How To Install a Bathroom Vanity

Installing a bathroom vanity may seem like a daunting task, but with a little planning and the right tools, it’s easier than you might think! Whether you’re refreshing your bathroom or doing a complete renovation, installing a new vanity can make a big difference in the overall look and functionality of your space. In this easy-to-follow guide, we’ll walk you through the process step by step, so you can confidently tackle the job yourself.

Tools You’ll Need:

• Adjustable wrenches
• Pipe wrench
• Locking pliers
• Hammer
• Chisel
• Drill with bits
• Hacksaw
• Utility knife
• Bucket
• Safety glasses and work gloves

Removing the Old Vanity

Before you can install your shiny new vanity, you’ll need to get rid of the old one. Follow these steps to make the removal as smooth as possible.

Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply

Start by turning off the water supply. You’ll usually find the valves under the sink inside the vanity. If not, turn off the water at the main valve in your home. Once the water is off, open the tap to relieve any leftover pressure in the lines.

Step 2: Remove the P-Trap

Using a pipe wrench or adjustable spanner, loosen the slip nut at the top of the P-trap (that U-shaped pipe under the sink). Remove the entire trap if necessary, but keep a bucket handy to catch any remaining water.

Step 3: Disconnect the Water Supply Lines

Next, disconnect the water supply lines from the valves. You might need a wrench for this, so have it ready. Keep your bucket nearby to catch any water that’s still in the lines.

Step 4: Remove the Vanity Top

Grab your utility knife and cut through any old sealant around the edges of the vanity top. Once that’s done, give the top a good tug to free it from the wall.

Step 5: Separate the Vanity Top from the Base

Some vanity tops are screwed down, while others are glued to the base. If yours is glued, use a hammer and chisel to carefully separate it. Try working from the inside if you plan to reuse your sink or vanity top.

Step 6: Remove the Vanity Base

Finally, remove any screws securing the vanity base to the wall, then pull the vanity out. Pro tip: If you’re planning on rerouting plumbing, painting, or adding wall tiles, now’s the perfect time to do it.

Installing the New Vanity

With your old vanity out of the way, it’s time to bring in the new one! Follow these steps to ensure a smooth installation.

Step 1: Mark the Placement

Start by marking the outline of your new vanity on the wall. Measure and mark the height and width at several points to ensure everything lines up properly.

Step 2: Prepare the Vanity for Plumbing

Our vanities at Ross’s Discount Home Centre come with solid backs, so you’ll need to cut holes for the plumbing. Measure the distance from the wall to the pipes, transfer those measurements onto the vanity, and use a hole saw or drill to cut appropriately sized holes.

Step 3: Remove the Doors and Drawers

To make installation easier (and avoid damaging the doors and drawers), remove them from the vanity before positioning it.

Step 4: Position the Vanity

Set the vanity in place, ensuring it’s aligned with your marks on the wall. Use a level to check that it’s straight both front-to-back and side-to-side.

Step 5: Secure the Vanity

Drill pilot holes through the back of the vanity into the wall. Depending on your wall type (drywall, plaster, brick, or tile), use the appropriate anchors and screws to secure the vanity firmly.

Installing the Vanity Top

Now that the vanity is in place, it’s time to install the top and reconnect the plumbing.

Step 1: Attach the Mixer Tap

Before setting the vanity top, assemble your mixer tap or basin set, along with the plug and waste. It’s easier to do this now than after the top is installed.

Step 2: Apply Silicone Adhesive

Run a thin bead of silicone adhesive along the top rim of the vanity. Be careful not to get any adhesive on the face of the cabinet.

Step 3: Set the Vanity Top

With the help of a second person, carefully position the vanity top onto the base, ensuring the plumbing lines up. Let the adhesive cure before proceeding to the next step.

Step 4: Reconnect the Drain

Reconnect the drain using the original or new plumbing parts. If the tailpiece (the pipe connecting the drain to the P-trap) is too long, cut it to size with a hacksaw. If it’s too short, you can easily find extension kits at your local hardware store.

Step 5: Reconnect the Water Supply

Reattach the water supply lines to the valves. If your valves are old or faulty, it’s a good idea to replace them at this stage—but remember, this should be done by a licensed plumber.

Step 6: Apply Caulk or Silicone

Run a bead of bathroom caulk or silicone along the back and side edges of the vanity top where it meets the wall. Wipe away any excess for a clean finish.

Step 7: Test for Leaks

Turn the water back on and check for leaks around the valves and drain. Tighten connections or make adjustments as needed.

Step 8: Reattach Doors and Drawers

Once everything is secure and leak-free, reattach the vanity doors and drawers, and you’re done!

Conclusion

Installing a bathroom vanity is a great way to freshen up your bathroom and improve its functionality. By following these easy steps, you’ll have your new vanity in place in no time. Whether you’re upgrading for style or practicality, remember that at Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we offer a wide selection of freestanding vanities, double vanities, floating vanities and bathroom products to suit any design – we even have waterproof vanities for family bathrooms. Now, go ahead and enjoy your refreshed bathroom—one step closer to the bathroom of your dreams!

For those who prefer to watch and learn, check out this handy video tutorial from Lowe’s Home Improvement for a visual step-by-step guide to installing a bathroom vanity.