## Installing a Topmount Kitchen Sink
### Materials You’ll Need
– Topmount kitchen sink
– Sink cutout template (provided with sink)
– Pencil or marking tool
– Jigsaw or reciprocating saw
– Caulk gun
– Silicone caulk
– Painter’s tape
– Level
– Tape measure
– Plumber’s putty or plumber’s tape
### Step 1: Measure and Mark the Countertop
– Place the sink cutout template on the countertop where you want the sink to be installed.
– Trace the outline of the template onto the countertop with a pencil or marking tool.
– Make sure the outline is centered and level.
### Step 2: Cut the Countertop
– Put on safety glasses and earplugs.
– Use a jigsaw or reciprocating saw to cut along the outline you traced in Step 1.
– Cut slowly and carefully, following the line as closely as possible.
### Step 3: Clean the Cutout
– Remove any sawdust or debris from the cutout using a vacuum cleaner or damp cloth.
– Wipe down the inside edges of the cutout with rubbing alcohol to remove any grease or dirt.
### Step 4: Apply Caulk to the Sink Flange
– Use a caulk gun to apply a bead of silicone caulk around the bottom edge of the sink flange.
– Smooth out the caulk with your finger or a caulking tool.
### Step 5: Position the Sink in the Cutout
– Lift the sink into the cutout and center it over the hole.
– Press down on the sink to set it in place.
### Step 6: Secure the Sink
– Use painter’s tape to hold the sink in place while you secure it with screws.
– Drill pilot holes through the sink flange and into the countertop.
– Drive screws through the pilot holes and tighten them securely.
### Step 7: Remove the Painter’s Tape
– Once the sink is secure, remove the painter’s tape.
### Step 8: Caulk Around the Sink
– Use a caulk gun to apply a bead of silicone caulk around the seam between the sink and the countertop.
– Smooth out the caulk with your finger or a caulking tool.
### Step 9: Let the Caulk Cure
– Allow the caulk to cure for at least 24 hours before using the sink.
### Step 10: Install the Drain and Faucet
– Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install the drain and faucet.
### Tips
– If you are not comfortable cutting the countertop yourself, you can hire a professional countertop installer.
– Use a sharp blade in your jigsaw or reciprocating saw to make a clean cut.
– Apply a generous amount of caulk to the sink flange and around the seam between the sink and the countertop.
– Allow the caulk to cure completely before using the sink to prevent leaks.
### Troubleshooting
– **The sink does not fit in the cutout.** Check to make sure that the cutout is the correct size and shape for the sink. If it is not, you will need to cut the cutout larger or smaller to fit the sink.
– **The sink is not level.** Use a level to check the sink and make any necessary adjustments to the screws that secure it to the countertop.
– **The sink is leaking.** Check the caulk around the sink flange and the seam between the sink and the countertop. If the caulk is damaged or missing, it will need to be replaced.