How to Install a Pedestal Sink in 6 Steps


Whether you’ve chosen to install a pedestal sink for its elegant look or to save space in your bathroom, these make a smart option for spaces of all styles and sizes. Once you’re ready for your pedestal sink installation, follow along as we go step-by-step to ensure a seamless process.

Before you begin, be sure to read all instructions and observe local building and safety codes. If you’re not familiar with installing bathroom fixtures, we recommend consulting a professional.

Note: For these instructions, it is assumed that any old fixtures have been removed and that the water supply lines and drain pipe are in place and ready for installation.

Pennfield Porcelain Pedestal Sink for pedestal sink installation

Tools & Materials


  • Level

  • Mounting Hardware*

  • Crescent Wrench

  • Basin Wrench

  • Socket Wrench

  • Drill

  • Screwdriver

  • Pencil

*Because wall construction and materials vary from home to home, mounting hardware is not provided with our pedestal sinks. The appropriate mounting hardware can be purchased from your local hardware store.

Tools to install a pedestal sink - level, mounting hardware, crescent wrench, crescent wrench, basin wrench, socket wrench

Pedestal Sink Installation

Important: If your sink is going to be mounted to a hollow wall, such as drywall or plaster, the sink and/or bracket should be mounted to a solid wood blocking behind the wall via lag bolts or dowel bolts. If wall studs are unavailable, such blocking must be installed.

Step 1 - place the sink in position and mark the wall through the mounting holes at the back of the basin

Step 1

If the pedestal sink is in two pieces, assemble the basin on top of the pedestal to confirm proper height and alignment. Place the sink in position and mark the wall through each of the mounting holes at the back of the basin.

Tip: Verify that the sink and mounting location are level before marking the locations of the mounting holes. If the sink is not level, place a shim under the pedestal or basin and adjust as necessary.

Step 2 - set pedestal aside and drill mounting holes in the marked locations

Step 2

Set pedestal aside and drill mounting holes in the locations designated in Step 1.

Step 3 - attach your new faucet and drain assembly to the sink before installing the pedestal

Step 3

Attach your new faucet and drain assembly according to the installation instructions before installing pedestal.

Step 4 - attach the pedestal to the wall with the mounting hardware

Step 4

Attach the pedestal to the wall with the mounting hardware. Be sure not to over-tighten bolts as this could cause cracks and damage the sink.

Step 5 - attach the water supply and drain lines

Step 5

Attach the water supply and drain lines.

Step 6 - turn on the water supply to check for any leaking from the water supply lines or pedestal sink basin

Step 6

When installation is complete, turn on the water supply to check for any leaking from the water supply lines or pedestal sink basin.

Step 1 - place the sink in position and mark the wall through the mounting holes at the back of the basin

Step 1

If the pedestal sink is in two pieces, assemble the basin on top of the pedestal to confirm proper height and alignment. Place the sink in position and mark the wall through each of the mounting holes at the back of the basin.

Tip: Verify that the sink and mounting location are level before marking the locations of the mounting holes. If the sink is not level, place a shim under the pedestal or basin and adjust as necessary.

Step 2 - set pedestal aside and drill mounting holes in the marked locations

Step 2

Set pedestal aside and drill mounting holes in the locations designated in Step 1.

Step 3 - attach your new faucet and drain assembly to the sink before installing the pedestal

Step 3

Attach your new faucet and drain assembly according to the installation instructions before installing pedestal.

Step 4 - attach the pedestal to the wall with the mounting hardware

Step 4

Attach the pedestal to the wall with the mounting hardware. Be sure not to over-tighten bolts as this could cause cracks and damage the sink.

Step 5 - attach the water supply and drain lines

Step 5

Attach the water supply and drain lines.

Step 6 - turn on the water supply to check for any leaking from the water supply lines or pedestal sink basin

Step 6

When installation is complete, turn on the water supply to check for any leaking from the water supply lines or pedestal sink basin.

Questions You May Have While Installing Your Pedestal Sink

Does a pedestal sink need a P trap?

All sinks are required to have P traps per plumbing codes. By staying filled with water, P traps keep sewer gases from entering your home and prevent blockages in your sink’s plumbing.

How much space do you need around a pedestal sink?

The amount of space needed around a pedestal sink is determined by local codes as well as personal needs to ensure optimal safety and usability of your sink. To keep water from affecting any surrounding drywall, leave at least 4" of space between the sink basin and side walls.

How far should the pedestal sink be from the wall?

The bowl of the pedestal sink should be secured to the wall, so there should be no space between the two.

Should I caulk around the pedestal sink?

To create a watertight seal, you can caulk around the perimeter of a pedestal sink. Caulking should not be used as an alternative to mounting your sink to the wall, however—only in addition to.

Is plumbing different for pedestal sinks?

Depending on your previous sink, you may be able to use the existing plumbing for a pedestal sink. Some plumbing may be visible with a pedestal sink, so you may want to upgrade any older looking plumbing or reposition it altogether to hide anything exposed within the pedestal.

What is the rough-in plumbing height for a pedestal sink?

For residential bathroom sinks, the standard rough-in height from the floor to the rim of the sink is 31". Be sure to review the installation manual for your specific sink for this measurement.

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