How to Install a New Bathroom Vanity Top

A new bathroom vanity top is a major design and functional consideration in a bathroom remodeling project. With a little guidance, installing a vanity top yourself is relatively easy and can save a great deal of money. Leave 2 days for this project to allow for adhesives to dry. Be aware that you may need more than one set of hands as you install the sink and move the new counter into place.

When choosing a bathroom vanity top, it is important to choose a material that is suited for the continuing exposure to water that comes with a bathroom application. Some possibilities for bathroom vanity surfaces are ceramic, stone (granite, slate) and solid surface (Corian, Formica)

Step 1 - Remove Existing Vanity

Remove the existing vanity surface. Then check the level of the vanity cabinet and use shims to level out a cabinet that is not even.

Step 2 - Clean

Clean the cabinet frame with a damp, clean cloth.

Step 3 - Fit

Check the fit of the backsplash, side splashes, and counter top.

Step 4 - Place the Counter

Place countertop face down on a soft clean cloth and clean the underside. Align the sink bowl with the precut hole on the underside of the counter top and trace an outline of the sink with a pencil. Then remove the sink and set it aside. Run a continuous bead of adhesive in the adhesive channel on the sink bowl. Finally, place the bowl face-down on the drawn guideline and leave overnight to dry.

Step 5 - Seal

This step involves sealing the bowl and installing the vanity top to the cabinet. First, apply silicon to the underside of the sink bowl. Install faucet and drain assembly. Wipe the top of vanity cabinet with damp cloth to remove dirt and apply a bead of silicone around top edges of the vanity cabinet. Then lower the top onto the cabinet. Wipe away excess caulk. Attach the drain pipe to the drain assembly and then attach the water supply lines to the faucet.

Step 6 - Back and Side Splashes

Install the back and side splashes. Test fit the backsplash to make sure of proper fit. Wipe the bottom of the backsplash and top of vanity with damp cloth to remove dust and dirt. Apply urethane adhesive on the unpolished side of the backsplash. Run a bead of clear silicone caulk on the vanity top edge where the backsplash is to be placed.

Step 7 - Caulk

Place the unpolished edge of the backsplash on the caulk and press against the wall and down to the installed vanity top. Slide back and forth to spread adhesive. Make sure the bottom of the backsplash is flush with the top of vanity top. Remove excess caulk and clean with a sponge.

Step 8 - Caulk Joints

Apply a thin bead of caulk around all joints. Installing a new bathroom vanity top can transform a bathroom. Doing it yourself is just a matter of having the right tools and materials on hand and taking the time to do it right.