Sink
Some sinks will come with a template for easy positioning and cutting of the hole in the worktop. If not follow the following instructions:
- Turn the sink upside down and position where it is going to be. It should be central to the cabinet containing the hot and cold water plumbing.
- Run a line with a pencil around the edges of the sink.
- Take the sink away and transfer the line inwards around 10mm. You now have two lines – an out one and an inner one. The inner line will be the cut line.
- It is possible to cut the worktop in place with a jigsaw, but it may be easier to cut this before the joins are sealed.
- Start with a drilled hole inside the second 10mm line and use this as the starting point.
- Seal edges with PVA to prevent possible water from getting in and swelling the worktop.
- As long as you are sure the sink fits correctly you can start permanently fitting it.
- A sealing strip will be supplied with the sink. This is placed around the top edge of the worktop between the two 10mm lines but close to the cut edge. Once the sink is dropped in place the sealing strip will hold it securely.
- The sink will come with retaining clips which are attached around the underside edge. Place these evenly all the way around. These are clipped to the cabinet. You may need to chisel away parts of the cabinet to ensure a correct fit. The clips should be tightened from the front to back and then side to side until it is totally secure.
Plumbing the sink
You should already have your plumbing in place for connecting to your new taps. Flexible connections are much easier to use. If your tap has solid pipework then you may decide to replace these.
- Drop the tap connection pipe through the hole in the sink. The tap will be fitted to the sink with the use of sealant. The taps will come with the correct fitting instructions for the type of tap being used. Tighten any fittings for securing the taps and make sure it is steady.
- Connect the flexible pipes to the hot and cold water supply pipes.
- Connect the overflow and waste fittings. These should be hand tightened only at this stage. Fit the U-bend and connect all this to the waste pipe outlet. Depending on the distance you may need a selection of different connections.
- Once fitted use adhesive on the joins.
Check all connections by running the hot and cold water in turn and checking carefully for any leaks or wetness. Check the overflow pipe by filling the sink to the overflow point.
Hob
This will be fitted in much the same way as the sink. Use the same method for cutting the worktop. It will be supplied with clips or clamps for securing to the underside. Make sure there is sufficient room for all gas or electrical fittings.
Appliances
- The backs of the cupboards should have already been cut to accommodate any pipework for washing machines and dishwashers etc.
- The appliances should be moved into position carefully (you may decide to wait until the flooring is done before doing this – but a dummy run is a good idea)
- Adjust the feet to the height needed and level the appliance.
- Connect the pipework checking the valves for leaking. Ensure the waste is also connected to the washing machine and dishwasher.
- Connect the electricity and ensure this also works correctly.
- For electric and gas ovens make sure they are fitted by a registered professional. Once in place however they will be secured by screws into the cabinet panels.