Southsea, Portsmouth Office 023 9200 7719

Home plumbing guide

Can I replace my kitchen sink without changing the worktop?

The cut-out, worktop material and space underneath matter as much as the bowl size. Send the new model and photos above and below the existing sink before buying if you are unsure.

Match what you notice

The new bowl is deeper
We check space for the trap and the height of the waste connection. A deeper bowl can leave too little fall for the pipe. We discuss lowering the connection if practical or choosing a shallower bowl.
The new sink is wider or smaller
For a wider sink, we check the template, worktop edges, cabinet and clips before deciding whether to enlarge the opening. For a smaller sink, the rim needs to cover the cut-out or fit a suitable adapter. Otherwise, a different sink or worktop may be needed.
You want a bowl fitted underneath
We check whether the worktop manufacturer permits an undermount. For ordinary laminate over chipboard, we usually suggest an inset sink with a rim over the cut edge, or a compatible worktop for an undermount.
The rim leaks or the sink rocks
We check the clips, whether the rim sits flat and whether the cut edge is firm. A sound edge can sometimes be dried and resealed. If the substrate has softened or crumbles, we discuss replacing the worktop. If a clip has failed, we check whether a replacement can be secured to sound metal.

Testing after fitting

Once connected, we check the water supply, fill the bowl and empty it while inspecting the waste joints. Where there is an overflow, we check it separately.

Read about leaks under a kitchen sink

Further reading

All home plumbing guides

Tell us what needs attention

Have your postcode and a short description ready. If water is still escaping, call us.