will be located. Now you need to define the inner contour of the bowl. To do this, we measure its side; its length is on average 12 mm. We put the resulting value inward from the intended line and mark the internal border. This is where you will need to cut the hole. To prevent chipping when cutting, apply masking tape along the contour.

2. Working with the hole

We take a drill and put a drill with a diameter of about 10 mm into it. We drill a hole on the previously outlined internal contour. We install a jigsaw file into this hole and carefully cut out an opening for the bowl. If the device has a quadrangular shape, drill holes are made in each of the corners.

The important point is to hold the sawn part. At the moment when the cutout is almost ready, it may fall out and break the laminated coating. Therefore, you need to either hold it from below or secure it with something suitable. These can be clamps, self-tapping screws, etc. Carefully remove the cut piece and clean the hole from fine dust.

3. Process the cut

You need to understand that absolute sealing of the cutting line is impossible. But it’s worth trying to ensure that it is protected as much as possible. Otherwise, this problem area will first become dark, which will indicate the appearance of moisture inside the wood board. Then pockets of mold may form, and the foundation will become unusable.

We start with sanding. We clean the cut with fine sandpaper, getting rid of all irregularities, and removing dust. Then we take the sealant and apply it to the cleaned surface. Considering that the area will not be noticeable, you can take the usual white composition. For ease of application, we use a small spatula; if you don’t have one, you can apply the product with your finger. Carefully smooth the sealant so that it covers the entire cut with a thick, smooth layer.

4. Preparing the sink

Before installing the equipment, it is necessary to apply sealing tape to it. We turn the bowl over and determine the place where the seal will be located. We take the rubber band that should be included in the delivery kit, and use a rag soaked in gasoline or solvent to degrease it.

Apply a continuous layer to the sealant. There should not be too much of it so that it does not come out during the gluing process. Apply the tape to the edge of the sink and press until the composition sets. It may be that the kit comes with a self-adhesive seal. It's easier to work with. You need to remove the protective strip and stick on the insulator.

5. Attaching the sink to the countertop

Apply a layer of sealant between the side and the seal. Since there is a small chance that a strip of the composition will be visible, you can choose a mixture that matches the color. For example, black or any other. Transparent sealant is a universal solution.

Then we place the fastenings on the back side of the bowl so that they are not fully secured. Now we insert the sink into the base. We begin the installation from the area where the mixer will be mounted.

We tilt the bowl and carefully lower it into the hole, putting the fragment in place. Next, we gradually install the structure so that the sides fit on the inside of the base. To ensure that the bowl fits tightly, carefully press it, moving around the perimeter of the equipment. In this case, excess sealant may protrude from under the device. We immediately remove them with a rag. After hardening, it will not be possible to do this unnoticed. We carry out the installation by tightening the fasteners.

At this point, the installation of the sink can be considered complete. All that remains is to connect it to the sewerage system, put it in place and connect it to the water supply pipeline. It cannot be said that installing mortise equipment is very simple. However, if you wish, you can do it yourself. Accuracy, patience and strict adherence to instructions guarantee a good result.

  • Material prepared by: Inna Yasinovskaya