Ready to ditch that outdated vanity and give your bathroom a fresh, new look? Installing a new vanity yourself can save you money and give you a great sense of accomplishment. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to DIY vanity installation, perfect for homeowners of all skill levels. We'll cover everything from removing the old vanity to connecting the plumbing, ensuring a smooth and successful project.
Tools and Materials
Before you start, gather all the necessary tools and materials. Having everything on hand will make the process much more efficient.
- New vanity with sink and faucet (or separate components)
- Adjustable wrench
- Basin wrench
- Pliers
- Screwdrivers ( Phillips and flathead)
- Utility knife
- Level
- Stud finder
- Tape measure
- Drill with drill bit set
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
- Caulk gun and silicone caulk
- Plumber's putty
- Teflon tape
- Shims
- Bucket
- Cleaning cloths
- Wall anchors (if needed)
Step 1: Removing the Old Vanity
Safety First! Before you begin, turn off the water supply to the sink. You'll typically find shut-off valves under the sink. If you don't have shut-off valves, you'll need to turn off the main water supply to your house.
- Disconnect the Water Supply: Place a bucket under the P-trap to catch any remaining water. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the nuts connecting the water supply lines to the faucet. Carefully disconnect the lines. Lowe's recommends having a bucket and towel ready for this step.
- Disconnect the Drain: Use pliers to loosen the slip nuts on the P-trap. Carefully remove the P-trap and drain extension.
- Remove the Faucet (if necessary): If you're replacing the faucet, disconnect it from the sink now. Use a basin wrench to reach the nuts that hold the faucet in place.
- Detach the Vanity from the Wall: Look for screws or nails that secure the vanity to the wall studs. Use a screwdriver or drill to remove them. You may need a utility knife to cut through any caulk sealing the vanity to the wall or floor.
- Remove the Old Vanity: Carefully lift and remove the old vanity. It may be heavy, so ask someone for help.
- Clean the Area: Clean the wall and floor where the old vanity was located. Remove any debris or old caulk.
Tip: Before disposing of the old vanity, consider if any parts can be salvaged, such as the faucet or hardware. You might be able to reuse them in another project.
Step 2: Preparing for the New Vanity
- Inspect the Wall: Check the wall for any damage, such as holes or cracks. Repair any damage before installing the new vanity.
- Locate the Studs: Use a stud finder to locate the wall studs behind the vanity area. Mark the location of the studs with a pencil. The Home Depot provides guidance on using a stud finder.
- Measure and Mark: Measure the width and height of the new vanity. Mark the location of the vanity on the wall, using the stud markings as a reference.
- Check for Plumbing: Ensure that the plumbing lines align with the openings in the new vanity. If necessary, make adjustments to the plumbing before installing the vanity.
Practical Example: If your new vanity is wider than the old one, you may need to relocate the plumbing lines. This is a more advanced project that may require the help of a professional plumber.
Step 3: Installing the New Vanity
- Position the Vanity: Carefully position the new vanity in the marked location.
- Level the Vanity: Use a level to ensure that the vanity is level. If necessary, use shims under the vanity to adjust the height.
- Secure the Vanity to the Wall: Drill pilot holes through the back of the vanity and into the wall studs. Use screws to secure the vanity to the wall. If you can't screw into studs, use appropriate wall anchors. Lowe's emphasizes the importance of using the correct anchors for your wall type (drywall, tile, or plaster).
- Install the Vanity Top (if separate): If the vanity top is separate, apply a bead of silicone caulk to the top edges of the vanity cabinet. Carefully position the vanity top on the cabinet and press down firmly. The Home Depot suggests using shims if the vanity doesn't have adjustable legs to ensure the top is level.
Tip: To make installation easier, remove the doors and drawers from the vanity before positioning it. Reinstall them after the vanity is secured to the wall.
Step 4: Installing the Faucet and Drain
- Install the Faucet: Follow the manufacturer's instructions to install the faucet. Typically, this involves inserting the faucet through the holes in the sink and tightening the mounting nuts from below.
- Connect the Water Supply Lines: Attach the water supply lines to the faucet, using Teflon tape to seal the connections. Tighten the connections with an adjustable wrench.
- Install the Drain: Apply plumber's putty to the underside of the drain flange. Insert the drain flange into the drain opening and tighten the locknut from below.
- Connect the P-Trap: Connect the P-trap to the drain extension. Tighten the slip nuts by hand.
Actionable Advice: Always use Teflon tape on threaded plumbing connections to prevent leaks. Wrap the tape clockwise around the threads.
Step 5: Connecting the Plumbing and Finishing Up
- Connect the Water Supply Lines: Connect the water supply lines to the shut-off valves. Tighten the connections with an adjustable wrench.
- Check for Leaks: Turn on the water supply and check for leaks at all connections. If you find any leaks, tighten the connections or reapply Teflon tape.
- Caulk the Seams: Apply a bead of silicone caulk along the back of the vanity where it meets the wall, and around the sink where it meets the countertop. This will prevent water from seeping behind the vanity and causing damage. Lowe's recommends using a caulk finishing tool or a gloved finger dipped in water for a smooth finish.
- Install Hardware: Install any remaining hardware, such as drawer pulls or knobs.
- Clean Up: Clean up any debris and dispose of the old vanity properly.
Practical Example: If you notice any gaps between the vanity and the wall or floor, use quarter-round molding to cover the gaps. Attach the molding with finishing nails.
Cost Considerations
The cost of a DIY vanity installation can vary significantly depending on the price of the vanity itself and any additional materials required. According to Angie's List, a budget-friendly premade vanity can cost around $415, while custom vanities can range close to $4,000. Labor costs for professional installation can range from $200 to $1,000, making DIY a potentially significant cost-saver. Homewyse estimates the cost to install a bathroom vanity between $566 - $855 per vanity as of April 2025, which includes basic labor, material acquisition, and cleanup.
Factors that can influence the overall cost include:
- Type of Vanity: Pre-assembled vanities are generally less expensive and easier to install than custom vanities.
- Size of Vanity: Larger vanities require more materials and effort to install.
- Plumbing Adjustments: Rerouting plumbing can add significantly to the cost.
- Materials: The choice of countertop material (granite, quartz, etc.) can impact the overall cost.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You've successfully installed a new bathroom vanity. By following these steps, you've not only saved money but also gained valuable home improvement skills. Remember to double-check all connections for leaks and ensure that the vanity is securely fastened to the wall. With your new vanity in place, you can enjoy a more functional and stylish bathroom.
Next Steps: To further enhance your bathroom, consider updating the mirror, lighting, and accessories. A fresh coat of paint can also make a big difference. For more advanced projects, explore tiling the floor or installing a new shower.