Replacing Cabinets Without Removing the Countertop
Question
Where I lived there were many home shows pushing new granite top specials. Many people bought a new granite top only to later realize just how ugly the old cabinets now looked. These people were now scared of disturbing and cracking their nice top if they bought new cabinets. This is where my trick comes in. I have done many successful kitchens this way. By the way I work with quality stock brand cabinets, no custom made.
Without ever disturbing the countertop, I break out the old base cabinet two at a time but always leaving support for the top. Since the top overhangs the top rail of the face frame, I cut a 1″ cut from the bottom perimeter of the new base cabinet. Now it slides right under the countertop overhang. Then I prop it up with blocks and shims, screw it to the wall and add some liquid nails to where it touches under the CT. Once all the bases are installed I simply skin the exposed ends and the toe skin covers the toe kick face. Of course just R&R the uppers are put in the standard way. It is a lot of extra work on your knees but it pays the bills and no one else is doing it.
Forum Responses
(Cabinet and Millwork Installation Forum)
From contributor M:
I�ve never done a whole kitchen but I have replaced cabinets that way. Just be very careful. One crack can cost you a lot of money!
From contributor J:
Interesting idea. You’ve got good insurance I hope!
From the original questioner:
I never cracked any granite or SS or SSV. I have cracked some tile grout on a 4X4 ceramic CT but that was so easily fixable. If done right while always supporting it then it really is simple. I suppose I have done 15 of them without a problem.
From contributor O:
Great find of a surprising niche in the market. I can’t help wonder why not just reface and skip all the risk?
From contributor H:
We have refinished whole kitchens without touching the counter top. It�s fast and easy, but different from what you�re doing. This fits the low budget makeover.
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Replacing Kitchen Sink Cabinets: Keep The Countertop Intact
Replacing your kitchen sink base cabinets without removing the countertop is possible but challenging. The process will depend on the type of sink, countertop, and cabinet you have, as well as your kitchen layout. The first step is to measure, plan, and prepare the area. You will then need to disconnect the sink plumbing and remove the old sink. Next, you will need to remove the base cabinet by unscrewing it from the wall and carefully removing it from the rest of the cabinetry. You can then install your new cabinet and sink, ensuring that the countertop is supported throughout the process. Finally, reconnect the water lines and test that everything is running smoothly.
How to replace kitchen sink base cabinets without removing the countertop:
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Depends on the style of the kitchen and the countertop material. It can be a quick and inexpensive DIY project, but it can also go wrong easily and become costly. |
| Steps | 1. Measure, plan, and prepare the area. 2. Turn off the water for the whole house. 3. Remove the old sink and disconnect the sink plumbing. 4. Install any fixtures and the new sink. 5. Reconnect the water lines. |
| Things to consider | 1. Current and new sink size, shape, and style. 2. Whether to recut the countertops. 3. Functionality and any issues with the old sink. 4. Aesthetics, including colour and materials. 5. Whether the base cabinet matches the other kitchen cabinets. 6. Whether to add a drawer base cabinet, a lazy Susan, or retractable storage baskets. 7. Whether to increase the height of the wall cabinet for taller occupants. |
| Tips | 1. Use a magnet to find buried screws. 2. The cabinet might be screwed into the floor. 3. Braces should be at least 1/8″ to 1/4″ taller for the new cabinet. 4. Use a utility knife to cut away any caulk holding the sink to the counter. 5. Use a pry bar or crowbar to remove the sink and the countertop. |
What You’ll Learn
- Measure, plan and prepare the area
- Turn off the water supply
- Disconnect the sink plumbing
- Remove the old sink and install fixtures
- Choose a new sink that fits the existing hole in the countertop
Measure, plan and prepare the area
When planning to replace your kitchen sink base cabinet, it is essential to start by measuring, planning, and preparing the area thoroughly. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Measurements:
- Determine the sink size and style: Before choosing a new sink, consider the current size and shape of your sink and compare it to the desired upgrade. Standard-sized sinks can be removed and installed quickly, but opting for a different shape or size will require adjustments to the countertops and plumbing, which may need a professional.
- Assess the functionality and aesthetics: When shopping for a new sink, consider its functionality, addressing any issues you faced with your old sink. Also, keep in mind the overall look and feel of your kitchen, ensuring the new sink complements the space in terms of colour, material, and style.
- Measure the kitchen and work surface areas: The size of your kitchen and the dedicated space for your sink and work surfaces will influence the base cabinet size. Opting for a larger sink or a unique style, like a farmhouse apron-front sink, will require a larger base cabinet.
- Consider the cabinet type: Ask yourself how you utilize your kitchen. If you rely on each drawer for organization, a drawer base cabinet might be ideal. For easy access to corner units, consider a lazy Susan. If maximizing storage space is a priority, look into retractable storage baskets.
Planning and Preparation:
- Turn off the water supply: Before beginning any work, ensure you turn off the water for the entire house, not just at the sink site.
- Disconnect the sink plumbing: Open the old cabinet under the sink and remove any stored items to access the plumbing. Locate the two water supply valves with small handles and water hoses running to the sink. Rotate the knobs clockwise to cut the water supply, and then loosen the water supply hose couplings with pliers if necessary.
- Remove the old sink: To detach the sink from the countertop, run a utility knife along the outside surface where the sink meets the counter, cutting away any caulk. Use a pry bar or crowbar to gently pry the sink out of the countertop, working your way around the edges.
- Prepare the area for the new sink: Once the old sink is removed, clean and prepare the area for the new installation. Ensure the space is clear of any debris or remnants from the previous sink to create a smooth surface for the new sink installation.
Accurate measurements and careful planning will ensure a successful replacement of your kitchen sink base cabinet. Taking the time to prepare the area will make the installation process more efficient and help you avoid potential pitfalls.
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Turn off the water supply
Before you begin replacing your kitchen sink base cabinets, it is important to turn off the water supply to avoid any spills or leaks. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do this:
Locate the Water Supply Valves:
Start by opening the old cabinet underneath your kitchen sink. Remove any items stored there to access the plumbing. Look for the two water supply valves that connect to the sink. These valves will have small handles at the end and water hoses running up to the sink.
Once you have located the water supply valves, turn the knobs at the end in a clockwise direction. This action will cut off the water supply to your sink. Make sure to turn off the water for the whole house rather than just at the sink site. This ensures that there is no water flow to the sink during the replacement process.
Loosen the Water Supply Hoses:
After turning off the water supply valves, you may need to loosen the water supply hose couplings from underneath the kitchen sink. If they are tight, you can use a pair of pliers to help loosen them. Be careful not to damage the hoses as you will need to reconnect them later.
Double-Check the Water Supply:
Once you have turned off the valves and loosened the hoses, double-check to ensure that the water supply to the sink is completely shut off. You can do this by trying to run the water from the sink faucet. If the water has been successfully turned off, there should be no water flow from the faucet.
Prepare the Work Area:
With the water supply turned off, you can now prepare the area for the next steps of the replacement process. This may include removing any remaining items from the cabinet and placing a bucket or towel underneath the sink to catch any residual water drips.
Remember, working with plumbing can be complex, and it is always recommended to proceed with caution. If you are unsure about any part of the process, it is best to consult a professional plumber to ensure a safe and successful replacement of your kitchen sink base cabinets.
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Disconnect the sink plumbing
Disconnecting the sink plumbing is a crucial step in replacing your kitchen sink base cabinet. Here is a detailed guide to help you through the process:
Firstly, ensure that you turn off the water supply for the entire house. This is important to avoid any water-related accidents during the replacement process.
Now, open the old cabinet underneath the sink and clear out any items stored there. This will give you access to the plumbing. Look for the two water supply valves that connect to the sink. These valves will have small handles at the end and water hoses running up to the sink. To cut off the water supply to the sink, rotate these knobs in a clockwise direction.
Next, you will need to loosen the water supply hose couplings from under the sink. If necessary, use a pair of pliers to do this. Once the water supply is disconnected, you can proceed to remove the sink from the countertop.
If your sink is fastened to the countertop with caulk, you will need to cut away the caulk with a utility knife. Run the knife along the outside surface of the sink where it meets the counter to free the sink from the countertop.
In some cases, the sink may be attached to the countertop with glue or clips on the underside. If so, you will need to detach these fasteners before you can remove the sink.
Remember, replacing a sink can be a straightforward DIY project, but it’s important to have the correct measurements and do your research beforehand. Taking precise measurements will ensure that your new sink fits seamlessly into the existing hole in your countertop.
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Remove the old sink and install fixtures
Removing the old sink and installing a new one is a straightforward process, but it requires careful planning and execution to avoid damaging your existing countertop. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Disconnect the Water Supply: Before removing the old sink, turn off the water supply for the entire house. Then, open the old cabinet under the sink and locate the two water supply valves with small handles and water hoses running up to the sink. Use a pair of pliers if necessary to loosen the water supply hose couplings, and rotate the knobs clockwise to cut the water supply.
Remove the Old Sink: Kitchen sinks are typically fastened to the countertop with caulk, glue, and clips on the underside. Use a utility knife to cut away any caulk holding the sink to the counter. Then, insert a pry bar or crowbar between the sink and countertop, and carefully work your way around the sink edges to pry it out. Ensure that you do not damage the countertop during this process.
Install Fixtures (if applicable): If you are changing the type or size of your sink, you may need to make adjustments to the plumbing and the countertop. Consult a professional if you are unsure about the required modifications. Additionally, consider updating your backsplash if your new sink does not match the old style.
Install the New Sink: Place the new sink in the hole of the countertop, ensuring it fits properly. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for securing the sink to the countertop, which may involve using caulk, glue, or clips.
Reconnect the Water Supply: After installing the new sink, reconnect the water supply hoses and turn on the water supply for the house. Check for any leaks, and ensure that the sink is functioning properly.
Remember, it is essential to take precise measurements, plan accordingly, and work carefully throughout the process to avoid damaging your countertop or creating plumbing issues. If you encounter complex plumbing adjustments or countertop modifications, consider seeking professional assistance.
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Choose a new sink that fits the existing hole in the countertop
Replacing your kitchen sink without removing the countertop is possible, but it requires careful planning and measurements. The easiest option is to choose a new sink that fits the existing hole in your countertop. Here are some steps to help you choose the right sink:
First, measure your existing sink carefully. Take note of its size, shape, and depth. Pay attention to the location of the drain and the distance from the sink wall to the drain centre. If your new sink has different dimensions and a different drain location, you may need to modify the countertop opening and/or plumbing. Therefore, it is essential to have precise measurements before purchasing a new sink.
When shopping for a new sink, size, shape, and depth are critical factors. Choose a sink that will fit into the existing hole in your countertop. This means selecting a sink with the same width and depth as your current sink. If you opt for a bigger or deeper sink, you may need to recut your countertop to accommodate the larger size. Additionally, a larger sink will likely be heavier, so ensure your current countertop is strong and durable enough to support it.
Consider the functionality you want from your new sink. Think about any issues you faced with your old sink, such as poor flow or frequent clogging. Choose a sink that addresses these problems and improves your daily routine. Also, keep in mind the aesthetics of your kitchen. The sink is a prominent feature, so consider how its colour and material will impact the overall look and feel of the space.
Before purchasing your new sink, create a drawing of your desired sink with all the critical measurements. This will help you visualise how it will fit into the existing hole and ensure that you buy the right size. Additionally, consider the cabinet space below your sink. Check for cross members or other obstructions that may interfere with the new sink. Ensure you have enough space to mount the anchor brackets that secure the sink.
Finally, most sinks come with a template. Once you purchase your new sink, trace the cutout of the template onto your countertop. This will guide you in making the necessary cuts. If you have a granite countertop, use a wet saw or an angle grinder with a diamond blade. For a quartz countertop, you may need to remove the old sink and prepare the surface with silicone before installing the new one.
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