Sinks are essential to any kitchen or bathroom, and they can also be convenient in other areas such as the laundry or utility room.
When it comes to the costs associated with installing a sink, a variety of factors come into play. Sink installation must be carried out by a licensed plumber, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it has to be expensive.
How Much Does a Sink Cost?
The first cost to consider is the sink itself.
You could pay as little as $50 for a small, basic bathroom drop-in basin. However, sinks can vary widely in cost depending on the brand, materials, quality, and style. Expect to pay up to $400 for a solid surface, designer bathroom basin.
In addition, you may also need to replace your taps. Again, there is a wide range of options available at varying prices. A basic bathroom mixer tap can cost $30 or less, while a high-quality designer tap set can cost over $100.
Kitchen taps start at under $40 but can go up to $500 or more for top-quality pull-out and spray mixer taps.
Types of Sinks
Here are the types of sinks available:
01 - Apron sinks
Because of their large size, apron sinks often require modified base cabinets for support. Your plumber may suggest using a carpenter for this work. In general, installing these types of sinks costs approximately $215.
02 - Tile sinks
Tile sinks are popular for their impressive finish, but they require a significant amount of work and time to complete successfully. You will usually also need the services of a tile setter. Installation costs for tile sinks are around $350.
03 - Stainless steel sinks
Stainless steel sinks can be installed in any area of the house or establishment. They do not rust easily, last a long time, and require low maintenance.
With their varied designs and sleek appearance, they remain a popular choice. Costs range from about $200 for a single-basin stainless steel kitchen sink to $3,000 or more for a prestige brand double-basin stainless steel sink.
04 - Metal-rimmed sinks
Metal rims are applied around the edge of the sink for various purposes. Since only the rim is added, installation fees are generally lower, at around $170.
05 - Wall-mounted sinks
These sinks do not require a cabinet underneath for support and are attached directly to the wall. The wall must be able to support the weight of the sink, so modifications to the wall and nearby pipes may be required.
Sink Mounting Options
There are several methods for installing and mounting a sink:
Overmount
Also known as “drop-in,” this option involves placing the sink into a pre-cut opening in the countertop. It is the easiest installation method and usually requires little to no modification to the countertop or cabinet underneath. This is the most budget-friendly option.
Undermount
Popular for kitchens, especially with granite countertops, undermount sinks provide a clean finish and make it easier to wipe debris directly into the sink. This installation requires more work than an overmount installation and typically takes about an hour longer.
Flushmount
With this method, the sink is installed so that it sits flush with the benchtop. Flushmount installations typically cost the same as undermount sinks.
Mark Thompson
How Much Does Sink Installation Cost?
There is not as dramatic a difference in installation costs as there is in the prices of sinks, basins, and taps.
The installation site can affect the cost, as some locations are easier to work with than others. Site preparation, the time required to complete the job, and the skill level involved will also influence the final cost.
Installers may quote rates as low as $40 per hour. Generally, installing a bathroom basin and tap set costs between $100 and $150, while kitchen sink installations tend to cost slightly more.
How to Reduce Sink Installation Costs
Here are some ways to keep your sink installation costs down:
- Be flexible with installation dates and times. A local plumber may offer a better price if they can schedule the job while working in your area.
- Have everything ready before the plumber arrives. This includes providing any materials and ensuring the work area is clear and tidy.
- Get competitive quotes from multiple plumbers.
- Schedule all plumbing work within the same time period rather than requiring multiple visits. If you are planning a bathroom or kitchen renovation soon, you may be able to delay installation so the cost is absorbed into the larger project.
- Purchase materials yourself instead of having the plumber supply them. If you are willing to shop around, this can significantly reduce costs, especially for expensive or specialty sinks, basins, and taps, leaving the plumber to focus solely on installation.
