Installing a new bathroom vanity can update the look of your bathroom while also providing much needed storage. With some basic DIY skills and tools, you can install a bathroom vanity on your own, saving on installation costs. This comprehensive guide will teach you step-by-step how to install bathroom vanity yourself.
Introduction
Installing a new vanity in your bathroom is one of the easiest ways to update the look and functionality of the space. With the right preparation and tools, even DIY novices can tackle a bathroom vanity installation project. The process involves removing the old vanity, preparing the plumbing, securing the new vanity in place, hooking up the plumbing, and giving it a final polish.
While it may seem daunting, following this step-by-step guide will help you successfully install a bathroom vanity like a pro. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Remove the Old Vanity
Before putting in the new bathroom vanity, the first step is to remove the old one. Start by:
Turn Off Water Supply Lines
Locate the shut-off valves for the hot and cold water supply lines under the sink and turn them clockwise to shut off the water. This prevents water from gushing out when you disconnect the plumbing.
Disconnect Drain Pipes
Under the sink, disconnect the drain pipes from the drain tailpiece, which is the curved piece of pipe attached to the sink drain. You can usually disconnect them by unscrewing them by hand. Place a bucket under the tailpiece to catch any water still in the pipes.
Detach Vanity from Wall
Check for any screws or nails securing the old vanity to the wall through the backsplash or side panels. Remove them so the vanity can be taken out.
Remove Vanity Cabinet
Finally, lift the old sink vanity up off the ground and maneuver it out of the bathroom. If it’s too heavy, remove the doors and side panels so it’s easier to lift.
Clean Up Space
With the vanity gone, now is a good time to clean up the empty space left behind so it’s ready for the new vanity. Sweep the floor, remove any adhesive or debris, fill holes in drywall, and give the whole area a thorough scrub.
Step 2: Prep the New Vanity
With the old vanity out of the way, you can start prepping the new one for installation. This involves:
Open Box and Inspect
Carefully unbox your new vanity and verify that all the parts are present and undamaged. Check inside cabinets and drawers as well. Report any issues immediately.
Gather Needed Tools
Be sure you have all the tools required for installation like a wrench, plumber’s putty, silicone caulk, screwdriver, drill, tape measure, level, etc. Refer to the manufacturer’s guide for specifics.
Adjust or Install Feet
To account for any uneven spots on the floor, use an adjustable wrench to turn the pre-installed feet at the base of the vanity to adjust their height as needed.
Attach Top to Base
For two-piece vanities, lay the countertop on a flat surface and carefully lower the base cabinet onto it. Secure from inside using screws, brackets, or adhesive provided.
Stage Near Install Area
With the vanity prepped and assembled, carefully move it into position near the final installation area. Protect floors and walls so no damage occurs.
Step 3: Anchor Vanity to the Wall
To ensure your new vanity doesn’t shift or wobble once installed, it must be properly anchored to the wall. Here’s how:
Mark Stud Locations
Locate the wall studs using a stud finder and mark their positions with painter’s tape at the top and bottom. Studs provide the strongest attachment points.
Drill Holes for Mounting Hardware
Based on your vanity’s installation guide, use a drill to make pilot holes in the back wall of the vanity and the marked studs where the mounting brackets or screws will go.
Attach Mounting Hardware to Wall
Hold the vanity roughly in place and use a screwdriver to install the provided mounting hardware into the drilled wall studs according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Secure Vanity to Hardware
With a helper holding the vanity, align the mounting brackets or back holes to the installed hardware and insert screws to firmly secure the vanity in place on the wall.
Ensure It’s Level and Secure
Verify that the vanity base is level side-to-side and front-to-back using a level tool. Tighten all hardware securely so the vanity does not shift.
Step 4: Install Plumbing Fixtures
With the vanity cabinet anchored in, it’s time to take care of the plumbing. This includes:
Install Shut-off Valves
Replace old shut-off valves on hot and cold supply lines with new ones. This prevents leaks and gives you easy shut-off access in the future.
Attach Faucet and Drain
Following provided instructions, install the faucet, pop-up drain assembly, and P-trap that came with your new vanity using plumber’s putty, gaskets, washers, and wrenches as needed.
Connect Drain Pipes
Reconnect the drain pipes leading from the wall to the P-trap and new drain tailpiece under the sink, using slip-joint connections. Tighten by hand.
Hook Up Supply Lines
Connect hot and cold water supply lines from shut-off valves to the faucet inlets. Tighten with tongue-and-groove pliers. Keep lines evenly twisted to avoid kinks.
Leak Check
Turn water back on and look for drips or leaks at joints or pipes. Tighten as needed. See Step 6 for how to caulk around the sink where it meets the countertop.
Step 5: Install Drawers, Doors, and Trim
You’re just about done—just a few finishing touches:
Install Drawers
Most vanities come with removable drawers to make moving them easier. Re-insert drawers into cabinets and ensure they slide smoothly.
Attach Doors and Knobs
Mount hinges to cabinet doors as per instructions, then hang doors and verify they close properly. Install door knobs and pulls.
Apply Trim Pieces
Adhere any trim strips, cover panels, or aprons that came with your vanity to finish off the edges or hide any gaps.
Step 6: Caulk and Seal the Vanity
Caulking and sealing around the edges of your newly installed vanity give it a finished look and prevent moisture damage.
Run a Bead of Silicone Caulk
Using a caulk gun, lay down a steady bead of waterproof silicone caulk around the seam where the vanity countertop meets the wall.
Caulk Around Sink Edges
Run a smooth bead of caulk around the top edge of the sink where it meets the countertop. This prevents water seepage under the sink.
Wipe Away Excess Caulk
Before the caulk dries, use a damp cloth or finger to wipe away any excess, leaving the bead smooth and consistent. Remove painter’s tape if used.
Allow Caulk to Dry
Give the caulk 24 hours to fully cure before using the sink. Verify that the bead provides a continuous seal with no gaps or cracks.
Step 7: Install Fixtures and Make Final Adjustments
The last step is to install any fixtures and make any final adjustments:
Reinstall Plumbing Fixtures
If removed earlier, put back the sink strainer, P-trap cover, drain stoppers, and any other components that install under the sink.
Seal Around Faucet and Drains
Apply a thin bead of silicone caulk around faucet holes and drain connections at the top and undersides of the sink to prevent leaks.
Adjust Doors and Drawers
If doors or drawers don’t close evenly or are out of alignment, adjust hinge positions and tighten mounting screws until satisfactory.
Verify Water Flow
Turn on the hot and cold taps and check water pressure and flow. Adjust supply line valves as needed.
Touch Up Any Damage
Use wood filler, paint, or stain touch-ups to patch up any nicks or damage that may have occurred during installation.
That concludes installing a new bathroom vanity! Take a step back and admire your work in improving your bathroom. Just follow these steps and you can learn how to install bathroom vanity like a professional.
Frequently Asked Questions About Installing Bathroom Vanities
Here are answers to some common questions about DIY bathroom vanity installation:
How long does it take to install a bathroom vanity?
For an experienced DIYer, plan on 2-5 hours to fully install a new bathroom vanity. Removing the old vanity and plumbing prep will take the most time. The actual vanity installation can be done in under an hour.
Can I install a bathroom vanity myself?
Yes! With some DIY knowledge and the proper tools, installing a bathroom vanity is definitely a do-it-yourself project for most homeowners. Follow the step-by-step guide above and take your time. Seek help for tricky plumbing steps.
What tools do I need to install a bathroom vanity?
Basic tools include a tape measure, level, stud finder, drill, adjustable wrench, pliers, screwdrivers, hammer, and silicone caulk. You may also need a hacksaw, basin wrench, plumber’s putty, and other plumbing tools.
How do I secure a vanity to the wall?
Locate and use wall studs to securely attach the vanity through the back top frame or side panels. Carriage bolts, wall cleats, and toggle bolts also provide sturdy attachment points.
Should I caulk around a new vanity?
Yes, use silicone caulk to seal all edges and gaps where the vanity meets walls, around the sink and backsplash, and near faucet holes. This prevents moisture damage and gives a clean finish.
Conclusion
Installing a new vanity is one of the best upgrades you can make in your bathroom. Following the seven steps above will teach you how to install bathroom vanity successfully like a professional:
- Remove old vanity
- Prep new vanity
- Anchor vanity
- Install plumbing
- Attach doors and drawers
- Caulk and seal
- Final adjustments
As long as you take your time, use proper tools, follow instructions, and get help with tricky plumbing steps, even DIY beginners can tackle a bathroom vanity installation project. Just follow this guide to learn how to install bathroom vanity in your own home.
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