A Complete Guide to Measuring Kitchen Sinks

Installing a new kitchen sink or replacing an old one can seem like a straightforward task, but careful measurement is crucial for ensuring a proper fit, optimal functionality, and aesthetic appeal. With a wide variety of sink types, sizes, configurations, and installation methods, knowing how to accurately measure for a new kitchen sink requires some key considerations.

Understanding Kitchen Sink Measurements

Let's start with some fundamentals on sink measurements:

• The three key dimensions are length, width, and depth. Length and width define the sink's overall footprint, while depth indicates interior bowl capacity.
• For rectangular sinks, length is front to back and width is left to right.
• Round and oval sinks require diameter measurements.
• Double basin sinks need individual measurements for each bowl.
• Farmhouse and apron-front sinks also factor in the exposed front surface area.

Knowing these basic measurement conventions will provide a foundation for the measuring process. Precise measurements are essential for a properly fitted, functional sink that maximizes the available space.

Importance of Accurate Measurements

Taking accurate kitchen sink measurements is crucial for several reasons:

• Aesthetic Appeal - A sink sized to fit the existing counter and cabinetry will look built-in and seamless.
• Functionality - The optimal sink dimensions allow for easy food prep and washing.
• Space Planning - Good measurements maximize sink capacity within the existing footprint.
• Fixture Positioning - The sink measurements impact the faucet and accessory placements.

Even small measurement discrepancies can leave a sink feeling cramped or awkward. With accurate measurements, you can select the perfect sink and position fixtures for optimal utility.

Common Measurement Mistakes

Some common kitchen sink measurement mistakes include:

• Only measuring length and width, forgetting depth.
• Not measuring individual bowls separately on a double basin.
• Measuring from the countertop instead of sink lip for top-mount sinks.
• Not accounting for extra length in apron-front sinks.
• Forgetting to measure faucet hole placement.

Being aware of these potential missteps can help you avoid them during your own sink measurements.

Measuring Existing Kitchen Sinks

If replacing an existing sink, measuring the old sink is a great starting point for choosing the new one.

Gather these supplies:

• Flexible tape measure
• Pencil and paper for notes
• Camera for visual reference (optional)

Having a flexible cloth or metal tape measure is crucial for maneuvering around the sink basins and any hard-to-reach spots. Pencil and paper allow you to document the dimensions accurately. A camera can also help capture visual details.

Measure Length, Width, and Depth

For both single and double basin sinks:

1. Measure front to back length, placing tape measure across the top rim.
2. Measure left to right width, again across the top rim.
3. For double basins, measure each bowl separately.
4. Measure depth by extending tape measure from the top down to bottom of bowl.
5. For farmhouse apron-fronts, measure from backsplash to front of apron.

Always take measurements from the outermost edges or rims. Measuring only the interior basin can result in a sink that is too small. For accurate width, you may need to measure the rear and front rims individually if they differ.

Unusual Sink Shapes

For corner sinks, L-shaped sinks, and other asymmetrical styles:

• Take individual measurements of each side.
• Note down dimensions of any rounded corners or curved edges.
• Measure straight depths even on angled surfaces.

With unusual sink shapes, taking multiple measurements from all sides and angles will give you the full picture. Even if a sink wall is on a diagonal, measure the depth vertically from rim to bottom for the true interior basin depth.

Dimension sketches or photos can help document irregular sink shapes. Labeling the measurements right on the photos makes it easy to reference later.

Other Considerations

A few other tips for measuring existing kitchen sinks:

• Detach any sink accessories like drying racks before measuring.
• Remove sink strainers and measure from rim to bottom of tailpiece.
• Note down sink material (stainless, enamel, composite).
• Document any unique attributes like ledges or grooves.

Taking notes on special sink features will help match replacements. And removing add-ons provides the most accurate measurements of the sink itself.

Planning New Kitchen Sink Measurements

When planning a newly installed kitchen sink, take into account:

Cabinet Size

Consider the existing cabinet size under the sink:

• Measure cabinet opening length and width.
• Account for any interior shelves or obstacles.
• Leave room for plumbing and garbage disposal access.

In addition to the cabinet opening, check for anything like pipes or supports running through the interior cabinet space. Allow clearance for plumbing hookups at the rear. Aim for at least 15 inches of open cabinet depth.

Standard Sink Dimensions

Typical sink sizes include:

• Single bowl: 20-30 inches wide x 15-20 inches front-to-back.
• Double bowl: 30-40 inches wide x 20-25 inches front-to-back.
• Depths range from 5-10 inches on average.

Many manufacturers offer standard size sinks in 3-inch increments. But with custom-made sinks, any size is possible within reason. Browse options to help visualize what dimensions may work best.

Choosing the Right Size

Considerations for sink size selection:

• Existing cabinet and counter measurements
• Available plumbing access points
• Depth needed for washing large pots or baking sheets
• Number of bowls desired
• Leaving room for a future garbage disposal
• Ease of access to sink contents

Balancing these factors will help narrow down the ideal sink size. If opting for a double basin, measure the existing space to ensure adequate room for both bowls. Deeper sinks around 10 inches provide ample washing capacity but may limit access to the bottom. Find the optimal balance of depth versus easy reach.

Measuring for Common Sink Installations

Measurement specifics will vary based on the installation type:

• Measure countertop cutout, not the sink itself.
• Account for any overhang into the cabinet below.
• Allow clearances for mounting clips or brackets.

Since undermount sinks drop into the countertop hole, the cutout dimensions are key. Factor in the overhang distance so the sink rim alignment looks even with the front countertop edge. Also include room for mounting hardware like clips or brackets on the sink perimeter.