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How to Install a Farmhouse Sink in Old Cabinets

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Popularly known as apron sinks, farmhouse kitchen sinks have a huge overhanging front edge extending up to six inches vertically. The ergonomic nature of the front edge gives users a smooth area to lean, making it a comfortable place to work. It’s easy to install a farmhouse sink in existing counter-tops.

Moreover, they provide enough room to wash large pots, plus food preparations. You’ll have an attractive centrepiece in any area installed; It’s no wonder they continue to be a popular choice for most homeowners. Unlike regular drop-in sinks, farmhouse sinks have to be installed below the counter and will rest at the base of a cabinet.

This means they’ll need some unique cabinet configuration. The good news is that you’ll not need an apron sink base cabinet; your old standard cabinets can work just fine. They have a supporting perimeter that adapts to the frames of the old cabinets with a few modifications.

Can You Put a Farmhouse in Existing Cabinets?

Sure you can; it’s quite an easy process. You’ll need to remember your cabinet base’s measurement and strength. With that said, here’s a quick guide on how to add a farmhouse sink to existing cabinets.

  • First, you’ll need to choose an apron sink that’s smaller in width than the base cabinet. If your cabinet measures 30 to 36 inches, you can typically go for a farmhouse sink that measures around 27 to 33 inches.
  • Afterwards, prepare the cabinet by first removing the front panels leaving the area exposed. You’ll then tape the cutout for the sawing path.
  • Once that’s done, add some support on the left and right sides of the cabinet to hold the sink in place.
  • Put the front door back on, and proceed with the installation process, and you’re all set.
  • Slide the sink into the cutout you made, ensuring it rests on the installed supports.
  • The shims under the sink will allow you to adjust your required height.

Do I Need a Special Cabinet for a Farmhouse Sink?

As stated earlier, apron sinks require unique configurations depending on the size and material you pick. Generally, most sinks are large and heavier in size and weight, respectively. You’ll most likely need a custom cabinet to accommodate the new sink. If your standard cabinets don’t have any support system for the extra weight, you may need to make some adjustments.

Typically, a simple framing would do the magic trick. It’s crucial to hire a cabinet contractor to help you with this task if you’re not particularly crafty in construction. Moreover, depending on the type of apron sink, part of the cabinet will be removed.

How to Install a Farmhouse Sink in Old Cabinets

Even though the process is hands-on, the steps below will help you to install an apron sink in old cabinets quickly. Let’s first highlight the tools you’ll need for this process.

Tools Required:

  • Small bucket
  • Measuring tape
  • Sawz-all
  • Flat pry-bar
  • Finish nailer
  • Utility knife
  • Dowels
  • Wood glue
  • Ratchet bar-clamps
  • Bubble level
  • Table saw

Step 1: Preparing the Work Area

First things first, you’ll need to disconnect the water supply. Usually, there are two valves underneath the base cabinet for hot and cold water supply. After disconnecting the two valves, you’ll disconnect the fitting. Once that is done, you can remove the water supply lines, leaving them dangling below the sink. Afterwards, you’ll remove the drainage lines, then use the bucket to accumulate water left in the P-trap.

Step 2: Removing the Old Sink

Using a screwdriver, remove all fasteners holding the sink in place. They’re located in the base cabinet below the sink. The utility knife will come in handy when cutting the silicon that surrounds the sink. It should free the sink and allow you to lift it from the counter-top.

Step 3: Removing Countertops

Start removing the drawers, cabinets, and their contents. Unscrew all fasteners releasing the base cabinets that are holding the counter-top. Cut through the silicon beads freeing up your counter-top using your utility knife.

Step 4: Construct a Support Frame

Farmhouse sinks are pretty heavy, making up for their durability. Therefore, building a support frame on both sides of the base cabinet is essential. However, they shouldn’t eat up the space for storage underneath the sink. You’ll also need to use a measuring tape to determine how tall the framing should be.

Step 5: Cut into the Old Cabinet

This phase can look challenging, but the process is easy. Get rid of the false front panel. Using your measuring tape, measure the area where the new farmhouse will rest. It’s important to leave a little wriggle room for the sink. Leave a quarter gap for both sides so the apron sink can fit well.

Remember, these measurements don’t have to be 100%; you can estimate the nearest whole number. Double-check your measurements before making the final cut. Is everything up to par? Now take your Sawzall and start cutting the cabinet for the farmhouse sink.

Step 6: Installing the Farmhouse Sink

Everything is all set for the final piece. Slide the apron sink right in. It will easily rest on the frame you built. You will not need any fasteners or adhesive to hold it in place. Remember the gap you left initially; it would be helpful in your final adjustment of installing a farmhouse sink in existing cabinets.

Use a bubble level to ensure the apron sink is levelled in all directions. If you’re to make adjustments, you can use the shims.

Step 7: Place a New Countertop

You can hire counter-top installers for this process. The experts will add silicon to seal the seam above and below the sink. Once this silicon dries up, it’ll hold the apron sink in place.

Step 8: Configure the Base Cabinet Under the Sink

Make sure the silicon is completely dry. It’s highly recommended you leave it for 24 hours, then return when this time elapses. The extra boards left while building the frame will come in handy; mount them on the frame with a finish nailer.

It’ll cover the frame plus make the base cabinet complete. You can then re-install the drawers and cabinets you initially removed. Moreover, you can also install a trim that surrounds the sink. The old spring clip will ensure an easy setup.

Step 9: Cut the Cabinet Doors

To finish installing farmhouse sinks in existing cabinets, you need to measure the door opening and cut the cabinet doors to size. It ensures the lower section of your cabinet door will align with the rest of the cabinets in the kitchen. Every process here will require top-notch precision, especially the cuts. Re-install the hinges, and put the new doors in place using glues and dodges.

Summary

Even though the apron sink has its origin in the rustic practically, it’s a kitchen remodelling trend that’s becoming a go-to design. Maybe it’s because of its ergonomic nature, allowing users to reach for various things easily.

However, how to install a farmhouse sink in old cabinets requires expertise and skills. It’s the perfect DIY project for DIYers to indulge with loved ones. It’s the perfect makeover, as the sink will revitalize the kitchen’s ambience.

Moreover, it’s quite roomy, allowing users to conduct their chores seamlessly and comfortably. The best part about them is that they’re super easy to clean. You’ll just need to wipe them with a sponge to eliminate all stains on the sink. It lightens up the kitchen load, especially for people who spend most of their time there. You can also choose to work with experts experienced in how to install a farm sink in existing cabinets for better outcomes.

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