Installing a pedestal sink is a great way to add style and sophistication to your bathroom. With its clean, minimalist look, a pedestal sink can make a small bathroom feel more open and spacious. While installing a pedestal sink is a bigger project than mounting a vanity, it’s still a DIY job that most handy homeowners can tackle with some planning and patience. This guide will walk you through all the steps needed for a successful pedestal sink installation.
Choosing the Right Pedestal Sink
The first step is to choose the right pedestal sink for your space. There are a few key things to consider:
Size
Measure the area where you plan to install the sink and make sure to get a pedestal sink that will fit comfortably. It should have several inches of clearance on all sides. An average bathroom can usually accommodate a 22″ to 24″ pedestal sink.
Style
Pedestal sinks come in a range of styles, from vintage to modern. Choose one that matches your bathroom’s decor. Traditional pedestals have a flared base while contemporary styles tend to have straight lines.
Materials
Pedestal sinks are most commonly made from vitreous china, ceramic, marble, or cultured marble. Vitreous china is very durable, easy to clean, and inexpensive. Ceramic and marble give a more upscale look but are prone to chips and stains.
Price
Pedestal sinks can range from $200 to over $1,000. Set a budget before shopping to narrow down your options.
Once you choose the sink, purchase the matching pedestal base when available. This will guarantee the right fit and proportions.
Gather the Right Tools and Materials
Installing a pedestal sink requires some specialized plumbing tools and materials. Be sure to have these on hand before starting:
- Basin wrench – to reach and turn nuts in the tight space behind the sink
- Adjustable wrench
- Teflon tape
- Plumber’s putty
- Silicone caulk
- Pipe wrench
- Hacksaw – for cutting pvc pipes
- Tubing cutter – for cutting copper pipes
- Safety glasses and work gloves
You will also need the basic supplies for installing new plumbing:
- P traps, slip joints, elbows, and extension pipes
- Drain assembly and pop-up stopper mechanism
- Supply lines and angle stop valves
- 2 x 4 bracing lumber and screws
Prep the Area for Installation
With the right sink and supplies in hand, you can start prepping for installation:
Turn Off Water Supply
Locate the shutoff valves for the hot and cold water lines under the bathroom sink and turn them both off. Turn on the faucet to release any pressure and ensure the water is completely shut down.
Remove Existing Sink
If you are replacing an old sink, unhook it from the wall, disconnect the plumbing, and remove it. Also take out any cabinetry or vanity that surrounded it.
Check Drain and Supply Lines
Inspect the existing drain pipe and supply lines. Make sure the drain pipe is 1.5″ diameter and supply lines are 1⁄2″ diameter. Replace if necessary.
Install Blocking
A pedestal sink is not anchored to the wall like a vanity so it needs extra support. Install 2 x 4 blocking between the wall studs where the sink basin will sit.
Mark Plumbing Locations
Following the sink specifications, mark where the drain and supply lines should come up out of the floor. They should line up with the drain and supply openings on the bottom of the sink basin.
Install Drain Assembly
The drain and p-trap assembly should be installed first:
Attach Drain to Sink
Apply plumber’s putty around the drain opening on the sink bottom then insert the drain. Tighten the mounting nut from below using a basin wrench.
Add Trap Adapters
Attach a slip nut elbow to the drain tailpiece, followed by a 12-16” p-trap arm. Add another elbow to the bottom. Tighten all slip joints securely.
Connect Drain Pipe
Slide the loose drain assembly down to connect with the drain pipe stub-out in the floor. Adjust to the needed height and tighten the nut.
Secure Trap
The p-trap assembly should be immobilized so it doesn’t shift when attaching supply lines. Use hangers or metal strapping attached to the floor joists.
Install Faucet and Supply Lines
With the drain in place, shift focus to the water supply:
Mount the Faucet
Place plumber’s putty around the faucet holes on top of the sink. Lower the faucet into place and press down firmly. From below, slide on the retaining nuts and tighten.
Connect Supply Hoses
Attach flexible supply lines to the faucet tailpieces, using 1⁄2” male-to-male connectors. Tighten by hand first then give an extra 1⁄4 turn with pliers.
Run Supply Lines Down
Feed the supply hoses down through the pedestal base, leaving enough slack to reach the supply stubs.
Attach Shutoff Valves
Connect the supply lines to 1⁄2” angle stop valves using compression fittings. Position valves close to the stubouts.
Secure Supply Lines
Anchor the supply hoses to the 2×4 brace using pipe straps. This prevents strain on the faucet connections.
Mount the Pedestal Sink
With the plumbing installed, it’s time to secure the pedestal sink in place:
Seal the Sink Bottom
Lay a thick ring of silicone caulk around the edge of the drain opening and anywhere the sink rim will contact the wall.
Lift Into Place
Lift the sink basin and place the rim flush against the wall, centered over the drain pipe. Have someone hold it in place.
Attach Pedestal
Slide the pedestal base into position so it lines up with both the sink and plumbing. Push it firmly against the wall.
Secure With Braces
On one side, drive 2″ wood screws through the pedestal into the 2×4 blocking. Install L-brackets on the opposite side.
Make Plumbing Connections
From below, hook up the drain trap arm to the p-trap assembly. Then connect hot and cold supply lines to the angle stops.
Caulk Edges
Apply a neat bead of silicone caulk around the back rim of the sink where it meets the wall. Smooth with a wet finger.
Finish the Installation
Once the sink is firmly installed, put the finishing touches on the job:
Test for Leaks
Turn on the water supply and check below for drips at plumbing joints. Tighten as needed. Plug the drain and fill sink to check for leaks.
Apply Silicone Around Base
Caulk the gap between the pedestal base and finished floor with silicone. Smooth excess with a putty knife. Allow to fully cure.
Install Pop-Up Drain Stopper
Follow manufacturer instructions to install the pop-up drain stopper mechanism inside the drain pipe below the sink.
Make Final Plumbing Adjustments
Adjust any supply lines or p-trap components to eliminate sagging and ensure proper drainage slope.
Remove Debris and Clean Up
Wipe up any plumber’s putty, caulk, or other debris. Seal grout lines if needed. Run water and check for proper flow.
That covers the key steps for how to install a pedestal sink. Take your time, follow codes, and ensure leak-free joints for a long-lasting installation. The minimal look of a sleek pedestal sink can greatly enhance your bathroom style when installed properly.
FAQs About Installing a Pedestal Sink
What tools do I need to install a pedestal sink?
You will need basic plumbing tools like a basin wrench, Teflon tape, hacksaw, adjustable wrenches, a tubing cutter, safety glasses, and work gloves. Other essentials include a caulking gun, wood screws, L-brackets, silicone caulk, and 2 x 4 bracing lumber.
How do I anchor a pedestal sink that does not touch the wall?
Install wood blocking between the wall studs where the sink will go. As you mount the sink, drive long wood screws through the back of the pedestal into the blocking to hold it firmly in place.
Should I get my pedestal sink professionally installed?
While it is a more complex DIY than a basic vanity, installing a pedestal sink is a project a handy homeowner can tackle. If you are uncomfortable doing the plumbing work, you can hire a plumber just for that portion.
How far should a pedestal sink stick out from the wall?
There should be 2-3 inches of space between the back of the sink bowl and the wall. This allows enough room for faucet clearance, caulking, and minor adjustments.
Can I mount my pedestal sink on drywall without it cracking?
No, drywall alone cannot support a pedestal sink. You must open the wall and install wood blocking between studs secured to the wall framing before installation.
How do I stop my pedestal sink from wobbling?
Use silicone caulk between the base and floor for stability. Make sure the pedestal is securely screwed into the wall blocking. Add metal sink rail braces on both sides if needed.
Conclusion
Installing a pedestal sink upgrades your bathroom to a more stylish, open look and feel. By taking time to properly install the plumbing and securely brace the sink, your pedestal installation can provide many years of durable service. Pay close attention to the drain assembly, use quality fittings, and thoroughly caulk all edges to prevent leaks. While it takes more effort than a vanity sink, a pedestal sink offers a clean, minimalist look that can greatly enhance your bathroom design.