Double kitchen sinks are usually considered more reliable and efficient by many homeowners.
However, to some, they would rather have a single kitchen sink than a double one.
Each person has their preferences when it comes to owning anything, and therefore it’s not automatic that a double sink is the best for everyone.
If you have just moved into a new house or want to do a complete kitchen makeover, you may be wondering,
Can You Replace A Double Bowl Kitchen Sink With A Single Basin Sink?
Of course, yes! You can do any makeover of your desire for your sink, and actually, replacing a double sink with a single is possible. However, you need to know that this process might be pretty expensive but still worth the price.
If you enjoy cooking every time, you may prefer a single wide sink to a double sink because of the many cutlery you will be placing on your sink before you wash them.
In this article, you will find insights on the difference between a single and a double sink, the benefits of having a single sink, and the steps of replacing a double sink with a single sink.
The Difference Between A Single Sink And A Double Sink
The difference between these single and double sinks is evident from their appearance.
A single sink is one with a single large bowl without dividers.
It is becoming trendy in recent days to have a single bowl sink as the double sinks get off the market.
The single sink is loved by many because of its larger bowl space that is usually preferred to the small double sinks.
A double bowl sink, on the other hand, is one with two basins that usually have a divider between them.
Earlier, the double sinks were of the same size, but they have evolved over time, with the newest models coming in different sizes to fit customer preferences.
Many manufacturers produce double sinks where one sink basin is larger.
It is most preferred that the larger basin will be used for major kitchen works while the small one may be used once in a while.
You may, in other cases, find out that these big basin sinks are very shallow to hold the amount of water you want to use.
Five Benefits Of A Single Bowl Sink Over A Double Bowl Sink
Before you decide on having your double sink replaced by a single one, you may need first to weigh the benefits of having a single sink.
Some of the reasons why one may opt to replace their double bowl sink with a single sink include:
1. Ability To Handle Large Utensils
Most kitchenware comes in varying sizes.
As much as some kitchenware like plates and cups may fit on any sink, others like pots and flasks can not fit on the small bowls of most double sinks.
In such cases, single sinks make a lot of sense and are more convenient because of their ample space.
2. Easier Faucet Replacement
At some point in life, you will need to replace faucets in your house.
As far as replacing kitchen faucets is concerned, it is much easier to replace faucets in a single sink compared to replacing double sink faucets.
3. Easy To Maintain
At the bare minimum, you will need to wash your sink probably more than once a day if you want it to last you considerably longer.
As such, maintaining your sink can be tedious.
From cleaning to unblocking, you will find it easier to maintain a single sink than double bowls.
Even better, you will only be dealing with a single drainage line.
4. Single Sinks Come In A Wide Range Of Sizes And Shapes
You can buy a single bowl sink of any size and install it in your kitchen.
They are not all necessarily large basin sinks.
Whether you have a petite or sizable kitchen, you can easily get a single sink that fits your needs perfectly.
5. Cheap
Single sinks are usually cheaper than their cousins with double bowls.
Depending on the model you buy, the price can be almost half that of double sinks. Even better, they are also easy to install and use.
How To Replace A Double Sink With A Single
You need first to buy the new single sink that you wish to install, then subdivide your work into three parts;
- removal of the old sink
- reshaping the countertop
- and installing the new sink.
Follow these steps, especially if you are fixing it without the directions of a plumber.
Removing The Old Sink
Some of the tools you will need include
- Screwdriver
- Pliers
- An old piece of towel
- Stanley knife
- Adjustable wrenches
- Small bucket
Before you commence your plumbing work, take a photo of the under the sink to help you determine the exact position of some parts, then follow these steps.
1. Turn Off The Water
Check all the water supply lines in your kitchen and turn them off – the shut-off valves will most likely be in the cabinet below the sink.
Else, you can turn off the main water line as this project won’t last long.
Next, open the sink faucets to release the water pressure that might still be in the lines.
2. Disconnect The Water Supply
Using adjustable wrenches, disconnect the water supply lines and position a bucket to collect any remaining water.
3. Disconnect The Drain Pipes
Using pliers, disconnect all the drain pipes from the dishwasher and disposal units.
4. Loosen The Metallic Clips
Remove the metal clips that connect the sink to underneath your counter. You may need to rotate them towards the center of the sink for smooth removal.
5. Cut The Sealant
Run a cutting material, preferably a Stanley knife, around the sealant on the counter to break the seal holding the sink to the counter.
6. Remove The Sink
After disconnecting, you can now pull out the sink from under the counter to remove it, then remove any remains of putty and sealant.
Cut Your Countertop
You need to cut the countertop properly to fit it in the new sink.
You will need a pencil, power saw jigsaw, waterproof sealant, drill, and a file or sandpaper.
1. Mark Out The Sink Worktop
Place the new sink reversely on the underside of the counter and make the markings using a pencil. You may then add the manufacturer’s recommended extra depth of 0.1 cm inside the first drawn line.
2. Drill Holes On The Corners
Guided by the markings you have drawn, drill four holes in the inner lining.
3. Cut Out The Worktop
Use a jigsaw to cut along the worktop. Make sure to support it properly so that it does not fall off while you are cutting it.
4. Smoothen The Edges
Use sandpaper or a file rub the edges of the inner rim countertop and then seal with a waterproof sealant and leave it to cure. If the top is made of granite or concrete, you will need better working tools.
Fitting The Sink
Follow these steps to attach your new sink to the space you have prepared.
1. Attach The Clips
Attach the clips underneath the kitchen sink and fold them towards the sink bowl.
2. Fix Taps
Gather new taps or take those from the old and fix them in the holes atop your new sink. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions
3. Fit The Strainer
Apply a reasonable amount of plumbers putty on the drain strainer of your sink and screw it into place.
4. Seal
After fixing all the sink elements, put a sealant to the underside to ensure every part is in place.
5. Place In The Sink
Lower your sink to the cutout space and make sure it is positioned correctly.
6. Tighten The Metal Clips
To make sure the sink is stable, tighten it up firmly to the countertop.
7. Connect The Water Supply
Connect all your tap lines since the sink is now ready to work.
Conclusion
Replacing a double sink with a single sink is possible and simple, especially if you can get a single bowl sink that fits the existing double sink space.
Follow the above steps, and you will have your new sink in place and ready to serve you.
Related
References
https://www.fixr.com/comparisons/single-bowl-vs-double-bowl-sink
https://www.tapwarehouse.com/blog/how-to-guides/how-to-remove-and-replace-a-kitchen-sink
