How To Measure A Kitchen Sink

Step 1. Prepare The Sink

Determining what type of sink you currently have is the first step toward accurately measuring the sink. The three main sink types include undermount sinks, farmhouse sinks, and drop-in sinks.

• Farmhouse sinks typically have both a deep basin and exposed front. Cabinets do not cover the basin.
• Undermount sinks are installed beneath the countertop. Countertops will cover the sink rim, which means no part of the sink will rest on the countertop.
• Drop-in sinks are also referred to as self-rimming or top-mount sinks.

After you have determined what type of sink you have, it’s time to take your measurements.

• Make sure to empty the kitchen base cabinet so there is a clean area to measure.
• Take the measurements more than once for accuracy purposes.
• Installation can vary depending on sink type and measurement directions.

Step 2. Measure The Kitchen Sink

Use these few tips to properly measure each of the common sink types.

• Start by using a ruler or measuring tape with the edge or lip sitting on the countertop.
• If you have an undermount sink in your kitchen, measure from the edge of the counter opening.
• Measure the length of the sink by placing the edge of your tape measurer on the left edge of the sink.
• Then stretch the measurer across the sink basin to the right edge.
• Document the measured length before moving on.
• Measure the sink width by placing the measurer at the sink’s back edge, then stretching it across the sink basin to the front edge.
• Again, record your measurement.
• Place the straightedge ruler or a level across the top of the sink to measure the basin depth.
• Use the tape measurer to measure the portion of the sink basin to the ruler’s bottom edge.
• Record the depth at this time.

Step 3. Measure Cabinets

Once you have the measurements recorded, it’s time to measure your cabinet space. The cabinet measurement will determine the type of sink you can install.

• Start by measuring the depth of the cabinet. Place the tape measurer along the bottom of the cabinet, measuring from the back to front edge.
• Measure the total width by putting the measurer along the bottom of the cabinet and measuring from the left to the right edge.
• Once you have that total number, subtract approximately 4 inches from the width and 1 from the depth to figure out the sink’s width.
• 24 inches from back to front is the standard sink size.

Step 4. Remove The Old Sink And Measure The Cutout

Your old sink should be removed to accurately take this next set of measurements. Turn off the water valves that lead to the sink. Disconnect the water lines, then remove the faucet. Disconnect the drain attachments and remove the old sink.

• Measure the same way you did during step 1 once the old sink has been removed.
• Measure side to side and front to back. This will determine the total width available for the new sink installation.
• Be mindful of the corner ratio, meaning the corner radius and the lip of the new sink are not smaller.
• All gaps must be covered.