Perhaps you’re remodeling your home, and the old kitchen sink has got to go. However, it’s been there for ages and it sits perfectly in its custom-cutout on your beautiful granite kitchen countertop. If you want to change the whole thing, countertops and all, the process is pretty straightforward.
Considering that you want to change a sink resting on a granite countertop, it might not be so easy. We’re here to discuss this very topic, so stick around to learn more.
Can You Replace A Sink Without Replacing The Countertop?
Technically, yes you can replace a sink without replacing the entire countertop. In some cases, you may just want to switch out an old, faulty sink for a newer, modern option. However, if you have granite counters, this switch isn’t particularly easy.
The problem lies with how the sink was installed. Although granite is known for its robust durability, the manner in which some of these sinks are installed creates a point of weakness. So, although it can be done, you put the stone at risk of damage.
Should the countertop break or sustain damage at any point in the process, repairs won’t be cheap. In some cases, the break may be bad enough that you need to reevaluate the countertop altogether.
With all of the doom and gloom out of the way, it is certainly doable. If you’re not familiar with these types of projects, we recommend hiring a professional to handle them for you. Some contractors may have you sign a release form so they won’t be held accountable if the countertop breaks.
If you’re an avid DIYer, this is a project you could tackle yourself. However, the name of the game is patience. Don’t rush the process, or you may end up with undesirable results.
Can You Cut Existing Granite For A New Sink?
Some contractors will enlarge the sink cutout with the countertop still in place, but this can be risky due to the lack of support underneath the installed granite.
On the other hand, some contractors will insist on removing the granite to complete the cut. They’ll usually take the granite back to a shop, where a milling machine can easily handle the job. Of course, this draws out the process, since they have to uninstall and reinstall the slab.
Generally, it’s not recommended to cut the granite for the new cutout yourself. Unless you’re well-versed in handling these sorts of things, you may end up damaging the granite. Buying a whole new slab is a project in itself since you have to find something that closely matches the other slabs making up your counters.
Yes, you can cut existing granite for a new sink. However, it’s important to recognize the risks of doing so. Usually, you’ll need to find a sink with a larger footprint than the old one. Then, you can cut the excess granite away, leaving the right-size cutout for the new sink.
If you decide to remove the slab to cut it, make sure you’re aware of the granite installation process, which can be tricky.
So, while you can cut the granite yourself, we would advise hiring a professional (unless you’re experienced with these projects).
How Do You Remove An Old Sink From A Granite Countertop?
As we mentioned earlier, patience is key in removing an old sink from a granite countertop. It’s important to follow the necessary preparation steps to ensure a smooth removal. The adhesives used to secure sinks to granite surfaces are extremely strong, so you’ll need to be careful and patient while you work with them.
Preparation For Removal
Before you start removing the sink, you need to disconnect the water connections and the drain pipe. If there’s a garbage disposal attached, disconnect it and remove it as well. With any plumbing-related project, it’s usually a good idea to turn off the water main before starting the process.
Top-Mount Sink Removal
If the existing sink is a top-mount, the process is fairly easy. However, depending on the size and weight of the sink, you may need a few extra hands to help. The removal depends on how it’s fixed to the countertop. For example, if the sink’s flange is secured with glue or a similar adhesive, you’ll need to remove it carefully.
Once you free the sink from the countertop, be careful to lift it up and out without dropping it, as doing so will likely damage the counter.
Undermount Sink Removal
Removing an undermount sink from a granite countertop is trickier than tackling a top-mount removal. Since these sinks don’t have the flange to rest on the edges of the counter cutout, they need to be secured to the underside of the stone.
Usually, installers attach the sink with epoxy or a similar material. These substances are exceptionally durable and require a few steps for removal. Depending on the substance, you may be able to dissolve it, but otherwise, you’ll need to chip it away.
You can use a hand tool or an epoxy remover to tackle this process. If you use an epoxy remover, like xylene, you’ll need ventilation and a respirator. In some cases, chipping it away will be your only option. Do your best to avoid damaging the granite, but some chips are inevitable.
While you work your way around the sink, make sure there is something supporting the sink. This will prevent the sink from falling and pulling away from the stone, potentially damaging the pipes beneath. Once the sink is free of the adhesive bond, lift it out of the cabinet.