How to Replace Bathroom Vanity Tops

Change the entire look of your bathroom by installing a new vanity top. Bathroom counters come in a range of colors, textures and styles to update any bathroom’s décor. Replacing a vanity top requires common household tools and a bit of do-it-yourself knowledge. A few simple steps will update the look of your bathroom and help you achieve professional results.

Items Needed

• Bucket


• Utility knife


• Putty knife


• Screwdriver


• Pry bar 


• Level


• Shims


• Silicone


• Screws


• Caulk


• Caulk gun

Instructions

1. Turn off the hot and cold water supply to the sink by turning the water supply line valves off. Disconnect the plumbing lines to the faucet, located underneath the sink. You may need a pipe wrench to loosen tight connections.


2. Cut the caulk around the faucet with the utility knife and remove any screws attaching the faucet to the counter. Remove the faucet from the old vanity top. Cut through the caulk lining the sides, underneath and along the wall of the vanity top. This should loosen the countertop.


3. Place a bucket under the drain pipe located below the sink. Unscrew the drain pipe and empty the water that remains in the pipe into the bucket. Keep the bucket in place to prevent water from damaging the cabinet floor.


4. Unscrew the wall mount brackets and screws that hold the vanity top to the wall. Once all the screws are out, lift the top up and off the cabinet base and remove it from the room. This may require help if the vanity top is large or heavy.


5. Scrape residual caulk from the wall and vanity top with a putty knife. Inspect the top of the vanity for damage and repair with wood filler to ensure a strong foundation. Repair or replace areas with old water damage.


6. Set the new vanity top onto the base cabinet and center it. Place a level on the countertop and check for levelness front-to-back and side-to-side. Use shims placed, between the countertop and cabinet, to correct unevenness.


7. Use screws to attach a wood or Formica countertop to the wall and cabinet base. Attach marble, stone or solid surface vanity tops with a silicone adhesive. Run a bead of caulk along the edges of the new countertop for a finished look. Allow the caulk to dry before proceeding.


8. Drop the faucet into the corresponding holes in the vanity top and reconnect the water supply lines and drain. Keep the bucket under the lines while you check for secure connections. Wipe off the counter with a mild cleaner or manufacturer’s suggested cleaner.