How to Install a Farmhouse Sink


33" Reinhard Double-Bowl Fireclay Farmhouse Sink in White for farmhouse sink installation 33" Reinhard Double-Bowl Fireclay Farmhouse Sink in White for farmhouse sink installation

Now that you’ve picked out a stunning farmhouse sink, follow these steps for a seamless installation. Due to its exposed apron front, these require a slightly different installation from traditional sinks—but the final look makes it all worth the extra effort. Keep scrolling for answers to your most frequently asked questions about farmhouse sinks.

Before you get started, look over all instructions and be sure to observe all local plumbing and building codes. To avoid personal injury, use assistance when lifting the sink. We recommend consulting a professional if you are unfamiliar with installing kitchen fixtures and plumbing.

Note: Due to the manufacturing process, each sink will vary slightly dimensionally. Make any adjustments to the following instructions as necessary

Tools and Materials


  • Safety Glasses

  • Framing Square

  • Tape Measure

  • Wood Shims

  • Hacksaw

  • Drill

  • Support Frames

  • Pencil

  • Level

  • General Purpose Silicone Sealant (for stone, marble and granite)

  • Neutral Cure Silicone Sealant (for copper)

Materials to install a farmhouse sink - safety glasses, framing square, tape measure, wood shims, hacksaw, drill, support frames

Installation Options

When installing a sink, you have a few mounting options, though for sinks of this type, we recommend an undermount sink installation. Flush-mount and built-up installation are not ideal for farmhouse sink installation.

Before you begin, make sure there is adequate room for your faucet and backsplash installations.

Farmhouse sink installation options - undermount installation is recommended. Flush-mount and built-up installation not ideal. Farmhouse sink installation options - undermount installation is recommended. Flush-mount and built-up installation not ideal.

Installing a Farmhouse Sink

Step 1 - install support bars along the inner sides of the cabinet to support the weight of the sink

Step 1: Prepare the Cabinet

Farmhouse sinks may require custom cabinetry. For assistance, we recommend consulting an experienced cabinet maker. Providing the cabinet maker with the actual sink that will be installed will certify a custom fit.

Ensure that your cabinet allows clearance for the water supply lines, drains, and garbage disposal underneath the sink.

Build a support frame or install support bars from front to back, along the inner sides of the cabinet. The frame must support the weight of the sink and all attachments.

The support frame should be positioned so that when installed, the sink is in line and level with the top of the cabinet.

Step 2 - center the sink on the counter, trace an outline with a pencil, and cut the countertop accordingly

Step 2: Template & Cutout

Because each sink will vary dimensionally, no template is provided. Center the sink on the countertop and trace the outline with a pencil to use as a guide for the cutout. Remember to allow clearance for any faucets and/or backsplashes. Cut the countertop accordingly.

Step 3 - test the fit of the sink in the counter opening. Verify it is level and use wood shims if needed to level the sink

Step 3: Test the Fit

Test fit the sink in the opening that was created in the previous steps. The entire weight of the sink should be supported by the support frame. Verify that the sink is in line and level with the top of the cabinet. Use wood shims, if needed, to level the sink.

Step 4 - set the sink in place and fill in any gaps with sealant. Place countertop on top, remove excess sealant and let dry

Step 4: Final Placement

Set the sink in place and fill in any gaps below the sink front, and between the sink and countertop, with silicone sealant. Hold the sink in place to secure. Place the countertop onto the sink and remove any excess sealant from all surfaces.

Allow the silicone to dry for at least 24 hours before installing your drain, faucet, and other accessories.

Step 1 - install support bars along the inner sides of the cabinet to support the weight of the sink

Step 1: Prepare the Cabinet

Farmhouse sinks may require custom cabinetry. For assistance, we recommend consulting an experienced cabinet maker. Providing the cabinet maker with the actual sink that will be installed will certify a custom fit.

Ensure that your cabinet allows clearance for the water supply lines, drains, and garbage disposal underneath the sink.

Build a support frame or install support bars from front to back, along the inner sides of the cabinet. The frame must support the weight of the sink and all attachments.

The support frame should be positioned so that when installed, the sink is in line and level with the top of the cabinet.

Step 2 - center the sink on the counter, trace an outline with a pencil, and cut the countertop accordingly

Step 2: Template & Cutout

Because each sink will vary dimensionally, no template is provided. Center the sink on the countertop and trace the outline with a pencil to use as a guide for the cutout. Remember to allow clearance for any faucets and/or backsplashes. Cut the countertop accordingly.

Step 3 - test the fit of the sink in the counter opening. Verify it is level and use wood shims if needed to level the sink

Step 3: Test the Fit

Test fit the sink in the opening that was created in the previous steps. The entire weight of the sink should be supported by the support frame. Verify that the sink is in line and level with the top of the cabinet. Use wood shims, if needed, to level the sink.

Step 4 - set the sink in place and fill in any gaps with sealant. Place countertop on top, remove excess sealant and let dry

Step 4: Final Placement

Set the sink in place and fill in any gaps below the sink front, and between the sink and countertop, with silicone sealant. Hold the sink in place to secure. Place the countertop onto the sink and remove any excess sealant from all surfaces.

Allow the silicone to dry for at least 24 hours before installing your drain, faucet, and other accessories.


Common Questions About Farmhouse Sink Installations

How far out should a farmhouse sink overhang?

A farmhouse sink can overhang as little as you’d like, with a 1/2" overhang offering a sleeker, modern look while 2" of overhang ensure that authentic farmhouse charm. Anything more than 2" will likely stick out too far and get in your way.

Should the countertop be flush with the farmhouse sink?

The countertop will not be flush with your farmhouse sink with the recommended undermount installation, as it will sit underneath your countertop. If you opt for a flush-mount installation, only then would your farmhouse sink be flush with the countertop.

Do farmhouse sinks have to be undermount?

An undermount installation for farmhouse sinks is highly recommended, but not always required. Always check your specific sink’s manufacturer’s guide to see if flush-mount or built-up installations are possible with your farmhouse sink.

33" Brumfield Fireclay Farmhouse Sink in White for farmhouse sink installation

Can you put a farmhouse sink in a regular base?

It’s likely not possible for a farmhouse sink to be put in a regular base, as they often need to be reworked with an additional support structure to withstand the weight of a sink of this type.

What size sink do I need for a farmhouse sink?

This completely depends on your preference and intended uses for the sink, with sizes ranging anywhere from 20" to over 50" in length (from side to side) in both single- and double-bowl designs.

Do you caulk around the front of a farmhouse sink?

Caulking around the front of a farmhouse sink is not necessary, as any leaks when running water reveal that you need to tighten the sink’s connections. If desired, you may apply a bead of silicone caulk along the rim of your farmhouse sink for a more finished look.

36" Gallo Fireclay Farmhouse Sink in White for farmhouse sink installation

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