How to Fit a Bathroom Sink

Has it been a while since you've had to fit a bathroom sink or is this your first basin installation? Either way, this handy 8 step guide will show you how to fit a sink in no time at all!

A wobbly, leaking sink in your bathroom is the last thing you need. Whether you’re replacing an old basin or installing from scratch, this straightforward, step-by-step guide will help you get the job done quickly, correctly, and without stress. Let’s get started.

Fitting a Bathroom Sink: The Quick Steps

Follow our 8 simple steps to fit your bathroom sink efficiently.

Quick Installation Steps:

• Turn off the water supply – Shut off isolation valves or turn off the mains.
• Position and mark the sink – Find the centre, check the level, and mark fixing points.
• Install the taps – Secure taps in place and connect flexible pipes.
• Fit the waste and trap – Insert the waste, seal it with silicone, and attach the trap.
• Secure the sink – Fix the basin to the wall and align it with the pedestal.
• Connect the water pipes – Attach hot and cold inlets to the taps.
• Turn the water back on – Check for leaks and ensure everything is working.
• Seal around the basin – Apply silicone for a clean, watertight finish.

Want a visual walkthrough? Watch our step-by-step video guide below.

What You’ll Need

Before you start, gather these essential tools for fitting your bathroom sink:

• Silicone sealant
• Pliers & adjustable spanner
• Screwdrivers & plumbing sockets
• Pencil, drill & spirit level
• Tape measure
• Bucket & old sheet (for spills)

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Install a Bathroom Sink

Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply

• Locate the isolation valves under the sink and turn them off.
• If your taps don’t have isolation valves, shut off the water at the mains.
• Open the taps to drain any remaining water.

Step 2: Position and Mark the Sink

• Find the centre using a spirit level and mark it on both the wall and floor.
• Place the pedestal and basin in position, ensuring they are level.
• Mark the basin outline and fixing holes on the wall.

If your pedestal has fixing holes for the floor, mark those too.

Step 3: Install the Taps

• Insert the tap into the pre-drilled hole in the basin.
• Secure it underneath with the washer and nut.
• Connect the flexible tap connectors or copper pipes.

Step 4: Fit the Waste and Trap

• Insert the waste into the plughole, aligning overflow holes if necessary.
• Apply silicone around the thread to prevent leaks.
• Tighten the washer and nut.

Connect the waste trap:

• Wall-mounted waste pipes → Use a P-trap.
• Floor waste pipes → Use a straight trap.

Step 5: Secure the Sink to the Wall

• Drill holes for the fixing bolts – use masking tape on tiles to prevent slipping.
• Insert wall plugs and fix the bolts.
• Carefully position the basin onto the pedestal and secure it using the provided fixings.

Step 6: Connect the Water Pipes

• Attach the hot and cold inlets to the taps.
• Use compression fittings or push-fit connectors to secure the connection.

Step 7: Turn the Water Back On

• Slowly turn on the isolation valves or mains water supply.
• Check the taps for proper function and inspect for any leaks.

Step 8: Seal Around the Basin

• Apply a thin, even bead of silicone where the basin meets the wall.
• Use masking tape for a clean, straight edge.
• Smooth the seal with a damp finger or sealant tool.

Watch the Installation in Action

See these steps in action with our step-by-step video tutorial below.

Additional Tips for a Smooth Installation

Check the wall type:

Masonry walls → Support all basin types.

Stud walls → May need reinforcement for wall-hung basins.

Choose the right basin height:

• Standard: 85 cm from floor to basin rim.
• Children: Lower for easy access.
• Tall adults: Raise slightly for comfort.
• Accessibility needs? Adjust accordingly.

Time required:

• Replacing an existing basin? Around 2 hours.
• Installing from scratch? Allow up to 5 hours.

What’s Next?

Now that your new basin is installed, why stop there? Elevate your DIY game with our expert guides:

• Explore More DIY Installation Guides – Toilets, showers, taps, and more.
• Discover Bathroom Design Inspiration – Latest trends and styling ideas.
• Browse Our Bathroom Buying Guides – Expert tips for making the right choices.

If this guide helped, share it with a friend who might need it!