Installing Sink Baskets
How to install a sink basket. The way I do it so I don't have leaks or do I have to go back to fix a leak.
Installing a sink basin / basket isn't hard at all, installing it the right way that is. When I'm installing a basket I'm not just installing it by it self. Chances are I installed the whole kitchen. So making sure I install something so important that can leak all over unnoticed until it's to late. You bet I'm going to do it right.
Besides even a small leak will cause embarrassment to my self not to mention having to go back to fix it.
These can range in price from a few bucks to the most I even installed was a Koehler for about 60. Yea that's a bit much. Then one showed below cost 30. and that's a good one. Just don't ever buy a plastic one. These are cheap and will crack, warped and just leak all over the place.
Make sure that the hole is straight and flat. more so if your sink is new. This area is known damage during shipping. If it's not right either buy a new sink or return it.
Making sure it's clean and dry.
Now you'll need some plumbers putty. Roll some out into something like a 1/2 roll. Place the putty around the basin as shown with just a little pressure making sure it holds on.
Now it's time to insert it into the sink hole. Just make sure when you push it in you do so nice and even. Other wise to much putty can be pushed out on the sides.
Now it's time to install the rubber seal, paper friction disc and nut as shown. While holding the basin with one hand reach in with the other, assuming you have two hands and install the seals and nuts. Now you wont be able to just tighten the nut up once. I like to tighten it by hand as tight as I can get it letting the putty get squeezed out from the top and then a about 5 minutes later tighten it again. This is where many fail by just tighten it once thinking that they are done. The thing here is the putty is very thick and needs sometime to even more squeeze out. Once it's nice and tight you will only be left with a small amount behind, but. It's all even and sealed.
That's it. Now your a pro. Always check for leaks. Make sure you run the water at different areas in the sink so the water will be able to hit all areas of the basin. Also check for tightness tomorrow.
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