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Install New Sink Strainer — Install New Drain Assembly

Beginner

Part of project

How to Replace a Two-Handle Bathroom Faucet · Step 8 of 10

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Take a generous amount of plumber's putty and roll it in your hands to form a rope-like shape. Wrap this putty rope around the underside of the new sink strainer's flange. Insert the strainer into the sink drain hole and press down firmly to create a seal. From underneath the sink, install the rubber gasket, the other gasket, and then tighten the large metal nut to secure the strainer in place.

Goal: Secure the new basket strainer in the sink drain

  • Be liberal with the plumber's putty; it's better to have too much than not enough. Excess can be wiped away easily.
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FAQs

How long should a beginner expect to spend replacing a two-handle bathroom faucet and drain?

For a beginner, this project typically takes 2-4 hours, assuming no major complications like seized nuts. The difficulty is rated as 'beginner' because it involves straightforward steps, but patience is key, especially when working in tight under-sink spaces.

Are there any essential tools I might not already have that are crucial for this faucet replacement?

Yes, a basin wrench (like the Husky 1-1/2 in. Quick-Release Telescoping Basin Wrench) is invaluable for reaching and loosening nuts in tight spaces under the sink. You'll also want a quality adjustable wrench, tongue and groove pliers (Channellock 442), and a reliable flashlight (Panther Vision FLATEYE F-310) for visibility.

What are the critical preparation steps and safety precautions before I start disconnecting anything?

Always begin by shutting off both the hot and cold water supply valves under the sink, then turn on the old faucet to relieve pressure and drain residual water. Have a bucket (Unger 6 Gal. Heavy-Duty Plastic Bucket) and a rag (Better Trends Hugo Collection Bath Rug) ready to catch any spills and protect your cabinetry.

What are the most common reasons for leaks after installing a new faucet or drain, and how can I prevent them?

Leaks often occur from loose supply line connections or improper sealing of the drain assembly. Ensure all connections are hand-tightened, then given an additional quarter to half turn with a wrench. For the drain, properly apply plumber's putty (Oatey 14 oz. Plumber's Putty) around the flange before seating it.

Transcript
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So you just lay your pipes out. But before we get into the piping, we've got to put the new sink strainer in. The new one that's going to have to hook up to. So you grab your plumber's putty and we're going to make it into a little row. A little tube. We're going to wrap this plumber's putty around the sink strainer. The new sink strainer. See how I'm just gently putting it around the strainer. Just put it around there. And if you're light on one spot, you can always add little. See, you can always add a little bit more to it. Be liberal with the plumber's putty. It's better to have more too much plumber's putty than not enough. But that's about the right amount right there. You just push it into the corner, you see. Push it into the corner. And after we get this plumber's putty on there, we're going to push it into the sink hole. So this is the fun part. Okay, these are the parts that are going to go underneath the sink. You got your rubber gasket and your other gasket. That's going to go underneath the sink. That's going to hold it in place. And you got the metal nut there. So those go on the bottom. So there you go. You put that strainer in the sink. You push it down. You're going to have some excess putty pop up.

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