How To Install A Sink Strainer

A clog in the sink drain is, of course, not a pleasant thing to handle. 

Having faced this issue quite a few times, I understand how taxing it can be to eliminate the clog. In fact, there was a time when I bought half a dozen clog removers together to put an end to this problem! 

But all this was before my brother Joseph suggested I install a sink strainer that would sift or strain the particles which cause clogs. It was one of those strenuous days when I was faced with a stubborn clog in the drain, and he had come to stay at our place for some time. 

So, I later gave it a thought, did some research, and went ahead with the installation. And that was one of the best decisions I ever made! 

However, installing a strainer can seem tricky beforehand, so I understand the doubts that you might be having about the job. That’s why I’ve come up with this guide on how to install a sink strainer to simplify the process for you. 

Without further ado, let’s dive in, shall we?

Measuring The Sink Drain

At the start, let me tell you that it’s a must to measure the sink drain to ensure that you get a strainer that fits it properly. Going by Joseph’s advice, I took the measurement days before the installation and could easily get hold of the right strainer for the job. 

Note that the correct measurement will be the distance from one edge of the drain to another when taken across its center. As for the strainer, since it’s bowl-shaped and will sit on the drain mount, its dimension will be the same. 

But before knowing various steps in the procedure, it’s essential to be aware of the tools you’ll need for the purpose.

Tools Needed

• Strainer
• Locknut wrench or pipe wrench
• Plumber’s putty
• Basket wrench or needle pliers

Step 1: Disconnecting The Pipe Below The Sink

First, you will need a screwdriver to screw out the bolt joining the pipe to the T-junction below the sink. Detach them and keep them separated. Here’s a side note, don’t remove the U-bend from the junction as the sewer might flow back to the floor. 

Step 2: Removing The Nut Under The Basket Strainer

The next step will be to remove the nut at the lowest position from the bottom. I’d suggest not putting too much pressure on the nut using the wrench as that might damage it. After you’ve taken out the nut, the gasket at the top and the tailpiece will be free. So, you’ll need to detach them as well. 

Step 3: Removing the Larger Nut

Following this, remove the large-sized nut in the same way as the smaller version, and you’re done with the initial part. You can then access the basket strainer easily. 

Step 4: Taking Off The Existing Basket Strainer

Before beginning with this step, I noticed that many smaller units were loosened and on the verge of falling off from the old strainer. So, you should ensure that the strainer you’re purchasing has all the small parts included. Thankfully, the one I got came with all those parts intact, and I could proceed with the job smoothly. 

As for the old strainer, you can discard it entirely, including all the parts and the basket. And be careful while you lift off the basket from the sink top. 

Step 5: Cleaning The Sinkhole Thoroughly

Before fixing the strainer, take a brush, scrub both the bottom and top of the sink, and make sure no dirt is left on the area where you’ll fix it. You should then dry the spot as any moisture and dirt present there would prevent the putty from creating a strong bond. I used a sponge for the purpose, and it did the job quite well. 

In case you’re replacing an old strainer, you will have to scrub the old putty thoroughly. I’d suggest using a knife for this, as a thinner may loosen the putty. 

Step 6: Fixing The Holes, If Any

If there are one or more holes in your sink, those should be repaired without fail. I say this because I had once neglected such holes in a sink in another part of the house, and it used to leak most of the time. 

After you’re done with the repairs, run a few tests to make sure the holes are fully repaired. Note that if there are several holes, you may have to replace the whole sink. 

Step 7: The Installation

The strainer you’ve purchased will come with lots of components, so you’ll have to dismantle it first to install it in the sink drain. 

Now, place it on the sink drain and apply the putty to hold it in place. Applying too much pressure will distort the putty, so be careful in this regard. After this, screw the strainer tightly to the sink and scrape off the excess putty from the edges. 

Once that is done, reattach the sewer pipe to complete the job while closing the connections properly to avoid water dripping during use. Finally, complete the other essential plumbing work. 

Summing It Up