How to Install a Lavatory Sink Drain
- 1). Clean out the sink with a strong cleanser. Pay special attention to the drain opening. This will help ensure a watertight seal.
- 2). Insert a tube of silicone caulk into the caulk gun. Trim off the nozzle at the 1/4-inch mark. Turn the sink flange upside-down and apply a bead of silicone caulk around the diameter with the caulk gun. Turn the flange over so that it is right side up and press firmly into the drain opening.
- 3). Screw in the tailpiece into the drain from below. If this is a large sink, have an assistant hold the drain in place.
- 4). Slip the drain gasket and jamb nut that came with the drain assembly over the end of the tailpiece. Slide them up the tailpiece until they are flush with the bottom of the sink. Tighten the jamb nut with the pliers.
- 5). Wrap the threads of the tailpiece and the sewer pipe inlet with plumber's tape. Slip the P-trap into place between the tailpiece and the sewer pipe. You may need to loosen the jamb nut to maneuver the P-trap in place. Tighten the couplings with the pliers. Retighten the jamb nut if you had to loosen it. Allow the silicone caulk to dry.
- 6). Cut away any excess silicone caulk with a sharp utility knife.
- 7). Run the faucet and check for leaks. Tighten any couplings if necessary.