Home & Design

Farm Facts: Is Installing a Farmhouse Sink Easy?

Adding character to a kitchen through floor tiles

Are you thinking about installing a farmhouse sink but not sure if it’s easy to do? Installing a 30″ stainless steel farmhouse sink can add instant character to your kitchen and your home, there are a few factors you should consider and ways you can prepare.

Here’s what you need to know before you think about adding farmhouse sinks to your home.

Pre-Installation Tips

Farmhouse sinks, otherwise known as farmhouse apron sinks, are popular additions. Due to their popularity among homeowners, it’s best to order your sink early. They can often go on backorder, which can last between 4-6 weeks.

Order early to ensure your contractor schedule lines up with the delivery of your sink.

Lastly, farmhouse sinks can be quite heavy. Stone and concrete sinks can weigh around 300 pounds when they’re filled with water. That’s why you need to make sure your base cabinets can hold up to the weight.

You may need to order new base cabinets or a support frame to support the weight. You should also have contractors install the sink or find additional assistance to lift it.

Drop-in vs. Under-Mount

Certain styles of farmhouse sinks can drop into and over your countertop; however, under-mount sinks are more common.

Drop-in styles cover the edges of your countertop, covering the cutout hole. Under-mount sinks have the practical design of sitting lower, allowing you to wipe debris right into the sink.

Measure Your Base Cabinet

Check with the manufacturer’s website to look for their recommendation on the minimum size base cabinet for a sink style. In general, this number is usually three inches longer than the sink length.

Sink cabinets are generally 30 inches or 36 inches wide. You can find farmhouse sinks for both sizes.

Use the Template

Once the sink arrives, make sure you unpack it and look it over for any damage.

Take out the template that comes with your sink and consult the directions. It will direct you on how to support the sink and also how to cut the counter if that’s necessary. The manufacturer’s instructions may include further steps or requirements.

You’ll need certain tools for installation:

  • Hacksaw
  • Drill
  • Framing square
  • Level
  • Pencil
  • Safety goggles
  • Screws
  • Braces
  • Silicone sealant

View here for more instructions on which tools you should use when installing farmhouse sinks. Have these tools on hand and ensure you’re familiar with using them.

Installation

You can adjust the opening by sanding or adding additional filler strips. Position the sink and make sure it’s centered. Use a level to make sure it’s straight on all sides. You can use shims if necessary.

Apply sealant between the cabinet and sink. Attach all plumbing fixtures and connect the pipes.

Install the countertop and adjust it as necessary. Use sealant along the edges of the sink. Now you can install your cabinet frames and doors or use a curtain to cover the area below your new sink.

Enjoy Your New Farmhouse Sink

Installing a farmhouse sink can be a simple process, if you know how to prepare for the installation process, have the right tools on hand, and understand how to measure and prepare your base cabinets. Use these tips to make the process easier.

Are you looking for more home improvement advice? Check out our home and design section.

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