Whether you are building a new kitchen or remodeling it, you should consider to install a farmhouse sink. Farmhouse sinks stick out in front of the cupboard they’re placed in and are generally made with porcelain or some type of metal.
Farmhouse sink installation can involve a few extra steps because of the size and weight of these units. A sink of this variety requires extra support from underneath in order to maximize its stability over time. That means cabinet space beneath the sink is often occupied by a plywood support structure on which the sink rests.
Read our complete guide about how to install a fireclay farmhouse sink.
Table of Contents
8 Steps to Install a Farmhouse Sink:
Tools Required:
- Silicone putty
- Putty knife
- Brackets
- Electric drill
- Plywood
- Measuring tape
- Pencil or pen
- Nails
- Hammer
- A level
- A helper
Note: Always turn off main water supply before installing a sink.
Step 1: Measure Out the Area
The typical farmhouse sink installation will require a countertop that has been completely cut away to make room for the sink. Usually this will be done before you are ready to install.
Measure the width of your sink and mark where the rim of the sink will meet the underside of the countertop. Also measure the height of your sink at its highest point. Usually this will be at the front of the sink where the apron is. This measurement is necessary for when you build the support underneath or later install a lower cabinet.
Also measure the depth of your sink. Make sure the sink does not protrude from the outer edge of the countertop. All edges should be flush with the countertop.
Step 2: Install Plywood Supports
After measuring, you will want to prepare the support structure under your sink. These structures can range from a full on box to simple L-frames that buttress your sink.
Cut your plywood planks to the length and width of the cabinet below. Place the boards at right angles to where your sink will sit. Be sure these planks are heavy enough to support the weight of the sink without bowing. Nail them into the wall or the walls of the surrounding cabinet. Nail at the ends of each board and in the middle.
For further details, refer to the steps mentioned later in this guide.
Step 3: Position Sink into Place
Most fireclay farmhouse sinks are heavier in weight than stainless steel farmhouse sinks. Depending on how large or heavy your sink is, you may need a helper to assist with this step. After you have prepared the area, lift your sink up and position it into place. The edges of the sink should be even with the edges of your countertop. Thanks to your earlier measurements, the sink should sit flush with the support structure below and be held firmly.
Use your leveling tool to make sure that everything is even and there are no unexpected tilts.
Step 4: Caulk and Seal Edges
Squeeze a steady bead of silicone putty around the rim of your sink. You can also place a bead along the underside of the countertop where it will meet the sink rim. Be generous with your silicone, as this will create a watertight seal that will prevent mold and leaks.
Press the sink into place. Allow this material to dry for up to 24 hours before cleaning up the edges. You can take a putty knife and scrape away any excess silicone that may have bubbled out from where the sink and counter was joined.
Step 5: Place Brackets
Most apron sink installation guides that accompany sinks of this type also include industrial brackets that screw into the wall or surround cabinets. These brackets offer extra support and take some of the burden off the plywood frame you built earlier.
Using at least four brackets, position them into place so that one flange supports the bottom of the sink. The other flange should be flush with the wall or nearby cabinet wall. Drill screws to attach these brackets to the wall.
You may need your helper to hold the sink in place while you position the brackets.
Step 6: Insert Faucet Fixtures
Next, take the faucet for your farmhouse sink you have chosen. If you have two-handled faucet fixture where the handles are separate from the faucet spout, gather these now. Insert them into the appropriate holes.
Also insert the drain. Many drain assemblies come packed with a sink, though some need to be purchased separately. Seal the drain assembly with more silicone putty to create a waterproof seal where the edges of the drain meet the sink’s bottom.
Step 7: Connect Plumbing
Always connect your drain line first. Be sure there are no air pockets or loose fittings.
Connect your faucet and handles to the appropriate water sources. Double check the hot and cold connections hook up to the corresponding handles. You have a single-handle faucet, follow the instructions provided with the faucet to properly attach the water lines.
Final Step
Turn on the main water source to check for any leaks or problem areas. If everything looks good, your farmhouse sink installation is complete.
Installing a Farmhouse Sink: Visual Guide
How to Support a Farmhouse Sink
When doing any apron sink installation, a support must be constructed under the sink. These sinks are generally heavier and bulkier than the average sink. Therefore, they need to have adequate support from below.
Tools Needed:
- 10 uncut boards of plywood, or 10 2 inch x 4 inch wood planks
- Long wood nails
- Large hammer
- Measuring tape
- Marker or pencil
- Handsaw or electric saw
- Sandpaper (optional)
Step One: Measure Your Boards
Since this structure is designed to last, you want to make sure that each board will sit tightly against the wall and lower cabinet area. Measure the inner width of the area beneath the sink and mark appropriately. Be sure to mark the wall so you remember where to place them later.
Take these measurements and transfer them to your planks. Mark where you will need to cut them. Remember, measure twice and cut once. Getting an accurate measurement can save you a lot of time.
Step Two: Cut to Size and Sand
Using a handsaw or an electric saw, make even, straight cuts. Before you nail into place, place your boards against the wall and make sure they fit snugly. Be conservative when cutting. You can always cut more off, but it’s difficult to add on after you have removed too much of the plank.
If you wish, you can sand the edges of the boards. This optional step can prevent any splinters or scratches on the inner cabinetry.
Step Three: Nail Boards into Place
Make sure your nails are strong and long. Position four boards as runners along the wall. Place a board in the middle and nail it to the support rails.
These planks will be holding a substantial amount of weight, so they should be positioned perpendicular to one another and to the wall. The nails should be large enough to penetrate through the board and into the wall stud. Any farmhouse sink installation will be better for having the boards securely nailed.
Use your leveling tool to make sure the finished structure is completely level.
Final Thought
Nothing makes rustic décor look upscale like a farmhouse sink. This type of sink can provide you with traditional sensibility while giving you clean lines. It will prove their usefulness every day with its generous size and interior proportions.
Knowing how to support a farmhouse sink is integral to its installation. A wooden support system that prevents your sink from moving or falling is crucial to making it operate like it should.
Always remember to seal around all the edges to prevent any leakage or water seepage. Brackets can also come in handy for extra security. You can make your kitchen functional by installing a right farmhouse sink.
