How do You Measure a Kitchen Sink to Replace It

Measuring the size is a fundamental issue when you need to buy or replace a kitchen sink. Imagine you went to buy a sink and liked the color and price, but when they ask about the size you want to fit your kitchen cabinet, you are silent! Then you realize the importance of measuring a kitchen sink.

To replace a kitchen sink, you will need a measuring tape and a notepad to record the dimensions. Here are the actions you should take:

Remove any items, such as dishes, from the basin in order to create an uncluttered workspace. From the sink’s outer margins, measure the sink’s left-to-right width. Measure from the widest position of the sink, which is typically the lip or rim.
Measure the depth of the sink from top to bottom, beginning at the sink’s outer margins. Again, measure from the sink’s deepest point. From the sink’s outer margins, measure the front-to-back length of the sink. From the farthest point of the washbasin, measure towards yourself.
If applicable, measure the distance between the faucet openings from center to center.
Ensure that you accurately document your measurements to purchase the proper size sink for your kitchen.

If you’re still confused about how to measure a kitchen sink for replacement, take it easy and read the rest of this article.

Things You Should Consider Before Measure a Kitchen Sink

There is always a method to complete any task. In the same way, there are certain things that you should consider before measuring a kitchen sink.

Those are described here-

Sink Type

The first thing to consider before measuring a kitchen sink is to know about the kitchen sink type. There are drop-in, and undermount style sinks. In a drop-in sink, the lips of the sink stay outside. It requires special consideration as the sink area covers the surrounding area too.

Therefore, the outer portion must be cleaned and maintained correctly along with the inside space of the sink. In an undermount type sink, the lips stay under the countertop. It requires no special consideration for cleaning and maintenance. The undermount sinks are highly user-friendly.

So, before replacing or buying a new kitchen sink, you must consider the type of sink you want that suits your kitchen scenario.

Installation Method

The installation method is another consideration before starting to measure a kitchen sink. Each type of sink has a different setup or installation method. For example, if a drop-in or top-mount sink is your fit, then the installation is easy.

It is installed on the countertop of the kitchen cabinet. It is kind of DIY. You can set it without the help of professional assistance.

If you want an undermount sink replaced, you must know the installation system beforehand. It says a professional person is an ideal choice to install an undermount sink. Proper observation and height, weight, and depth measurements are necessary because replacement will only seem easier.

The undermount sink is installed below the countertop. Then there is a farmhouse sink which can be installed as a top mount or drop-in, or an undermount.

For New Kitchen or Replace the Old Sink

The measurement of a kitchen sink is important for both purposes – for a new kitchen or for replacing the old sink. If you are going to purchase a new kitchen sink, the a wholesome idea about the space requirement and size makes you confident.

In addition, the purchasing becomes easier as you don’t need to consult or ask for assistance for the fitting.

This knowledge will be even more helpful if you need to replace an old sink. If you know the exact size and fitting condition of your kitchen sink, the rest of the things become really easy.

Tools You Need Before Measure a Kitchen Sink

To measure a kitchen sink, you need a toolbox. The toolbox must contain the following elements. The elements are:

- Pen/Pencil
- Paper
- Tape measure
- Level

Pen/Pencil: The kitchen cabinet can be small or big. The sink to drop on it or set under it should be specified first. With the help of a pencil or pen, the height, depth, and width are pointed out and noted down.
Paper: A notebook is the best choice for writing down the measurement. You should avoid writing a single piece of paper because that is susceptible to getting lost.
Tape Measure: To identify the inches of depth, height, and width, a clear tape measure is the thing you need.
Level: This helps in taking proper measurements. A level enables you to mark and calculate space requirements for setting up a sink.

How To Measure A Kitchen Sink- [ Step by Step Guide ]

Now, that you know the importance of measurement, this is time to talk about how to measure a kitchen sink. This process is described here step by step:

Step 1: Identify The Purpose of The Task

At first, you need to determine the purpose and scope of the task. I mean, you need to know the reason for the measurement you have to make. If it is for replacing the old sink with a similar type of new sink, then just measure the width, and depth along with the height of the existing sink. Apply the tools (pen, paper, measuring tape, and level) for measurement.

Then buy a new sink with the same measurement and installation. But if you want to replace the old sink with a new type, then you need to exercise the following steps.

Step 2: Gauge Your Existing Sink’s Area

If you have a drop in the kitchen sink, and you want to replace it with an undermount sink, you need to measure not only the area above the cabinet but also below the cabinet. As the type of kitchen sink will be changed, it will be required to measure from both above and below the countertop and cabinet.

While measuring the sink in detail, you should also cover the measurement of the drain pipe and P-trap. If you wish to buy a bigger sink, then you need to make a wider cutout on the cabinet. That extra cut should align with the size of the new sink.

Step 3: Assess The Length and Width of The Cabinet and Counter

Measuring the sink includes measuring the surrounding area as well. It is not only about the basin on the front side. To fix a sink, it needs additional space too. The faucet is an integral part of a kitchen sink. If you want a DIY setup, you should keep the faucet area fixed and install the sink.

In case you prefer an undermount sink – to be specific, a farmhouse sink in place of a top mount or drop-in sink, then you must extend the cut on the countertop to set below it. In this case, it needs a bit more cutout.

After all, You should still have sufficient blank space on the kitchen cabinet for these measurements. That area is needed to keep supporting materials. Cleaning tools and items are to be placed there.

Step 4: Calculate The Depth of The Sink and Cabinet

At this step, you need to measure the depth of the sink area. Use the measuring tape with the level and note it down. Measure the length of the drain pipe also. If you like an under-mount sink, make sure you arrange a few inches more than the inches written on the sink while you purchase. The undermount sink requires space both above and under the countertop.

In the case of a farmhouse sink, the space requirement is high, which means it needs more depth. The area to be used for garbage disposal and drain pipe should have no obstacles.

Some Effective Tips

Measure every corner and write it down.
Do it twice to ensure the accuracy of measurement.
Try to understand the functions of the pipe and other hidden materials below the sink.
Try not to change the sink location for replacement.
Cut the counter top as per the seller’s guideline.
Contact a trusted professional if you need plumbing modifications.

How Do You Determine Sink Size?

First, you should measure the depth of the cabinet. The next step is to measure the width. Then you need to deduct four inches from the width and one inch from the depth to find out the actual size of the sink. This means that when we mention the size of the sink, it includes some inches along with the cabinet area. Because kitchen sinks are installed that way.

So, following these steps, you can measure a kitchen sink to replace it with a new one. All you need to observe the whole thing and make a statistic of the sink area both above and under the countertop.

All in All

It’s important to take measurements of your current sink before shopping for a replacement. It is critical to accurately measure the width, length, and depth of the sink, as well as the location of the faucet and drain holes.

You can prevent the costly mistake of selecting a sink that does not fit your kitchen countertop by using the proper measurement techniques.