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Install a Pedestal Sink
Create a more open look for your bathroom by installing an affordable, stylish pedestal sink. Pedestal sinks take up much less space than a traditional sink and vanity. It's a good idea to have a helper for this project, since the sinks can be a little heavy, but two people should be able to install the sink in a day.
Tools & Materials
Use this checklist when you go to the store and purchase your items.
Basic Considerations for Your Pedestal Sink
Pedestal sinks come in two pieces-the stand (pedestal) and the sink itself. The plumbing fits inside the pedestal, which is secured to the floor. The sink is mounted to the wall and also rests on the pedestal stand.
Before you decide to purchase, here are some things to think about:
- Installing one is a little more difficult than a regular drop-in or wall-mount lavatory. Fitting the plumbing inside the pedestal can be close work. Also, matching the sink to the proper level on the wall and the exact height of the pedestal requires precise measurements.
- Decide whether you can live without the storage space of a vanity cabinet. Remember, to make room for the new ped lav, the counter top and cabinet are going away. Shelving or recessed medicine cabinets can compensate for some lost cabinet space.
- If you are removing an old vanity, the floor and wall will probably require some attention, and the water supply lines may have to be relocated. To install, first turn off the water supply and remove the old fixtures.
Installing the Sink
Step 1
While you are updating your sink, it's a good time to do a makeover on the walls and floor. The sink mounts to the wall directly or onto a bracket provided by the manufacturer. The alignment of the sink mounting holes may not be a perfect fit with the existing wall studs. Therefore, you will need to reinforce the wall to bear the weight of the sink. Measure up from the floor the height specified by the manufacturer (average heights range from 29" to 33"). Determine where the center of the sink will be on the wall.
Step 2
Locate the wall studs on both sides. Cut out a section of the wall between the studs to fit a support board. Be careful not to cut any pipes or wiring in the wall. Use a 2x6, 2x8, or 2x10, depending on the sink's installation instructions. Attach the support board flush with the studs. Align the sink with the support board, mark and drill into the new support. Temporarily mount the sink to ensure that it is level. Afterwards, set the sink aside.
Step 3
If the water supply lines must be moved to accommodate the position of the pedestal, do so at this time. In some cases, you may not be able to conceal all of the supply lines inside of the pedestal. If they must show, think about selecting chrome or brass fittings to match your faucet.
Step 4
Place the pedestal in position on the floor and mark where it will be mounted. Some pedestals must be bolted into the floor, while others require only caulking. Carefully set the sink on top of the pedestal to confirm proper height and alignment. When everything is marked, set the sink and pedestal aside and drill the floor holes, if needed. The pedestal can now be secured to the floor.
Step 5
Your choices will be single-hole, 4" centerset, or 8" wide centerspread. Hook up the faucet, drain assembly, and drain plug lift rod, to the sink before mounting on the pedestal. Attach the sink to the wall with the bolts provided. Do not over-tighten, you could crack the porcelain.
Now attach the water supply lines and the drain assembly. Turn the water on and check for leaks.
Project Information
- Skill Level: Intermediate
*Time and Cost are estimated.