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.
Yet while granite countertops may be a little more difficult to work with, it is possible. You will need to cut into the granite with a saw (e.g., cement, tile, etc.), but the process is fairly similar to other types of countertops. Cut off the water supply and disconnect water lines by loosening nuts under the sink.
Either way, you might wonder if it's possible to replace the sink alone or if you have to update the kitchen countertops at the same time. The simple answer is that you may or may not have to replace countertops, depending on a number of factors.
Simply put, yes, you can replace an undermount sink without having to remove the countertop. After the plumbing and garbage disposal are disconnected, the clips that hold the sink to the countertop from below must be removed. Then, the final step is to break the silicone adhesive bond and pull the sink out.
Undermount. This type of sink rests below your countertop and doesn't a seam that builds up gunk. Undermount sinks are heavy, and often require a silicone seal between the sink and your countertop. Installations costs between $350 and $1,500.
An angle grinder fitted with a diamond blade can be used to dry-cut sink cutouts or to make other short cuts in granite. An angle grinder with a 4-1/2-inch blade can comfortably cut 1-3/4-inch-thick granite. Use a drum wheel sanding attachment on the grinder to smooth the inside sink radiuses.
Replacing a kitchen sink is straightforward, but also a time-consuming task. There are sinks of all shapes, sizes and materials, some of which are trickier to work with than others.
Kitchen sink replacement is a DIY project that makes a big impact. Kitchen sinks get worn out over time due to daily use. A new sink renews the beauty of your kitchen and adds functionality to your space. Using a few tools, the right equipment and a little know-how, you'll be enjoying a new kitchen sink in no time.
You could replace your countertops without replacing the sink. BUT depending on the current condition of the sink, we recommend upgrading it. More often than not, people have to replace their sinks too. It also depends on whether you have an under-mount sink or a top-mount sink.
Stainless Steel Sinks for Granite Countertops
You can purchase a stainless steel sink for granite countertop in either an overmount or undermount design. Stainless steel is incredibly popular for sinks because it: Looks great with granite. Resists chipping and cracking.
After Your New Countertops are Installed
You'll likely be getting new sinks along with your new countertops. For best results, it's generally recommended to wait 24 hours after countertop installation before setting up the sink.
This is why removing a granite slab, once installed, is not ideal. It may even increase, rather than reduce costs if the reinstall gets complicated. You should always be wary about moving a granite slab once it's installed; that is a recipe for breakage, and unexpected costs. .
The cutout cost will depend on the size and shape of the hole and the countertop material. The more cutouts you have in your granite countertop, the more expensive it will be. The average cost for a basic sink cutout is $200, but it can range from $100 to $500. This charge comes on top of the fee for sink installation.
Granite Installation Cost
For labor alone, the cost is around $300 to $500, and it can even reach up to $1,000. Meanwhile, for edging and sink cut-out, there is an additional cost of $200 to $300 and $100, respectively. The other materials needed for installation will cost approximately $100 to $200.
You can replace an undermount sink to add a sleek, fresh feel to your kitchen or bath, plus it's a simple way to upgrade a room. Unlike a drop-in sink, there's no visible rim, crevice or lip to catch dirt with an undermount sink, making cleaning the counter easier.
Put a bead of silicone caulking around the rim of the sink using the caulking gun. Place the sink back into the hole in the granite and pull it up into place using a string wrapped through the drain.
Small-size granite sink cracks can be repaired at home without any professional help. For this, you would require several materials, such as: Black epoxy filler.
The support rod is usually encased in a polyester rodding glue that breaks down under prolonged contact with moisture. This breakdown along with the absorption of water into the underside of the granite creates all of the conditions necessary for the rod to corrode and begin to expand.
If you are getting natural stone countertops like granite and marble or even quartz, you can have either an overmount or undermount sink installed.
Keeping many things on a granite sink for a long time can cause stress. And this affects the strength of the sink due to uneven spread on pressure leading to cracks after a while. Also, avoid the temptation of stepping on the sink top to prevent fissures.