How to Upgrade a Kitchen Sink

Your kitchen sink gets a lot of use, and an outdated or banged up sink can really detract from the overall kitchen design. Upgrading your sink to a new model can help ensure your kitchen stays both stylish and functional. There are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind to make the most of your sink upgrade.


If your sink is currently installed below the counter, called an under-mount sink, or its installed in any solid surface or tiled counter, your new sink will have to be the same length and width as your current model. If your current sink drops into a laminate or other counter, however, you can increase your sink size, provided your sink base cabinet can handle it, because you can increase the size of the sink cutout. If you plan to keep your sink the same size, measure the sink from its rim, regardless of whether it is under or above the counter. If your sink is going to be enlarged, measure the sink base cabinet from inside stile to inside stile and subtract 1 inch.

Plan Your Configuration

If you're changing your sink, you may also want to change the way the sink functions. This may mean increasing the depth of the sink to hold larger pots and pans, or going from a single to a double bowl, or vice versa. When you go shopping for the sink, bring along your largest pot or pan. Make sure it can fit comfortably into the sink's compartment or compartments. If you aren't on the tall side, make sure you will be able to reach the bottom of the sink if you opt for a deeper model. Most kitchen counters measure 35 inches tall; a 10-inch drop to the sink's bottom can be hard to reach for some people.

Choose Your Material

Sinks come in a wide range of materials from stainless steel to copper, granite, fire-clay porcelain and enameled cast iron. Each has their advantages and disadvantages. If you choose a metal sink, make sure matches at least one other metal finish in the kitchen. When you choose a living finish like copper, or a stone sink like granite, know there is ongoing maintenance required to keep it looking its best. Also understand that not all sinks can handle a garbage disposal; most stone, fire clay and some specialty metals cannot handle the weight or vibrations involved.


Because you use your sink on a daily basis, make sure your new sink is on site and ready to go when your plumber arrives to unhook the old one. Installing a new sink means disconnecting the plumbing below it, and frequently disconnecting the faucet as well -- if you want a new faucet, now is the time to purchase and have it installed. If your new sink is an under mount, you won't be able to use it for at least 24 hours while the setting materials cure. If your sink is being enlarged, or you've chosen an apron-front sink, be prepared for some construction debris as your counter or cabinets are modified.