Removing a sink of any kind can be a technical task. The procedure needs an expert plumber to handle the removal.
If you know the complexities regarding removing and installing the undermount sink, you can take the process yourself.
The first step in eliminating sinks of any kind is shutting off the water connection.
The hardest thing that can happen to you while removing the sink is its attachment to the stone countertop.
Although fixation is rare, if it exists, it can be challenging. A sink that is firmly adhered to the mount needs extra care and equipment for removal.
If you are planning to remove the sink, then there are steps that can help you out with your work:
Materials
Before removing the undermount sink, ensure that you have all the essential gadgets to complete the job. The list of essentials includes:
- Tongue-and-groove pliers
- Bucket
- Rag
- Screwdriver
- Hammer
- 2×4 lumber
- 12-gauge wire
- 3/4-inch wood doweling
- Utility knife
- Chisel
- Heat gun
Support The Sink
Heavy materials like cast iron or stone are the main construction components of the undermount sinks.
The moment we set them free from the countertop, there are chances that they would crash because of the heavyweight.
To prevent this fall, use a bar clamp to grip it. Place one lumber that measures 2×4 parallel to the cabinet.
Start With The P-Trap Assembly
Loosen the slip nut with tongue and groove pliers. Once done, open the other side of the waste trap that leads to the wall’s drain.
The trap has water inside, so be careful while loosening or unscrewing it. You can only disassemble the rest of the P-Trap after it is empty.
Block the opening of the drainpipe fixed in the wall. It would prevent the sewer gases from coming out of the drain pipe.
Unassembled The Drain
Use the pliers to open the drain tailpiece. Unscrew and remove the nut carefully.
Use a hammer to tap the strainer. Lose the putty and then take out the assembly from the drain.
Removing The Faucet
Usually, the faucets on the undermount sinks are fixed with the countertop. Therefore, there is no need to remove them.
In case you are not comfortable with the faucet or the water pressure has increased, open the faucet as well. Shut off all the valves and then remove the tubes.
Remove The Clips
Check the clips that are anchoring the sink. Loosen them with the screwdrivers.
Once done, then you can comfortably remove the sink from its place. If it does not have the clips, then an adhesive must be holding it.
Separate The Adhesive
If the sink is not attached to the clips, there must be an adhesive between the sink and the countertop.
Free the sink with the help of a sharp knife. Make sure that all the glue is detached.
The moment you pass a sharp knife or blade through the adhesive, the bond breaks.
This frees the sink. If the adhesive has become challenging, then you can use the hot gun too.
Clean The Countertop
Once done with the removal, clean the countertop thoroughly. There should be no traces of the adhesive on the countertop.
Conclusion
The process of removing the undermount sink seems complicated, but it is not.
There are a few things to keep in mind, and the rest will become fine.
If you have any questions regarding this process, feel free to contact me or mention them in the comments section below.
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