How to Install a Vessel Sink

Loosen the nuts to remove the drain pipes and disconnect the water lines from the valves. Use a small bucket to catch water in the pipes.

Cut the sealant along the backsplash. Remove the backsplash if it’s a separate piece from the vanity top. If your vanity is secured to the wall with screws, removal will be easier if you take off the vanity top.

Separate the top from the vanity with a putty knife. Lift it off and back out the screws securing the vanity to the wall. The vanity should now pull out.

Use a tape measure to transfer the plumbing locations from the wall to the back of the vanity. Then use a hole saw to cut an opening a little bit larger than the size of the pipes.

For easier installation, remove the doors and drawers.

Position the vanity so that the holes on the back side fit over the pipes in the wall. Then check that it's level. Use shims to adjust. Some vanities have adjustable feet to help with leveling.

Drill pilot holes through the vanity back into the studs, and secure the vanity to the wall with screws. If you can’t line up the holes with studs, use wall anchors for your wall type.

Learn how to use drywall anchors.
Learn how to drill through tile.

Attach the faucet on the vanity top before installing the top on the vanity. Leave the faucet loose to make adjustments after the sink is installed.

Apply silicone caulk or adhesive to the top of the vanity and position the vanity top in place. Make sure it’s even on the left and right.

Attach the backsplash with adhesive. Then caulk along the joints and let it dry following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Apply a bead of clear silicone caulk to the bottom of the vessel. Position it over the hole on the vanity top. Then assemble the drain, but don’t overtighten.

After the sealant has dried, install the rest of the plumbing. You might have to cut the tailpiece with a hacksaw to make it fit. When the plumbing is installed, adjust the faucet as needed.

Add the vanity hardware.