'Can you install a farmhouse sink in an existing countertop? ' is a common question, one with the short answer of 'yes'. If you're looking for more specifics, we'll cover more details about everything from installation to costs to obstacles that might get in the way.
Once the farmhouse under-mount sink is set, it's time to install the countertops above. For this step, professional help is recommended; you'll need to have precise measurements of the sink's dimensions, as the countertop might need to be adjusted and cut to fit in perfectly.
However, when it comes time to replace an undermount sink – whether it's damaged or simply outdated – you may be wondering if it's possible to replace the sink without removing your entire quartz countertop. Simply put, yes, you can replace an undermount sink without having to remove the countertop.
Your existing cabinets should be strong enough that they can easily bear the weight and size and can comfortably accommodate the new sink. However, if you follow the right steps and instructions, you can easily install a farmhouse sink in your existing cabinets without even some professional assistance.
Build a support frame
To install the sink properly, you'll need to build a frame out of 2x4s to support the weight. To retain as much usable cabinet space as possible, we built the frame by screwing 2x4s right to the sides of the base cabinet. This kept the framing from eating into the storage space below the sink.
Finally, there is a difference in the style of the two sinks. Farmhouse kitchen sinks are designed to add a rustic, farmhouse-style aesthetic to the kitchen, while apron sinks are more modern and sleek. Both farmhouse sinks and apron sinks are excellent choices for any kitchen.
Usually, you can replace granite countertops without damaging the cabinets. A professional installer who knows what they are doing should be able to remove old countertops without damaging cabinetry and install new granite countertops. Initially, installers use silicone to adhere the granite slab to the cabinets.
If your quartz countertop is attached to the cabinets with screws, use a good screwdriver to detach them. The next step is to lift the countertop carefully without breaking the cabinets. If the cabinet is hung with brackets, adhesive or nails then use a pry.
The attractive and streamlined design of the farmhouse sink can add dollar value to your kitchen and your home overall. If you're thinking of selling your home down the road, the farmhouse sink is many home buyers' dream kitchen statement piece.
A farmhouse sink needs supports attached to the inside of the cabinet because it's heavy. Some can weigh over 300 pounds when filled with water. The top of the sink needs to be even with the cabinets so the counter will sit correctly.
If you're planning to upgrade to a farmhouse sink in your current kitchen, you may have to change your countertops. Because farmhouse sinks are wider and deeper than standard sinks, your countertop (and potentially the cabinets below) will need to be adjusted to make room.
Fortunately, farmhouse sinks are designed to work in existing kitchen sink cabinets. They do require modifications, but none are very difficult. The first step is to remove the existing sink, then make a sink access-notch in the face frame just above the doors.
Farmhouse-Style Sinks with Quartz Countertops
Cambria surfaces are durable—more durable than marble or granite countertops—so they're the perfect choice to handle the needs of a farmhouse sink installation.
(If you're pairing a farmhouse sink with a laminate countertop, you will have to use a topmount sink, since laminate countertops aren't compatible with undermount sinks.)
While it can be done, changing a sink in a granite countertop puts the stone at risk of damage, which can be very pricey to repair. Fortunately, the process of removing a sink in a granite countertop is far less challenging than it seems – so long as you have the proper tools.
Unless the sink was formed as a continuous component of the countertop, it can be removed and replaced easily – whether it's undermount or drop-in. Though, you will need to make sure that the replacement sink is suited for the same size hole that you already have in the countertop.
If your cabinet layout was designed well, then this may not be a problem. But many older kitchens have layouts that aren't very efficient or aesthetically pleasing. Placing new counters on poorly-designed cabinetry could really undercut the benefits of your investment.
Removing countertops carefully does not ruin cabinets. There are screws holding it in the top of the cabinets. Once they are removed, you can lift the countertops away from the cabinets.
Since countertops sit directly on the cabinets, the cabinetry must be installed prior to the final measurements, fabrication, and installation. If an apron or farmhouse sink is being used, it must be installed prior to template process.
One of the drawbacks of choosing a farmhouse sink is the installation process. Depending on how your kitchen is set up, you may have to alter the size and design of your countertops before the farmhouse sink installation. Farmhouse sinks are much deeper and wider than classic kitchen sinks.
A good place to start when looking for the right size is with the most popular sizes for farmhouse sinks, small, medium, and large. Or the most common, either a 30″ or 33″ single bowl.
Farmhouse sinks are typically deeper and wider than traditional sinks. This makes them very efficient and convenient when soaking or washing larger pots and pans. Because of this, a farmhouse sink can be a great fit for homes with large families or for homeowners who do a lot of entertaining.