Most people don’t want to even try with DIY bathroom sink installation and the immediately call a plumber but the truth is that it’s easier than ever. Every bathroom sink you buy at your home improvement store or online  will come with instruction manual and easy template instructions. The majority of bathroom sink already have basic tools for sink installation. We will explain you the basics of bathroom sink installation and you will se how easy it really is.

Sink Installation – what you have to know

There are three popular styles of single sink installations for your bathroom: countertop sinks, undermount sinks and wall mounted sinks Keep in mind that no matter which bathroom sink installation you initiate, you will have to deal with bathroom cleaning after that.

Countertop Bathroom Sink Installation:

Most bathroom cabinets or bathroom vanities are already prepared for sink installations and you don’t have to cut the hole for the sink. In case you’re remodeling your bathroom and want to use your old cabinet or vanity, we covered the cutting part also. If you want to get yourself a new bathroom vanity also then be sure to check our article on How to choose a bathroom vanity. Let’s get started with bathroom sink installation of countertop bathroom sink.

  • follow the manufacturer’s template instruction.
  • simply turn the bowl upside down on the countertop and trace its outline that includes a “cut line”.
  • drill a starter hole within the cut line and begin cutting along the line.
  • place plumber’s putty around the bottom edge of the lip of the bowl and press it into your drain hole.
  • attach the gasket, washer, lock nut, and tailpiece.
  • remove excess putty.
  • apply sealant around the sink rim, then turn the sink over and align it.
  • press firmly around the sink’s lip. After the adhesive dries, apply a small amount of latex caulk around the edge and smooth it in.
  • affix the faucets.
  • perform thorough bathroom cleaning in order to get an idea of whether your new bathroom sink fits the place. If any corrections are needed, they should become evident when your cleaning service is done and there are no leftover materials to block your inspection.

Undermount Bathroom Sink Installation:

If you are installing a bathroom sink on your old cabinet or vanity you must make the cute wide as the inner rim of the bowl. If you cut out the hole big as the outer rim you will not be able to install the sink.

  • follow the manufacturer’s template instructions.
  • apply a small amount of silicone caulk or sealant around the edge of the sink bowl.
  • flip the sink bowl over and attach it to the bottom of the countertop.
  • turn the sink bowl back over carefully and position it in place with screws that are provided in your kit.
  • clean up excess sealant or caulk now, as you don’t want to bother with this task later on. Be thorough in your efforts and you be spared the need for stain removal later on. Of course, such cleaning service is important for more reasons than just to save you from some trouble. It is needed in order to conclude the installation process.
  • hook up the drain and supply lines.

Wall-mounted bathroom sink installation:

Wall mounted bathroom sinks are not connected to your countertop or vanity and they are even easier to install. Be sure to first put reinforcement behind the drywall if you are installing the sink to the drywall because drywall can’t withstand the weight of the bathroom sink.

  • follow the manufacturer’s template instructions.
  • position the mounting plate or the sink on the wall and mark the wall through the holes for the screws.
  • for mounting on drywall remove the piece of the drywall and install 2 by 6 on between wall studs.
  • drill the holes for the screws and install appropriate anchors in the wall.
  • install the faucet, drain and pop-up assemblies on the sink.
  • use lag screws or other fasteners for securing the sink on wall.
  • hook up the drain and supply lines.
  • seal the joint with the wall with putty or silicone.


Whatever type of bathroom sink you choose be sure to use high quality plumbers putty (like Hercules Plumbers Putty) and a high quality silicone (like Dap Silicone). Remember that you’ll need a Caulking gun to apply the silicone but don’t worry they’re really cheap and easy to use.

Bathroom sinks are available in a variety of styles, colors, and materials, including cast iron, china, metal, glass, stone, crystal, and other customized styles. Whatever kind of material you choose and whatever type of bathroom sink you choose, remember that you can install the sink and do the most of bathroom installations yourself and spend the money for the plumber on a nice decoration for your remodeled bathroom!