Your Ultimate Guide to Removing a Pedestal Sink

Thinking of removing your old pedestal sink, but unsure of where to begin? Follow our step-by-step guide.

Pedestal sinks are similar to ordinary sinks in appearance, but there are a few major differences to be aware of. You can ensure that your goal is reached if you have a better understanding of pedestal sinks and how they function.

The process of removing a pedestal sink prior to installing the new one in your floor space is quite simple. It entails shutting off the water supply lines, removing the mounting nuts, and safely moving it out of the way with some help. When you want to remove a pedestal sink from the water supply, there are more nuts to take away.

Our easy-to-follow steps will make the procedure go quickly and smoothly. Removing your pedestal sink will provide you with a variety of benefits as well as the necessary access. To discover more about the process, keep reading our guide.

Why you might need to remove your sink

There are a variety of reasons why you might want to get rid of your pedestal sink and switch it with a new feature. It is important to understand why you may need to remove the sink. Some of the most common reasons for removing your pedestal sink are listed below.

Spoiled

Even while we never want it to happen, it is sometimes unavoidable that your sink may become damaged. You will almost certainly have to remove it if this is the case. You can choose to replace or repair it.

Removing your pedestal sink will give you access to the damaged sections of the sink. If the problem is with the water lines, you can also access them. You'll have to remove the sink from its position to repair most of the broken components.

You want to change it

You may want to fast-forward and replace your sink before anything happens to it. This could be done as an upgrade, repairing minor damages, or simply a change in style. You could opt for a more modern design if you previously had a classical choice, or whatever suits the room.

If you wish to be successful in replacing pedestal sinks, you must first remove it. Replacing your old sink should be viewed as a chance to try something new. You can choose a style that complements your space whilst also providing the functions you require. If you need a new pedestal sink for a small bathroom perhaps, then the storage space and cabinet need to be taken into account.

Maintenance

Your pedestal sink may need to be serviced at some point. This could be due to a cosmetic issue or a problem with functioning. If your pedestal sink is giving you trouble, you may need to remove it to figure out what's wrong.

If you've hired a professional to service your sink, they may need to remove it. Maintaining your pedestal sink can extend the life of it. It may also lead to increased functionality. Sink height should be thought about.

Remodelling

Another reason you might want to remove your pedestal link is if you're redesigning or even moving the location of your bathroom entirely. This is a common reason, especially if you plan on upgrading your home. If you're switching rooms, you'll need to move your pedestal sink, as well as taking out things like the old vanity unit, plumbing, a cabinet, countertop and more storage.

It's even more critical that you understand everything there is to know about shifting your sink. You risk damaging your pedestal sink if you don't know what you're doing. Before you move your pedestal sink, be sure you know what you're doing and use the actual moving as the final step.

What is the process like to remove a sink?

Step 1

Turning off the water supply is the first step in removing your pedestal sink. This is necessary before performing any maintenance or removal. When you remove the sink, you don't want the water to spray everywhere and you don't want to be sorting out further plumbing repairs.

Unscrew both hoses that link the sink to the water source to cut off the water supply. We'd advise that you put a bucket under the hose before you do this. This will ensure that your floor is not harmed by water. This step may necessitate the use of adjustable pliers. Be careful with your space in small bathrooms.

Step 2

A p-trap is connected to a drain stub-out on each pedestal sink. Before you remove your pedestal sink, you'll need to loosen and release this using tools. You may be able to loosen it by hand in many cases. If not, you should carry out this task with adjustable pliers or a wrench perhaps. Once you've loosened the nut, remove it from the wall.

Step 3

A silicone seal will be found around the back of a well-installed pedestal sink. The pedestal sink should also have a seal at the bottom. If you wish to remove the sink, you'll need to remove this. A utility knife is the most suitable tool for this.

Carefully cut the seal that secures the sink to the floor and the wall with the utility knife. Cut around the perimeter and detach.

Step 4

You'll need two individuals for step 4, where the mounting nuts should be unscrewed. The nuts that secure the sink to the floor are located here. Loosening these may put the sink at risk of tipping over so before you begin, get someone else to hold the sink for you.

Start unscrewing the mounting nuts while the sink is still in place. The sink will be able to move around more freely as a result of this. After the nuts and screws have been removed, carefully remove the sink.

Step 5

You can proceed to the following step once the sink has been removed from the wall and floor. The pedestal sink should be placed upside down on a sturdy table or workstation. You will be able to remove the drain and other systems as a result of this.

Step 6

The base must be removed from the floor as the last step. Bolts are commonly used to secure this. Using pliers, remove it.

What do you need to do this?

Being prepared is the greatest approach to ensure that your installation project succeeds. Making sure you have all of the necessary supplies and tools is an important part of preparing. You'll need the following materials for this project: a bucket, a pair of adjustable pliers or an adjustable wrench, a utility knife, a workbench or a durable table.

You'll be able to complete all of the steps with these materials—make sure you obtain them all well ahead of time for your project. This way, when it's time to perform the work, you won't have to go looking for them.

Some frequently asked questions about removing a pedestal sink

Should I have my pedestal sink removed by a professional?

The answer completely depends on how confident you are in your own ability. It will also be determined by what you need to do with your pedestal sink. If the removal is straightforward, you can probably perform it yourself. If you are inexperienced and don't have that essential knowledge, you may wish to employ a plumber to carry out the removal and relocation and also to drill holes.

Is it possible to fix a pedestal sink without removing it?

It may be possible to repair your pedestal sink without removing it, if the damage is cosmetic and limited to the exterior. If the repair involves internal components, however, it will be essential to remove it. A new pedestal sink would be appropriate in this case.

What are the most popular pedestal sink placements?

Because of their compact size, pedestal sinks are commonplace in bathrooms around the world. As a result, they're ideal for compact bathrooms and utility rooms with a water supply.

How do I repair the flooring underneath a pedestal sink?

The bottom section of a pedestal is usually not screwed down. In most situations, a wall bracket holds the sink piece in place, while the pedestal portion is kept in place by its weight and a bead of sealant at the bottom. You should remove the sealant under the sink bowl and around the bottom stand to gain access to the pedestal sink. Carefully remove the sink and slide the pedestal out after that.

The sink basin is normally installed with a bracket on the wall, and it detaches from the wall by lifting it—the weight of the sink is the sole thing that keeps the pedestal on the bottom of the sink. Then, lift the sink off the pedestal by about 1/2 inch as someone else slides the pedestal out and replace the sink on the wall bracket.

If you want to remove a pedestal sink, it isn't as difficult as it sounds and this essential guide will help you through the process. However, if you are a novice when it comes to DIY and would prefer not to touch anything that involves water, you can always employ a plumber. You can find out how much it costs to replace a sink in our bathroom cost guide.