The bathroom is one of the busiest and most overworked spaces in your home and this means that every now and again it could do with a makeover to keep things fresh and in good condition.
Installing a new vanity and sink can provide that transformation that you are looking for and give your bathroom a welcome lift in an instant. Bathrooms are prone to pipe leaks, flooding and molds, which of course, would require the help of local water and flood restoration professionals to get it fixed first.
Here are some tips and insights to help you give your bathroom an instant makeover. Including a simple step by step guide for removing your old unit and fitting a replacement.
Don’t reinvent the wheel
If you are planning to do the job yourself one of the simplest but most important tips to remember is that for the easiest installation possible it would be a good idea to find a vanity and sink that has the same dimensions as your old ones.
You really don’t want to be trying to make adjustments to the pipework in order to accommodate a new unit, and you will slash the amount of time you need to complete the task when you manage to achieve a straightforward new for old swap.
Measure Twice, Install Once
Even if you’re putting in a vanity and sink that are the same size as the old ones, it’s really important to measure the space accurately. Measure how wide, deep, and tall the area is where the new vanity will go. Then, compare these measurements to the size of the new vanity you want to use.
Make sure the new vanity can fit through doorways and around any tight corners as you bring it into the bathroom. It’s better to find out about any problems before you start installing everything. If you’re not sure or don’t have the right tools, you can always hire a plumbing company, like these San Diego plumbing repair companies, to help with installing your sink. They usually have the experience and skills to do it right.
Getting started
In order to tackle the job with confidence and to make the task as easy as possible you might want to see here for a list of tools, including adjustable spanners and wrenches, that you will need for the project.
Before you do any sort of work on your bathroom you will need to ensure that the water supply is turned off completely. You can isolate the water supply locally if there is a valve under the sink, but a good added precaution would be to turn off the water at the main valve, then turn on the faucet to clear any water pressure left in the lines and confirm that the water is now off.
Bucket at the ready
It’s time to dismantle the old unit and get ready for the new one, so you will need a bucket to hand for when you loosen the slip nut at the top of the P-trap.
Position the bucket underneath to catch any water left in the trap and then start to disconnect the water supply lines. This will probably involve using a wrench to work them loose and catch any water left in the lines with your bucket.
Clear the Area
Once you’ve turned off the water supply, clear the area around the vanity to give yourself plenty of room to work. Remove any items stored in or on the vanity, as well as any decorative items on the walls or countertops nearby.
Lay down drop cloths or old towels to protect the floor from any water spills or debris.
Removing the sink
You will need a utility knife to cut the sealant along the backsplash and gently work it free by tugging with moderate force so that it comes away from the wall.
Having freed the sink and disconnected all the fittings you can now remove the sink top from the vanity base. How your sink is secured to the vanity will vary, so you might encounter screws, glue, or a combination of the two.
If you are replacing the vanity and the sink or plan to reuse one or the other alongside your new fitting, take care to chisel and apply force on the inside where any potential damage won’t be seen.
Prepping for the New Vanity
Before diving into the installation of your new vanity, it’s crucial to properly prepare the designated area to ensure a seamless and durable outcome. Start by thoroughly examining the wall behind where the vanity will be positioned, addressing any imperfections, damages, or uneven surfaces. Repairing these issues now will prevent future complications and ensure a stable foundation for your vanity.
For surface-mounted vanities, mark the precise locations on the wall where the mounting hardware will be installed. Accurate marking ensures proper alignment and secure attachment of the vanity to the wall. Conversely, if you’re opting for a freestanding vanity, take the time to check the levelness of the floor. Any discrepancies should be promptly addressed through adjustments or leveling techniques to guarantee stability and prevent wobbling or uneven weight distribution.
Undertaking these preparatory steps can indeed be a daunting task for some individuals. In such cases, seeking the expertise of a professional plumber can provide invaluable assistance and peace of mind. Plumbing professionals, like those available at EmergencyPlumberAurora.com, possess the knowledge, skills, and specialized tools required to execute these preparations efficiently and effectively. By enlisting their services, you can ensure that your vanity installation proceeds smoothly and meets the highest standards of craftsmanship and durability.
Connecting the New Sink
After successfully installing the new vanity, the next step in the process is to proceed with installing the sink. Adhering to the manufacturer’s instructions is paramount during this phase to ensure proper and secure attachment of the sink to the vanity. Whether it involves using screws, adhesive, or a mounting ring, following the provided guidelines guarantees a stable and reliable installation.
Once the sink is securely in place, attention should turn to reconnecting the water supply lines and the P-trap. It’s essential to use new washers and plumber’s putty where necessary to create watertight seals and prevent leaks. Careful attention to detail during this step is crucial, as any loose connections or inadequate sealing can result in water damage and costly repairs down the line.
Before finalizing the installation, it’s advisable to double-check all connections thoroughly for leaks. This includes inspecting the water supply lines, the P-trap, and any joints or fittings for signs of moisture or dripping. Conducting a comprehensive leak test ensures that any potential issues are identified and addressed promptly, safeguarding against water damage and ensuring the longevity of your newly installed sink.
By diligently following these steps and paying close attention to detail throughout the installation process, you can achieve a successful and trouble-free sink installation that enhances both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your bathroom space.