installing small bath vanity

Figure A Figure B Figure C Figure D Figure E Figure F Figure G Figure H Figure I Figure J

Q: Our bathroom vanity has seen better days. I would like to replace it. Can you tell me how?

A: (Sharon Hanby-Robie, Ask DIY Remodeling expert) There are some great new styles on the market, and it's possible to find something in just about anyone's price range. I recommend that you replace the sink and countertop at the same time -- you can ruin a new vanity by trying to make your old countertop work on it.

Here are the steps you'll need to follow:

1. Shut off the water and disconnect the supply lines (figure A). Use a bucket to catch any water that drips from the supply lines and the p-trap (the white curved pipe in the center) (figure B).

    

    

2. Loosen the caulk between the vanity and the wall with a utility knife (figure C). You may have to go all the way down to the floor on the sides to remove all the caulk. Remove the countertop very carefully so as not to damage the wall (you may need a helper for this step, especially if the countertop is large).

    

    

3. Loosen the screws attaching the vanity to the wall (figure D). (A cordless screwdriver makes it easier to do this step.) Remove the screws, being careful not to strip them. Remove the old vanity.

    

    

4. Locate the wall studs and make marks for new screw holes (figure E). (Make the marks for the studs a little higher than the top of the new vanity.)

    

    

5. It's very important to make sure the vanity is flush against the wall. You'll need to use shims and a carpenter's level for this step.

    

    

6. Once the vanity is positioned, attach it to the wall with 2-1/2" wallboard screws (figure F).

    

    

7. Tip: Before you attach the new vanity top, install the new faucet. It will make the job go faster in the long run -- and it's one less time that you'll have to get under the sink!

    

    

8. Use tub-and-tile caulk to secure the vanity top to the base (figure G).

    

    

9. Reconnect the plumbing (figure H) (this is also a good opportunity to replace the p-trap). Teflon (T) tape makes the connections easier and tighter (figure I).

    

    

10. Carefully apply a thin line of caulk around the countertop edges (figure J ). Be meticulous with this job -- the caulk will be highly visible, so neatness really counts.