## Do-It-Yourself Kitchen Sink Replacement
Replacing a kitchen sink is a project that can be tackled by most do-it-yourselfers with a few basic tools and some plumbing knowledge. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can save yourself the cost of hiring a plumber.
### Tools and Materials Needed
– Adjustable wrench
– Basin wrench
– Channel-lock pliers
– Hacksaw
– Putty knife
– Plumber’s putty
– Silicone caulk
– New kitchen sink
– New faucet (if desired)
– Shut-off valves (if not already installed)
### Safety Precautions
Before you begin, be sure to take the following safety precautions:
– Turn off the water supply to the sink.
– Wear safety glasses and gloves.
– If you are not comfortable working with plumbing, it is best to call a plumber.
### Step 1: Remove the Old Sink
1. Use the basin wrench to loosen the nuts that hold the faucet in place.
2. Remove the faucet and set it aside.
3. Use the adjustable wrench to loosen the nuts that hold the water supply lines to the sink.
4. Disconnect the water supply lines and set them aside.
5. Use the putty knife to cut around the old sink’s putty seal.
6. Carefully lift the old sink out of the countertop.
### Step 2: Prepare the New Sink
1. Apply a bead of silicone caulk around the rim of the new sink.
2. Place the new sink in the countertop and press down firmly to seat it.
3. Wipe away any excess silicone caulk.
### Step 3: Install the New Faucet
1. Insert the faucet into the hole in the sink.
2. Thread the nuts onto the faucet and tighten them with the basin wrench.
3. Connect the water supply lines to the faucet and tighten the nuts with the adjustable wrench.
### Step 4: Reconnect the Water Supply
1. Turn on the water supply and check for leaks.
2. If there are any leaks, tighten the nuts on the water supply lines or the faucet until the leaks stop.
### Step 5: Finish Up
1. Apply a bead of silicone caulk around the edge of the sink where it meets the countertop.
2. Wipe away any excess silicone caulk.
3. Allow the silicone caulk to dry completely before using the sink.
### Tips
– If your sink is made of cast iron, it will be very heavy. Be sure to get help lifting it.
– If you are not sure how to turn off the water supply to your sink, consult a plumber.
– Be careful not to overtighten the nuts on the water supply lines or the faucet.
– Allow the silicone caulk to dry completely before using the sink.
### Troubleshooting
– If you have a leak after installing the new sink, tighten the nuts on the water supply lines or the faucet until the leak stops.
– If you cannot get the old sink out of the countertop, use a hacksaw to cut it into smaller pieces.
– If you are having trouble installing the new faucet, consult the manufacturer’s instructions.