How To Install a Bathroom Vanity and Sink

A new bathroom vanity can give you more counter space and better storage options. Installing a vanity is almost the same as installing a kitchen cabinet. Because vanities tend to get a lot of use and are exposed to moisture, pay particular attention to the quality of construction.

This project guide outlines the steps to install a single sink bathroom vanity. If you are installing a series of cabinets, you may also want to refer to the Installing Kitchen Cabinets Project Guide.

Additionally, you can view our other installation videos from our Bathroom Vanity series, How To Install a Vanity Top and Faucet and How To Install a Bath Vanity Light on each corresponding project guide.

Step 1: Put the bathroom vanity in place and trace its outline on the wall
Trace outline of vanity to screw it Use a stud finder to locate the studs to which you will screw the vanity. Then, with a level, draw lines along the studs from the floor to the top of the vanity. These lines will help you spot where to place the screws in Step Three below.
 
Step 2: If the vanity has a back, measure, mark and drill holes through it for drain pipes and supply pipes
place the vanity in position
Then put the vanity in place.

Set a level on top of the vanity and shim at the floor until the vanity is level. Then hold the level against the edge of the unit and shim at the wall until it is plumb.
 
Step 3: From the inside, attach the vanity to the wall by screwing 3-inch drywall screws through the mounting rail into the studs
Attach the unit to the wall by screwing
Check for level again before trimming the shims flush with a utility knife. If it is not level, add shims.

If there are large gaps at the wall or floor, attach quarter-round molding along the wall or floor edge with finishing nails.
 
Step 4: Install faucet into the bathroom vanity sink
Install a faucet vanity Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install the faucet and drain assembly to the vanity top.
 

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Step 5: Secure the bathroom vanity top
Properly screw the vanity top to the vanity Dry-fit the vanity top over the vanity. Make sure the wall is straight and that there are no gaps between the wall and the vanity top. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to properly secure the vanity top to the vanity. Most installations require a small bead of silicone caulk applied to the top of the bathroom cabinet before the vanity top is set into position. Firmly press the vanity top into position; check for level, evenness (symmetry) across the front of the vanity, and make sure the vanity top is flush to the wall. Add backsplashes and sidesplashes following the manufacturer’s instructions.
 
Step 6: Reconnect water supply
Reconnect water supply lines Reconnect the faucet supply lines (or install new lines) to the water supply and reconnect the trap. Turn on the water supply or the home’s main water supply and test for leaks. Install the pop-up drain.