A kitchen sink is the focal point of every kitchen, the reason why almost every home has one. It also adds beauty to the kitchen and makes food prep relatively easy.
If you spend a lot of time in the kitchen, a farmhouse sink is the model for you. The fixture makes your way around the space easier since you won’t have to bend your back to reach it.
A farmhouse sink is spacious and allows enough space for you to clean your large pots and pans.
However, before you install the sink, there are some important things that you need to consider. The key part is the countertop.
Can you install a farmhouse sink in existing granite countertop? The answer is a big YES! You can install a new farmhouse sink in existing granite countertop.
Granite is durable enough to support the weight of a farmhouse sink. It also ranks among the most stylish countertops you can find.
To install the apron front sink, you just need the right tools and materials. In fact, with excellent DIY skills, you don’t need to hire a professional to get the job done.
Tips Before Installing Your Farmhouse Sink
- Order your sink on time
Since you don’t want to face the problem of not having the sink when the plumber arrives, order it on time.
- Inspect the sink
After receiving the sink, unpack it and check for defects. This way, you can tell whether it’s the exact model you ordered for.
Inspecting the sink also lets you know whether it has defects.
- Check the manufacturer’s guide.
Ensure that you go through the manufacturer’s instructions and safety instructions on installing your new farmhouse sink.
The guide makes the installation process easier.
How to Install Your New Farmhouse Sink in Existing Granite Countertop
Tools and Materials You’ll Require:
- A new farmhouse sink
- A pair of protective goggles
- Measuring tools
- Tile saw
- Reciprocating saw, or hand saw
- Painters tape
- Pencil or marker
- Piece of cardboard
- Wooden blocks
- Screws
- Power drill
The Installation Process
- Step 1: Remove the old sink
To make room for the new farmhouse sink, you have to remove the old one. Do this by carefully cutting through the silicone around the edge of the sink and disconnecting the plumbing pipes.
If you can get a pair of helping hands, the better. The process will be easier for you with someone to hand you the tools.
- Step 2: Cut the granite
The process of cutting the granite is a messy one. At this point, you need to wear your protective goggles and dust masks.
Measure the new sink and trace an outline on a piece of cardboard to ensure the right fit. Using painter’s tape, mark the areas for the cutout.
With your tile saw, cut the granite along a straight line. This should be easy since a tile saw comes with a guide that helps you learn how to keep your cuts straight.
The painter’s tape also helps you move the saw in a straight line.
- Step 3: Remove the cabinet front
To install the sink, you must also adjust the front of the cabinet. Follow the template that comes with the sink for the best results.
Trace out the template and use a jigsaw to cut the outline. If you fear that you might err on your cutting, saw inside the lines and sand the excess.
- Step 4: Cut the supporting frames
If your cabinet doesn’t have enough support to hold the new farmhouse sink, get some support frames ready for that.
Cut the wooden bars according to your measured sizes. Mark the bottom with a pencil and place the bars in their right positions.
Once you are sure that everything fits, use the construction adhesive to glue the vertical and horizontal supports. For a tight fit, secure them with screws.
- Step 5: Install the sink
And now, it’s time to check whether the new sink fits or not. Let someone assist you in lifting the sink and carefully place it in the cutout space.
Double-check to ensure that everything is straight and level since you don’t want to encounter problems when using the sink later.
Apply caulking and let it sink before you reinstall the plumbing.
- Step 6: Connect the plumbing
After fitting the sink, it’s time to connect the plumbing lines. This should take just a few minutes since you only need to connect the pipes and the faucet.
Read also: Can You Install an Undermount Sink with Laminate Countertops
Conclusion
Installing a farmhouse sink in an existing granite countertop is possible(source). And the good news is that it isn’t necessarily expensive, especially if doing it yourself.
A farmhouse sink makes a decorative and convenient addition to any kitchen. The fact that you already have an existing countertop in place shouldn’t deter you from installing this masterpiece in your home.