Can You Replace a Double Kitchen Sink with a Single?

Can You Replace a Double Kitchen Sink with a Single?

A common grievance among homeowners and apartment tenants alike is a problematic double kitchen sink. For those enjoy cooking, it can be challenging to fit large pots and pans in the small basins of a conventional double sink. In fact, most houses and apartments come outfitted with a double kitchen sink, which leaves them wanting to swap the sink out for one of those highly desirable deep, spacious farmhouse sinks. So, the question is: Can you replace a double kitchen sink with a single without breaking the bank?

Yes, you can easily convert your double kitchen sink to a single one. Depending on the condition of your current sink – whether it’s an undermount or drop-in – and your countertop material, there are many ways that you can install a large single sink in your kitchen for essentially just the cost of the new sink. Though, of course, the price will be more if you choose to hire a professional instead of doing it yourself.

Regardless, this project does not require you to replace your cabinets or countertops. However, depending on the specific sink style that you choose, minor adjustments may need to be made to the countertops, cabinets, and/or plumbing.

The Trouble with Double

Many homeowners find themselves frustrated with their double sink, as there are two drains to clean, two drains to keep free of debris, a lot of surface area to maintain, and limited space in general. Though, the idea behind a double sink is to have one side of the sink for dishwashing and the other for rinsing. Unfortunately, it isn’t always this simple.

Even for those without a dishwasher, it’s much more convenient to clean dishes as needed instead of fill an entire basin with soapy water. Larger pans, pots, and dishes are a major nuisance in this double sink configuration – especially anything that has to be left to soak. Not to mention, if you already have limited counter space as it is, the problem can be even worse.

Double to Single Kitchen Sink Conversion

Fortunately, converting your frustrating double kitchen sink to a large single sink is not as difficult as it may seem. So long as you’re buying the right dimensions for your countertop’s current cutout and you choose a similar mounting method for the sink, the conversion should be a breeze! For instance, if your current kitchen sink is a drop-in, opting for an undermount sink won’t look appealing or fit your current countertop situation without some adjustments.

In this case, you may have to make changes to the drop-in hole or add extra cut outs to ensure that a farmhouse sink apron fits appropriately. Not to mention, granite and marble countertops present their own unique challenges. To ensure that your expensive countertops are not damaged during the conversion, make sure that your measurements are accurate and consider consulting with a professional.

The most common kitchen sink measurement is 33 inches by 22 inches, but you always want to verify the proper measurement before you order a replacement. For drop-in sinks, you’ll want to measure the sink itself from edge to edge. If you have a undermount sink, you’ll need to measure the hole from edge to edge. This will give you a great starting point, but you should still prepare to make some slight adjustments to make sure that everything fits right!

Custom Sink vs. Countertop Replacement

Depending on the opening in the counter for your current sink, you may have some difficulty finding a single-bowl style sink that matches the size that you need. Mass-market kitchen sink manufacturers produce a number of standard sizes, but not all. However, this is not to say that the sink you need isn’t available. In this case, you can consider having a custom sink made to fit the specific dimensions you require.

Or, the other option is to purchase a new countertop that suits your specifications. Whether having a custom sink made or buying a new countertop is more cost-effective will depend on the size of your countertop and the replacement material that you choose. Though, when it comes to custom kitchen sinks, the options for customization are nearly endless.

A full range of style options are available, including flush mount, drop-in, farmhouse-style, and undermount. You also are given the opportunity to choose the drain position, bowl depth, faucet cutouts, and finish.

Ready to Make the Switch?

If you’re ready to replace your double kitchen sink with a larger, more functional single sink, we’re here to help! Fortunately, we have performed this exact conversion many times before and would be happy to assist you with converting from a double kitchen sink to a single, or even back to a double.

Contact Anytime Plumbing today to speak with one of our highly-trained professionals, receive a free estimate, and get started on your kitchen renovation project!