How to Move Sink Plumbing Over a Few Inches | DIY Guide

If the placement of your sink needs to be more proper and you want to move it a few inches, the task may seem daunting. Moving sink plumbing over a few inches is a relatively straightforward process that can do with a few essential tools. However, moving your sink’s plumbing is straightforward with the right tools and knowledge. This blog post will provide a comprehensive guide on how to move sink plumbing over a few inches.

We will cover the necessary tools and techniques and offer step-by-step instructions on moving your sink’s plumbing over a few inches.

With the help of this blog post, you will safely and confidently complete this job with minimal effort and time.

How to Move Sink Plumbing Over a Few Inches

Follow the below steps;

• Mark the new drain location
• Cut the p-trap and drain pipe
• Disconnect the sink drain
• Measure for the new tailpiece and supply tube
• Install a temporary drain cylinder
• Connect the new tailpiece and supply tube
• Reinstall the sink flange and mounting strap
• Reconnect the existing P-trap to the temporary drain cylinder.
• Test for leaks and make any final adjustments or repairs.

Step 1: Mark the new drain location.

Before you start doing any work, it’s essential to mark the new drain location on the wall. 

It makes measuring the pipes easier and ensures that the new drain is positioned appropriately and aligned.

Use a level to make sure it’s in the right spot. Once you have the drain marked, you can begin to work on the plumbing.

Step 2: Cut the p-trap and drain pipe.

The next step in moving your sink plumbing over a few inches is to cut the P-trap and drain pipe.

The P-trap is the curved part of the drain pipe that prevents sewer gas from coming back up the drain.

You need to disconnect the P-trap from the drain pipe and cut it with a hacksaw. Do this carefully, as a perfect cut is critical for proper installation.

After cutting, you will need to remove the drain pipe and measure and cut it to the desired length. Make sure you sand down the cut edges to avoid any sharp edges.

Step 3: Disconnect the sink drain.

The third step in moving sink plumbing over a few inches is disconnecting the drain. Start by unscrewing the trap from the drain.

Then, unscrew the sink drain from the wall. You may need to use a pair of pliers to loosen the nut securing the gutter to the wall. 

Once the nut does remove, carefully pull the sink drain away from the wall. Save the nut and any other parts you may have removed.

Step 4: Measure for the new tailpiece and supply tube.

Once you have disconnected the old tailpiece and supply tube, you will need to measure for their replacements.

To measure the tailpiece, start by measuring the distance between the drain opening and the wall’s edge. Then, subtract 1/2 inch from the measurement to ensure the tailpiece will fit securely.

To measure the supply tube, measure the distance from the valve to the wall’s edge and subtract 1/2 inch.

Make sure to write down the measurements and take them with you when you purchase the new tailpiece and supply tube.

Step 5: Install a temporary drain cylinder.

Once you’ve cut the new P-trap in place, it’s time to install a temporary drain cylinder.

It does a simple yet essential step that helps the final connection between the sink’s drain and the trap fit snugly. 

The cylinder should fit snugly against the bottom of the sink and the top of the P-trap. Use a tube of liquid adhesive to create a watertight seal between the cylinder and the trap.

Once it’s in place, give the cylinder a few good turns to ensure it’s secure.

Step 6: Connect the new tailpiece and supply tube.

Take the new tailpiece and thread it onto the drain pipe. Make sure it does fast tightly.

Then, attach the supply tube to the existing shut-off valve and secure it with a wrench. Connect the other end of the supply tube to the tailpiece and use a twist to secure it. Once everything is connected, turn the shut-off valve to make sure the water is flowing correctly.

Step 7: Reinstall the sink flange and mounting strap.

The seventh step in the process of moving your sink plumbing over a few inches is to reinstall the sink flange and mounting strap:

• Place the flange over the sink drain, ensuring it is centered.
• Use the mounting strap to secure the flange using the screws provided. Make sure to tighten the screws securely.
• Use the putty knife to spread a thin layer of plumber’s putty around the sink flange.
• Finish the installation by pushing the sink drain into the drain opening.

Step 8: Reconnect the existing P-trap to the temporary drain cylinder.

Step 8 is the final step in moving sink plumbing over a few inches. To complete this step, you’ll need to reconnect the existing P-trap to the temporary drain cylinder.

Start by loosening the nuts on the P-trap, then carefully remove the P-trap from the sink drain.

Once removed, use a screwdriver to loosen the compression nut on the temporary drain cylinder. Then, slide the P-trap over the cylinder, and reconnect it using the nuts.

Tighten the nuts securely and make sure the P-trap is firmly attached.

Step 9: Test for leaks and make any final adjustments or repairs.

Testing for leaks should be the final step in any plumbing installation process. 

The most common method is to pressurize the system and observe for any visible leaks. 

It should identify the source and make necessary repairs or adjustments if any do find. It is essential to use appropriate materials when making repairs to ensure a long-lasting solution.

Additionally, it is essential to check for any water pressure issues and make any necessary adjustments to the pipes or fixtures to prevent future problems.

Finally, ensure that the system adequately drains before leaving the job site.

Taking the time to complete this step will help ensure the system is functioning correctly and minimize any costly repairs in the future.

Expert Opinion

Although it may seem daunting to do it yourself, you can save time and money by following the steps outlined above and doing it yourself.

With patience, you can have your sink plumbing moved over in a few hours. Moving a sink plumbing a few inches over requires some minor plumbing work.

It is important to remember to turn the water off, disconnect the pipes, and check for any clogs or blockages before attempting to move the plumbing.

The biggest challenge is ensuring the sink plumbing is appropriately secured to the wall and the pipes connect with the correct parts. 

With patience and the right tools, it is possible to successfully move sink plumbing over a few inches.

References

• Editors Team. (2019, January 2). move sink plumbing over 2 inches for new vanity and countertop. Retrieved January 2, 2023
• Nelson. (2022, July 7). Moving Kitchen Plumbing: What You Should Know | Hunker. Retrieved January 2, 2023.
• YouTube Channel. (2021, March 30). How To Put Together Bathroom Drain Pipe Components So You Can Move Sink Over A Few Inches or Feet. Retrieved January 2, 2023, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TPIW-FtCWmg 
• Editors Team. (2019, June 29). How to Move a Toilet Over a Few Inches. Retrieved January 2, 2023.