Measure & Install Guide
Measure for your Farmhouse Sink
If you’re thinking about installing a farmhouse apron sink, you’re going to have to take a few measurements. Let’s go through the basics you’ll have to do to choose and install an apron sink in your kitchen.
Taking the First Measurements
You don’t have to have a ton of counter space to install a farmhouse apron sink, as they are made in a range of sizes. If you’re not doing a massive remodeling job, including a new counter, drawers, and cabinets, you’re going to have to make sure that the sink will fit, not only into the counter, but also that it will be shallow enough to allow space for the cabinet doors under it to open and close freely.
Measure the Length
Take a measuring tape and measure from the back of the counter, against the wall, to the edge closest to you. This will be the longest that the sink can be and still fit properly. Remember, though it’s okay for a farmhouse apron sink to jut out a little bit from the front face of the counter, if it’s too big, it won’t line up with your pipes, and it won’t work.
Measure the Width
Now that you have the length measurement for the sink, it’s time to measure the width. You might think that the sink can be as wide as you like. After all, look at all of that wide open counter space. If you’re thinking this, you’ve forgotten something: the drawers to either side of your sink.
Place the tip of your tape measure against the outside right edge of the drawer to the left of your sink and measure to the nearest (left) edge of the drawer to the right of your sink. Subtract two inches from this measurement.
This will give you a buffer between the drawers and the new sink. It would be both impractical and unattractive if your new sink butted right up against the drawers next to it. Leaving an inch of space on either side is enough to look aesthetically appealing. This will be the widest your sink can be.
Measure the Depth
As a warning, this is the point at which you may have to make a decision about your cabinet doors. Measure from the top of the counter top to the top of the cabinet beneath it. Subtract one to two inches from this measurement, depending on how much buffer space you want to leave, and this will be as deep as your sink can be.
If you are not happy with this measurement, you’re going to have to look at a little bit more remodeling than just cutting your counter top and removing your false drawers. You’re going to have to remove your cabinet drawers and replace them. Keep this in mind as you move forward and start shopping for a farmhouse kitchen sink that appeals to your style.
If you’re uncertain about any of these steps, don’t hesitate to call a professional to measure and install your sink for you. There’s no shame in getting the job done right for you if you’re unsure of your carpentry and plumbing skills.
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Options to Install your Farmhouse Sink
Under-Mount:
Flush-Mount:
The countertop and sink are at the same height creating a smooth surface. Note, the silicone sealer will be visible.
Top-Mount:
The sink sticks out above the countertop which buts up against the side of the sink. Decide how high you want your sink to stick out.
Step 1: Countertop Cut-Out
Use the sink upside down to trace the cut out of the countertop. Use precise measurements.
Step 2: Cabinet Cut-Out:
Cut the front of the base cabinet according to the front apron of the farm sink. Please note that the front of the sink is slightly tapered. This means that the width of the top is slightly wider than that of the bottom. You should make a template using heavy paper or carton so that your cabinet is cut at the same angle as the sink.
Step 3: Supporting the Sink:
Mount the undermount installation kit (ABUMSB) to the inner side walls of your cabinet. We then recommend putting plywood on the rods to create a large smooth flat surface. Drill the necessary drain holes. If you did not purchase the kit you will need to create a custom support using 2x4's.