If you’re thinking of installing or replacing a new sink, you need to take the measurements to ensure that you get the right size.
Before buying the sink, it’s best to have accurate measurements in order to pick the right size.
Before you start measuring, you need to determine what kind of sink you currently have.
The size of your current sink will give you the measurements that you need for the new one because it will have to be installed in the same space.
So, grab a measuring tape and follow our easy guide below to measure your kitchen sink.
Let’s dive right in!
Steps to Measure a Kitchen Sink
Whether you’re replacing your old, worn-out sink or looking to install a new type of sink, you’ll have to follow these four steps given below:
- Determine the scope of your project
- Measure your current sink’s length and width
- Measure the length and width of your counter and cabinet
- Measure the depth of the sink and kitchen cabinet
Now that you know what the four steps for measuring your kitchen sink are let’s dive in deeper and learn how to perform them.
Equipment that You Need
Here are the things that you need for measuring your kitchen sink:
- Measuring tape
- Level
- Pencil
- Paper
Step #1: Determine the scope of your project
In this step, you need to determine the scope of your sink installation project. Are you looking to replace your current sink with the same type of sink?
Or are you looking to install a new style? Deciding this will allow you to measure the sink accordingly.
If you’re replacing the existing sink with the same style of a sink, then you only need to measure the length, width, and depth of your existing sink.
This way, you can choose a new sink with the exact same measurements. If that’s the case, then your job is done. Just use a measuring tape to note down the three measurements.
However, if you’re looking to replace your current sink with a new type of sink or a new installation type, then you’ll have to follow the three additional steps below as well.
Step #2: Measuring your Current Sink’s Width and Length
In this step, you need to measure the width and length of the existing cutout of your countertop along with the depth of your existing sink.
If your existing sink is a drop-in sink, then you’ll probably have to go under the sink inside the cabinet in order to measure the opening from below.
If you measure the basin of the drop-in sink from above, the measurements will not be accurate as they won’t represent the accurate size of the opening.
Your replacement sink should be of the same length, width, and depth in order to fit in the space. If you want to install a sink that is deeper, then you’ll have to follow the two remaining steps below.
Step #3: Measure the Length and Width of the Counter and Cabinet
If you’re thinking of installing a new sink with a different depth, then the space available under your kitchen countertop and cabinet will determine how deep you can go.
In order to accurately record the countertop’s usable space, you need to measure it from the front edge to the wall.
Make sure you account for the thickness of the backsplash, if applicable. These measurements are the widest your new sink can be.
If you want to use all the available space, then you’ll have to use wall-mounted faucets that would also require you to make new holes in the wall and to move the plumbing lines.
If you’re going the DIY way instead of hiring a professional, then we recommend that you measure the base of the kitchen faucet and reserve that as countertop space for faucet holes and the drop-in sink’s rim.
If you’re taking measurements to replace your current sink with a farmhouse sink, then keep in mind that it is normal for this style of sinks to jut out from the kitchen counter slightly.
Now, you need to measure the interior length of the cabinet space. For that, you’ll have to go inside your cabinet and measure it from one side to the other.
Once you have that measurement, subtract around 4 inches from the total length in order to account for the hardware that will be applied for the mounting of the sink on each side.
Make sure that your measurements aren’t less than the minimum base cabinet width listed under the new sink’s specifications.
Step #4: Measure the depth of the sink and kitchen cabinet
In this step, we’ll teach you how to measure the depth of the sink and kitchen cabinet accurately. Place a level or a straightedge across the sink’s top.
Now, start measuring from the deepest part of the sink until the point of whether the measuring tape meets the straightedge.
In most cases, sinks font has a flat bottom surface to ensure better drainage, and that is why it’s important to measure from the deepest part of the sink.
Keep in mind that if you’re installing a new under-mount sink, it will be a little deeper than what is mentioned on the product’s label because there will be a couple of inches of the countertop above it.
If you wish to install a sink that is deeper than your current sink, then you must check under your cabinet to make sure that the new sink will not be obstructed by any structures such as electrical connections, plumbing pipes, or garbage disposals.
It has to offer clearance that is enough for drain assembly.
If your current sink is farmhouse style, then you will have to measure the distance from the top of your counter to the top of your cabinet doors that sit right underneath it.
This will allow you to calculate the maximum depth of a sink that you can have.
Sink Installation Types to Choose From
It is very important to choose the right type of kitchen sink for the space that you have. The type of kitchen sink and its installation has a huge impact on the daily functions of your kitchen.
So, it is essential that you choose a type that will last a long time without causing much trouble.
Having the right sink can make your life in the kitchen easier. All the routine tasks such as cooking, cutting, and cleaning become easier with the right type of sink.
Take a look at the different types of sinks that you can choose from when going sink shopping:
- Drop-in kitchen sinks
- Under-mount kitchen sinks
- Kitchen sinks with drainboards
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the process for measuring a replacement kitchen sink?
To measure a replacement kitchen sink, first determine the type of sink you currently have, which can be undermount, drop-in, or farmhouse.
Then, use a tape measure to get the length, width, and depth of the sink’s interior basin. Make sure to measure edge to edge, excluding any rims or lips that extend beyond the basin. Take note of the measurements, as they’ll help you find the right replacement sink size.
What are the standard dimensions for a kitchen sink?
Standard kitchen sink dimensions vary depending on the style of the sink. However, typical sizes are:
- Single basin sinks: 22 to 24 inches wide and 18 to 20 inches front to back
- Double basin sinks: 33 to 36 inches wide and 18 to 20 inches front to back
- Farmhouse sinks: 30 to 33 inches wide and 20 to 22 inches front to back
Keep in mind that these are general guidelines; individual sinks may have slightly different measurements.
How can I determine the correct cabinet size for a new kitchen sink?
To establish the correct cabinet size, measure the width, depth, and height of your existing sink cabinet. The width should be considered the most critical dimension, as it will determine the maximum size of a new sink.
Generally, the sink should be at least 3 inches smaller than the cabinet width to allow for proper installation and support. You should also make sure there’s enough space for plumbing and other accessories.
Which measurements are essential when selecting a deep kitchen sink?
When selecting a deep kitchen sink, the essential measurements are:
- The depth of the sink’s basin, which impacts the usable space and comfort of using the sink
- The height of the base cabinet, ensuring it can accommodate the depth of the sink
- The clearance between the bottom of the sink and the plumbing, allowing for proper drainage and installation
What is the typical cutout size for standard kitchen sink installations?
The typical cutout size for standard kitchen sink installations is slightly smaller than the sink itself to ensure a snug fit. For example, if you’re installing a 33-inch-wide sink, the cutout width might be around 32 inches.
The cutout should allow for the sink’s lip or rim to sit securely on the countertop. Manufacturers will often provide a template for the proper cutout dimensions.
How should I measure a sink’s depth to ensure proper fit within my kitchen design?
To measure the depth of a kitchen sink, place your tape measure at the top edge of the sink and extend it down to the bottom of the basin.
Make sure you measure the interior depth, which represents the actual usable space in the sink. Compare the measurement with your cabinet and plumbing space to ensure the sink will fit properly and function efficiently.
Final Thoughts
Measuring a kitchen sink isn’t a challenging feat. You can do it in no time if you know what you’re doing.
However, it’s important to know what type of measurements to take based on the type of sink that you intend on installing.
By reading through our guide carefully, you’ll have a better understanding of the type of measurements you need for your preferred style of the kitchen sink.
Make sure you do your research and find out what type of sink will work well for your kitchen.
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