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How To Install A Bathroom Vanity in 12 Steps

 

 
 
How To Install A Bathroom Vanity in 12 Steps
 
A new bathroom vanity can take the design of your space to the next level. Whether you are completing a full renovation or making a few changes for a fresh look, installing a new bathroom cabinet is an exceptional way to transform your single or primary bath.

Although installing a new bathroom vanity may seem like a daunting task, you can replace your cabinet and vanity top in no time with a bit of planning. A new vanity cabinet is the best way to gain more storage and counter space in your powder room. For extra room, shop by size for your new cabinet or consider a double-sink vanity style. Follow this guide for tips and advice on how to install the newest addition to your bathroom.

We recommend consulting professional help if you are unfamiliar with installing bathroom vanities and/or plumbing.
 
 

Tools:

Pencil
Pencil
Stud Finder
Stud Finder
Tape Measure
Tape Measure
Drill
Drill
Screwdriver
Screwdriver
Hammer
Hammer
Utility Knife
Utility Knife
Flashlight
Flashlight
Level
Level
Eye Protection
Eye Protection
Cleaning Clothes and Gloves
Cleaning Clothes and Gloves
 

Materials:

Bathroom Vanity
Bathroom Vanity
Vanity Top
Vanity Top
Single or Double Sink
Single or Double Sink
Drywall Screws
Drywall Screws
Faucet(s)
Faucet(s)
Sink Drain Assembly
Sink Drain Assembly
Silicone Sealant
Silicone Sealant
Wooden Shims
Wooden Shims
 
 

 1. Mark the New Vanity Placement

 
     
  Bathroom vanity with measurement markings Determine your vanity placement and mark the area on the wall where it will be installed. Ensuring the measurements will fit the size of the new vanity is critical before starting the installation.  
     
 

 2. Disconnect the Vanity Plumbing

 
     
  Disconnect the Vanity Plumbing Turn off the water supply at the sink or at your main shutoff valve and open the faucet to release any remaining pressure. Then, remove the hot and cold water supply lines and the drain trap (also known as the P-trap). Use a bucket to catch any water that drains out.  
     
 

 3. Remove the Old Bathroom Vanity and Repair the Wall

 
     
  Remove the Old Bathroom Vanity and Repair the Wall To remove the old vanity, use a utility knife to cut the sealant along the backsplash and carefully pull on the sink or vanity top to remove it from the wall. Remove the sink top from the vanity base, then use a drill to take the screws at the base of the vanity out and remove it from the wall.

After removing the old vanity from the wall, it’s the perfect time to repair any wall damage or paint parts of the wall that need touching up. You can also use this time to patch damaged flooring or paint the entire bathroom before moving to the next step.
 
     
 

 4. Mark the Wall Studs

 
     
  A stud finder marking wall studs Locate and mark the location of the studs to which you will fasten your new vanity. You can find studs by listening for a solid sound as you knock on the wall or by using a stud finder.

Note: If you cannot locate wall studs, use wall anchors, however ensure they are the proper anchors that work for your wall type.
 
     
 

 5. Prepare the Back of the New Vanity

 
     
  Back of a bathroom vanity If your vanity cabinet has a solid back, measure, mark and drill holes to accommodate drain pipes and supply pipes as necessary.  
     
 

 6. Place and Level the New Bathroom Vanity

 
     
  Bathroom vanity on the floor Place the vanity in the installation location, lining it up with the previously made markings. Verify that the vanity cabinet is level, both side-to-side and front-to-back. If the vanity is not level, use vanity feet (if included) or wooden shims to adjust as necessary.  
     
 

 7. Secure Vanity To The Wall

 
     
  Bathroom vanity on the floor with drill attaching it to the wall Attach the vanity to the wall with two cabinet screws. Drive them through the mounting strip in the back of the vanity cabinet and into each wall stud (or anchor).

Note: For undermount sinks, follow the installation instructions included with the sink before continuing to step 8.
 
     
 

 8. Install Sink Faucet

 
     
  Install Sink Faucet The sink faucet(s) must be assembled and attached to the vanity top before the countertop is installed. To install the faucet, first apply a bead of caulk around the bottom of the faucet(s) and attach the drain tap to the new sink drain line. Attach the water valve lines and tighten the faucet connections.

Note: A single-sink vanity will require one faucet and a double-sink vanity option will require two.
 
     
 

 9. Install Vanity Top

 
     
  Vanity top being installed and sealed on a bathroom vanity Install the integral sink/vanity top by applying a dot of silicone sealant on the corners of the vanity or with a thin bead of caulk. Position the vanity top onto the vanity and press firmly into place.

Wipe away any excess sealant with a damp cloth. If the sink is separate from the countertop rather than an integral piece, attach it to the countertop before installing it on the vanity.

Browse our selection of vanity tops from marble to quartz.
 
     
 

 10. Place and Seal Backsplash

 
     
  Bathroom vanity with the sink backsplash being installed If your vanity top has a separate side and/or back-splash, apply a bead of adhesive silicone sealant in a serpentine pattern on the back and press firmly into place and against the wall.  
     
 

 11. Install Sink and Seal

 
     
  Sealing a bathroom vanity and sink to the wall with silicone sealant Fill any gaps between the wall and backsplash, and vanity top and backsplash with silicone sealant. Wipe away excess sealant with a damp cloth. Install your semi-recessed or vessel sink according to the sink installation instructions.

Shop our wide selection of bathroom sinks.
 
     
 

 12. Reconnect Water Supply

 
     
  Reconnect Water Supply Reconnect the water supply lines to the faucet and install the drain to connect to the drain trap. Then, apply silicone caulk where the counter meets the wall to fill in any gaps. Last step is to turn on the water supply and test for any leaks. Use a bucket to catch any water in case of a potential leak.  
     
 
Watch our How to Install a Bathroom Vanity tutorial for visual guidance and additional information.
 

How To Install A Vanity

Step 1: Determine vanity placement.

Step 2: Locate and mark studs.

Step 3: Modify back to accomodate drain and supply pipes.

Step 4: Verify the vanity is level.

Step 5: Attach vanity to wall studs.

Step 6: Install top using silicone sealant.

Step 7: If included, install backsplash using silicone sealant.

Step 8: Use silicone to fill any gaps.

 

Complete the Look

 
  Replacing a bathroom vanity and sink requires finding the best combination of style and function to complement your space. Explore our entire selection of bathroom vanities from modern to rustic, for every need.

With this renovation, you may consider additional upgrades to finish your bathroom design. It’s the perfect time to update other elements such as the bathroom mirror or vanity lighting. Browse our Bathroom Mirror Ideas article to help find the perfect fit for your aesthetic. 

As you learn how to install a bathroom vanity, there may be other questions about the process. For all of your vanity buying needs, look to our Bathroom Vanity Buying Guide for ideas and inspiration.
 
     
 
 
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