Pedestal Sink Installation: What the plumbers didn't tell you

Consider this a supplemental video to all the professional plumber videos that are available in which they don't really tell you everything to think about before beginning the install. Hopefully this will save you a few trips to the hardware store!

[xyzconsult]

Geez, I wish the big box plumbing company we used to install a Pfister compression drain assembly had watched this video and ALL THE COMMENTS about NOT USING putty or tape, becuase they did, even though I GAVE THEM the Pfister instructions. They created a huge leak and - after spending hundreds (they had no idea about pedestals it turns out) - I have to do it myself. Get the one they ruined out, purchase a new one, remove the pedestal and sink, install it properly, reattach to the wall cuz they didn't do that right, they PUTTIED THE SINK TO THE PEDESTAL! My pedestal is a Kohler Memoirs, I am fed up with plumbers rn.

[airserco]

The horizontal piece of the p-trap also needs a slip nut going into the wall (adapter). It doesn't "just go in".

[indylovelace]

Several have commented on the old sink. It indeed has been sold to a good home who will keep it in service!

[stanleyblanchard]

Helpful video, but what sticks in my mind the most is, you really love the word "actually"

[janetstone]

Thanks for sharing - yes, lots to think about on hose lengths, I honestly will get 3 sizes, as I have learned my guesstimations are 'wrong', then I simply return the wrong sizes.

[shabba]

It's a good idea to take your old (original) full trap assembly to the store with you so the person you're talking to can see what you're replacing. It'll help some of their instructions/advice make more sense to you, too.

Look closely at the instructions of your faucet set. I installed a Pfister set last night and they expressly told me NOT to use any pipe tape on threads or plumber's putty under the drain assembly (because it might damage the rubber seal they use). Many of these modern units use all compression fittings, and I think plumbers will tell you not to use tape on the threads. So when you're installing a new setup on an older house, be aware of the connections on both sides to make sure you do the right thing. Some newer faucets are surprisingly easy to install. Almost no tools needed at all.

If there wasn't a pedestal-type sink there before, make SURE there is some kind of backing board behind the drywall for your screws to anchor to. If not, consider adding one. You don't want that pedestal sink pulling away from the wall when your kids grab it.

Get a tube of pure silicon caulking and run a bead along the sink/wall union to keep water from sitting in there and rotting the wood/drywall. Use a wet finger to make a nice, smooth curved bead line.

Great video, thanks! Do it yourself, folks! :)

[Splattervision-qhsd]

Whenever I do a plumbing project, when leaving the hardware store I say “see ya in a little while”

[BobBlues]

Good advice. Instead of making multiple trips to the hardware store, I made multiple purchases on Amazon. I also needed a tailpipe extension.

[karinrandall]

This was very helpful as a supplement to other instructions as you said. I am facing replacing a P trap on my pedestal sink that is leaky and the spare bathroom appears not too far behind. Thank you so much for sharing!

[ATOES]

I sure like the design of your old sink, so pretty!

[godfirst]

Thank you for this video!
I haven't had to deal with the pedstal yet, but the p trap.
I brought $25 worth of parts from one store trying to replace it, those didn't fit.
So I went to another store and it had a P trap set for $1.97.
What a fool I am...but thank you for the video!
I can now avoid more issues with installation.

[danneilson]

They are not 'friction fit', they are compression fit. Your horizontal drain into the wall cavity should be fixed, and not move at all. Never use Teflon tape on plastic fittings.

[NMranchhand]

That was an outstanding video and very thoughtful of you to post. Thanks.

[chaserandolph]

Thank you for a super helpful video! About to go try this out for the first time. I see a lot of hardware store trips in my future

[Papil]

Good video.
Only thing i'd recommend is pipe dope over tape. Ive read tons of reviews and the dope has seen like the better choice. Ive never had an issue anytime ive used it.

I'd recommend rectorseal T plus 2(little thick and hard to use honestly, but WORKS) or Hercules Megaloc thread sealant

[RubenHernandez-yxbk]

That's why you have to go through plumbing bro!!

[johnozier]

Great video. It helped me with my Pedestal sink installation.

[terryq]

Not a pro plumber here, but done plenty of plumbing over the years. That back end of the p-trap, where it
enters the wall is a leak waiting to happen. That should be a slip-joint fitting and should have a washer and a large nut to tighten it all together. Just sayin'

[MikeRingsdorf]

Thank you for your video. It was extremely helpful and much appreciated !

[jose]

great video! i just bought a brand new pedestal sink at an estate sale last week this answers all my questions thanks for posting this.