How to Measure for a Kitchen Sink in 5 Easy Steps
So you want to install a new kitchen sink, but don’t know what size you need? And now you’re sitting there wondering “How do you measure for a kitchen sink?”.
Maybe you’re in the middle of a full kitchen renovation or you’re just having a quick revamp. Whatever the case, if you need a guide on measuring a kitchen sink, you’re at the right place.
The experts at Modern Living have put together a comprehensive guide on how to measure a kitchen sink in just fire easy steps.
What You Need to Know Before Measuring a Kitchen Sink
Different types of kitchen sinks are fitted differently. Therefore, it’s important to know what type of sink you currently have and what type of sink you’re planning to install.
The type of sink you choose will also slightly influence how you measure the space. For a standard inset sink for example you’ll have to measure to the edge of the rim. For an undermount sink, you need to measure to the edge of the opening since there is no lip around the sink. Belfast style sinks will also require you to take extra measurements due to their signature exposed front.
What you’ll need:
Measuring for a kitchen sink is a fairly simple task, but it’s handy to know what you need for the job. Here are all the tools you need:
- Tape Measure
- Level
- Paper
- Pencil
How to Measure for a New Kitchen Sink?
So how do you measure a kitchen sink? Here is our step by step guide:
Step 1: Measure Your Current Sink
The first step is to measure your existing sink. If you’re replacing it for a new sink of the same model, you’ll simply need to get a sink of the same size. If you’ve settled on a different type of sink, this will give you a good indication of the size range you should be looking for.
Take your tape measure and measure out the length and width of your existing sink. Make sure to write down the measurements on paper so you don’t forget them by the time you go to buy your new sink.
Step 2: Measure Available Space
If you want to install a sink larger than your current one, you need to measure the available space to determine how much bigger you can go without needing to install new countertop and cabinets.
For this you need to measure the width or length of your cabinet and its depth. The width of your cabinet is measured from the left to the right edge. To measure the depth start from the back to the front of the cabinet.
You normally want to allow for a margin around your sink. To determine the biggest size of sink you can fit, subtract around 10 cm from the width of your cabinet and 2.5 cm from the depth.
Step 3: Measure Sink Height
The next step is measuring the height or depth of your sink. For this you need to lay level or straightedge across the top of the sink. Measure from the deepest part to where the tape measure meets the level. Because most sinks don’t have a flat bottom to allow better drainage, it’s essential to measure the deepest part.
Remember: A new undermount sink will hang slightly deeper than the labelled depth because there will be a couple centimetres of countertop above it.
If your new sink will be deeper than your current one, make sure to double-check you have the available space under the cupboard. You don’t want your sink getting in the way of any structural elements such as plumbing pipes, garbage disposal or electrical connections.
When measuring for a Belfast style sink that sits flush with the cabinets around it, you’ll have to measure the space between the top of your countertop and the and the cupboard doors underneath.
Step 4: Measure the Cutout Hole
The last step of measuring your kitchen sink is measuring the cutout hole in your countertop. This is easiest done once you’ve removed your existing sink. Take measurements of the length and width of your cutout.
Depending on the type of sink you’re installing, the size of the cutout would vary. For an undermount sink, the cutout should measure the same size as the sink itself. For inset sinks, however, it should be slightly smaller due to the lip that rests on top of the counter.
Step 5: Confirm Your Measurements
You know the old saying “Measure twice, cut one”? You definitely want to apply this when measuring for your new kitchen sink installation. Once you have measured all the dimensions, double and even triple check to ensure there won’t be any unwanted gaps when you fit your new sink.
Shop for Your New Kitchen Sink with Modern Living
Not that you know how to measure a kitchen sink, it’s time to transform your kitchen by selecting the perfect one. Whether you’re looking for a contemporary or traditional kitchen sink, Modern Living has the perfect option for you. Browse our full range of modern kitchen sinks online!
Or if you want more kitchen inspiration, you’re welcome to pop into our Bradford kitchen showroom. If you need any assistance in finding the ideal size kitchen sink, speak with a member of our team. We’re always happy to help.
