Measure Kitchen Sink Without Any Surprises
Installing a new kitchen sink can be a tricky endeavor. To ensure a smooth installation with no surprises, accurately measuring your existing sink and counter space is crucial.
With some simple preparation and the right tools on hand, you can measure your kitchen sink in a few quick steps. Taking precise measurements beforehand guarantees your new sink will fit perfectly with no alignment issues or gaps.

Prepare Your Kitchen Sink Area
Before taking any measurements, completely clear off all items from inside the sink and surrounding countertop. Removing debris improves measurement accuracy. Also take out any bottom cabinets drawers or shelving underneath the sink to open up the area.
Gather the Right Measuring Tools
Have these essential measurement tools on hand:
- Tape measure with standard and metric units
- Ruler or straight edge
- Level tool
Quality tools with legible unit markings are vital for precise sink measurements.
Determine Your Sink Type
Common kitchen sink types include:
- Drop-in: Sits above the countertop with a visible rim around the basin.
- Undermount: Mounted below the counter with no rim.
- Farmhouse/Apron-Front: Exposed front with finished cabinet sides.
Determining your kitchen sink style is important since size and dimensions can vary.
Account for Overhang Space
Depending on the installation type, allow for overhang space outside the sink basin when taking width and length measurements.
Measure Length
Use your tape measure to determine the left-to-right span of the sink basin opening. For accurate results:
- Measure across the top edges including any overhang space.
- Note if the length is tapered or inconsistent due to an uneven cutout.
Allow for Additional Faucets or Fixtures
If your sink will share counter space with other elements like a secondary prep faucet or side towel racks, factor these into the length measurement.
Measure Width
Measuring front-to-back:
- Span tape measure across sink bottom including overhang areas.
- Account for potential faucet or accessory holes/clearance.
Check Dimensions Across Multiple Points
Some older sinks were not always perfectly rectangular. Confirm your width is consistent front, middle and back.
Measure Depth
Determining sink basin depth and total depth are both important. Use a ruler and level:
- Basin Depth - From sink bottom up to the counter.
- Total Depth - Countertop surface down to cabinet bottom.
Include Drain Details
Note drain placement on your sketch to match in your new sink.
Measure Cabinet Space
Confirm measurements of the interior cabinet dimensions:
- Interior Width & Depth
- Cutout Size
Use a level and tape measure to capture accurate cabinet space details.
Allow For Overhang Space
Remember to factor in countertop overhang sitting outside the cabinet perimeter.
Measure Countertop Details
Key countertop measurements include:
- Thickness
- Overhang space
These impact cabinet clearance and sink type that can be installed.
Check Areas With Sink, Faucet & Accessory Holes
Inspect countertop hole placements and sizes to match cutouts in your new sink choice.
Measure Slope & Drain Position
Use a level tool to determine:
- Slope Angle - Sink pitch toward drain
- Drain Placement - Distance from cabinet front
Any slope or off-center drains must be accounted for in new sink choice.
Consider How Slope Affects Depth
With a pitched sink bottom, depth may vary slightly from front to back.
Document Measurements
Be sure to:
- Write Down All Numbers
- Make a Sketch of Sink & Counters
Details like off-center drains are important to note as well.
Take Photos From All Angles
Pictures of the existing sink from multiple angles can also help compare to new sink choices.
Double Check Figures
- Confirm accuracy of all measurements
- Measure twice for complete assurance
Checking numbers again prevents any misunderstandings or mistakes at installation.
Compare With New Sink Specs
When selecting your sink model:
- Match dimensions precisely
- Allow for small gaps if needed
Confirm Cutout Compatibility
Ensure your new sink cutout size, shape and holes match the existing countertop.
Carefully Check Fit Before Install
- Test sink in cabinet space
- Confirm ideal alignment
A dry run can confirm perfect fit and drainage before permanent install.
Make Any Adjustments
Use shims if small gaps exist and recheck to prevent problems later.
The sink installation will go smoothly with accurate upfront measurements. Just follow our step-by-step process for a hassle-free install and no unexpected measurement surprises.