How to Install a Pedestal Sink

Written by
Wilson Weaver
Updated 01/21/21
Country House

John Keeble / Getty Images

Overview
  • Working Time: 1 - 2 hrs
  • Skill Level: Intermediate
  • Estimated Cost: $150 to $400

If you're interested in a bathroom sink that's economical, simple to assemble, and best of all, a space-saver, a pedestal sink might be right for you. Pedestal sinks are ideal for small bathrooms, half-baths, and powder rooms. They're easy to install, too. Once you unbox the sink, you should have it installed and working in less than two hours.

Basics of Pedestal Sinks

Pedestal sinks are made of two major parts: the sink basin and the pedestal. The upper sink basin rests on top of the vertical pedestal. This pedestal usually is three-sided and hollow. This hollow space helps to hide the P-trap drainage pipes.

The pedestal sink's basin appears to rest on top of the pedestal. Actually, a metal anchor strip attached to the wall with sturdy lag bolts provides most of the support. The back of the basin hooks over this hidden anchor.

Pedestal sinks help provide more space in cramped bathrooms than do vanity cabinets. Though they do offer storage space, vanity cabinets are large and bulky. Pedestal sinks have no storage.

Safety Considerations

Pedestal sinks can be top-heavy if not installed correctly. Because the porcelain basins are so heavy, they can injure you if they fall. Make sure that the basin securely connects with the back wall. Do not overtighten the bolts as this may break or chip the basin or pedestal.

What You'll Need

Equipment / Tools

  • Pliers
  • Bucket
  • Utility knife
  • Hammer
  • Cordless drill
  • Level
  • Pencil
  • Wrench set

Materials

  • Pedestal sink
  • Braided water supply lines
  • P-trap

Instructions

  1. Turn Off the Water

    Shut off your old sink’s water supply. You may find an intermediary water shut-off, such as a lever or a knob, located near the sink. Or you may need to locate the home's main water shut-off. Turn on the sink to release any pressure or water left in the water lines.

  2. Disconnect the Water Lines and Drainage

    If you currently have a vanity-sink combination, open the door and put the bucket under the sink's drainpipe. By hand (or with pliers, if needed), loosen the connections on the water supply lines. After they are loose, let them drain into the bucket.

    Loosen the P-trap drainpipe and disconnect it from the sink. Keep all of the materials together. If the materials are cracked, purchase a new P-trap.

  3. Remove the Vanity and Sink

    Use the utility knife to cut the caulk away from the counter, connecting the counter to the backsplash or wall. Under the sink, look for any screws that secure the vanity to the bathroom wall and unscrew them. Make sure that all plumbing lines are disconnected. Then, with an assistant, move the vanity cabinet from the wall and out of the bathroom.

    Important

    In most cases, you will need to fix the bathroom wall and flooring before installing the pedestal sink. You'll likely need to patch holes in the drywall and repaint the wall. If you need to supply additional wall support, do that first before repairing and painting the wall. Bathroom flooring may need to be installed in the spot formerly occupied by the vanity cabinet.

  4. Install Additional Wall Support

    Depending on your type of pedestal sink, you may need to add more support within the wall to help hold the basin to the wall. If so:

    1. Using the manufacturer's instructions, mark the intended height of the basin on the wall.
    2. Cut out the drywall in the marked area to reveal the wall studs.
    3. Cut a piece of two-by-four to fit horizontally between two of the studs.
    4. Fit the two-by-four into place. The fit should be tight, but not tight enough to bow out the studs.
    5. Nail the two-by-four into the studs from the sides, two nails per side.

  5. Center and Mark the Pedestal Sink

    Locate the center of the sink and mark it on the floor. Dry-fit the basin onto the pedestal. Slide the two against the wall. Put the anchor in place, underneath the back of the basin. Mark the drill points on the wall with the pencil.

  6. Secure the Basin Anchor

    Move the pedestal and basin away, removing the basin from the pedestal to avoid it falling off since it is unsecured. Pre-drill holes in the wall for the anchor. The holes should be slightly smaller than the lag bolts. Place the anchor over the holes. Tighten the anchor to the wall with the lag bolts provided by the manufacturer. Do not overtighten the bolts.

  7. Assemble the Sink

    Slide the pedestal and basin against the wall. Hang the basin over the anchor, with the pedestal next slid underneath it. Attach as recommended by the manufacturer's instructions.

    Attach the faucet and drain to the sink. Attach the water supply lines and the P-trap. Turn on the water supply.