How to Measure a Kitchen Sink: What to Know

Here are a few helpful tips to show DIYers how to measure a kitchen sink

Selecting a kitchen sink may seem on its face a simple decision. But once you get to the point of choosing a sink, things can quickly become more complex if you don’t know how to measure a kitchen sink. What are your preferences when it comes to functionality, what worked with previous sinks, and what didn’t work? When it comes to the theme of your kitchen, do you have a design you’re trying to capture, or are you just buying a sink? These should all be part of the decision, but the first step – determine sink size and mounting option.

If you’re replacing your kitchen sink or working within an existing design, then your cabinet or sink size has already been determined. If you’re just starting your project, your first step is to define your cabinet size. Why is this important? Because your cabinet size is the one element of your decision that cannot be changed and your options are limited to a sink that will fit within your available space.

Let’s start with a fundamental question. Are you replacing a sink, selecting a sink to finalize your renovation project or new build, or are you just in the beginning stages of considering a renovation project?

Replacing a Sink

In this scenario, cabinet size isn’t a factor. Why? Because your countertop was cut to match a specific sink size. In this case, you need to measure your existing sink to determine the length, width, and depth of your current sink. Picking a smaller or larger sink isn’t an option.

Now you have to determine if your current sink is an under-mount or top-mount sink. Visually inspect your countertop, is your countertop exposed, or is the rim of the kitchen sink sitting on top. If your countertop is exposed, you have an under-mount sink.

Ensure you place your measuring tape at the top of the sink and measure the length (side to side), width (front to back), and depth (from the middle of the basin to the top of the sink). Length and width measurements must be centered on the sides and front or back, respectively. Don’t forget to measure depth, as your existing plumbing will determine the depth of your sink.

One important feature to note during this process is the position of the drain on your current sink. For example, if the drain hole is centered, you should choose a replacement sink with a centered drain hole, or you will have to modify your plumbing.

With your measurements in hand, you’re ready to start shopping.

Selecting a Sink for Your Renovation or Remodel

If you’re working with a contractor, then they can quickly provide you with the size of your cabinet.  If you’re a weekend warrior or working on your first do-it-yourself project, then you’ll have to break out the measuring the tape to find out your cabinet size. You can do this by locating your kitchen sink base cabinet, measuring from the back to the front edge to get depth. Now you can measure from side to side to find the length. Plumbing is a crucial factor here, as it will help determine the depth of your sink. Remember, standard sinks will be centered, with the countertop on all sides of your sink, so you can’t use the full depth, leave some room. Standard cabinet size tends to range between 24, 27, 30, 33, and 36 inches. Once you have determined the size of your cabinet, you now have the first criteria for starting your process of selecting your next sink.

Starting a Renovation/Remodel Project

In this case, you can choose the kitchen sink that you like best and ensure that your contractor designs the kitchen sink base cabinet to accommodate your preferred sink.

Time to Start Shopping

Visit AlloraUSA today to see the variety of options available to bring your ideas to life.

Tags: kitchen sink