Here are some important points to keep in mind before and while installing a Fireclay Farmhouse Sink:
- Order your fireclay farmhouse sink well in advance. Many styles of sinks are very popular and can be on back-order for over a month. If you have your heart set on a style and brand, order it well in advance to avoid last-minute stresses and delays to your project. Allow for some wiggle room in your timeline to get a replacement, in the event of shipping damage.
- As soon as your sink is delivered, open the box and all the packaging to inspect it for warps, defects, and damages so corrective action can be taken in a timely manner.
- As already mentioned, the base cabinet size needs to be at least 3 inches larger than the size of the sink. So a 33" fireclay farmhouse sink can be installed in a 36" base cabinet and a 30" fireclay farmhouse sink can be installed in a 33" base cabinet (this rule applies to most farmhouse sinks, however, we recommend you check the product specifications).
4. Given the nature of fireclay sinks the actual dimensions of the sink can vary by about 2% from the specifications. Hence, there are generally no cut-outs or templates provided for these sinks and it is highly recommended that you use the actual sink to make any countertop and cabinet cutouts. Another reason to order your sink well in advance. Remember, your countertops and cabinets cannot be finalized without your fireclay farmhouse sink on hand!
5. Based on the material you select traditional farmhouse sinks are heavy and need a custom cabinet made with a front cutout to accommodate the deep sink and exposed apron front. In addition, a plywood platform is to be built that will serve as a support frame inside of the base cabinet to support the weight of the sink, water filled to the top, with any attachments such as garbage disposals.
6. Most farmhouse sinks have a 10" apron (height of the sink), hence you would need to ensure you have enough space below the sink in the cabinet to accommodate your garbage disposal, plumbing lines, etc.
7. The farmhouse sink needs to be leveled from the top and bottom. If needed, adjustments can be made with shims. Hence, the need to get a professional!
- Farmhouse sinks do not include holes for the faucets to be fitted into; rather, faucets are installed through the cabinetry or on the wall. Make sure you have enough space behind the sink on the countertop for the faucet and other accessories such as a soap dispenser and water filter of your choice.
9. It is recommended to use a stainless steel sink grid at the bottom of a fireclay farmhouse sink. It will protect your sink from getting chips and cracks from accidental drops while using heavy pots and pans.
10. Finally, if you are installing your sink with a waste disposal unit, you most likely won't need to purchase the drains as the unit will come with it. However, if you would like to match the drain with your hardware and faucet you will need to purchase a disposal flange or trim separately. Ensure it is compatible with the waste disposal unit. A basket strainer can be used for sinks installed without garbage disposal.
Looking for a detailed set of instructions for installing a farmhouse sink? Read our Farmhouse Sink Installation Guide.