Cost to Replace a Kitchen Sink: Professional Insights

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James Miller
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Understanding the Cost to Replace a Kitchen Sink

For construction professionals seeking accurate estimates on kitchen sink replacements, understanding the cost components is crucial. In San Diego, the cost typically ranges from $650 to $2,400, depending on various factors such as sink type, material, and labor complexity. Most projects average around $1,320 for a stainless steel undermount sink with a pull-down faucet.

Average Price Range in San Diego

Projects generally fall between $650 and $2,400, covering labor, fixtures, minor plumbing, and disposal. The average cost for a mid-range stainless steel sink with a pull-down faucet is approximately $1,320. Key factors influencing the cost include sink type, material, and labor requirements.

Main Cost Drivers for Kitchen Sink Replacement

1. Sink Type and Material

  • Stainless steel drop-in: $120 – $350 per unit
  • Fire-clay farmhouse: $450 – $950 per unit
  • Granite composite undermount: $300 – $700 per unit
  • Cast iron enamel: $400 – $800 per unit

2. Faucet & Accessory Upgrades

  • Basic chrome faucet: $75 – $150
  • Pull-down spray faucet: $180 – $350
  • Touchless smart faucet: $380 – $650
  • Accessories (soap dispenser, basket strainer, disposal flange): $45 – $120

3. Labor Complexity

  • Straight swap (same size, same mount): 2–3 labor hours
  • Undermount conversion (new cut-out, clips, epoxy): 4–6 labor hours
  • Farmhouse retrofit (cabinet modification, apron support): 6–8 labor hours

Labor rates range from $85–$110 per hour, depending on license class and crew size. The AI estimator includes travel and mobilization costs to prevent unexpected charges.

4. Plumbing Adjustments

Relocating the P-trap or extending supply lines can add $90 – $240 in materials and 1–2 labor hours. Replacing an outdated garbage disposal costs approximately $180 in parts and 1 hour of labor.

Detailed Cost Breakdown

Here's a sample estimate from a recent project:

  • Remove and haul away existing sink – $95
  • Supply 33" stainless steel undermount sink – $285
  • Supply pull-down faucet, matte black – $240
  • Fabricate new cut-out in quartz countertop – $175
  • Install sink with epoxy, clips, silicone – $215
  • Reconnect supply lines and disposal – $140
  • Labor tax and insurance allocation – $55
  • Total: $1,205

The client received a detailed PDF quote, including warranty and payment terms, within minutes.

Why Choose Professional Estimation?

  • Instant, voice-guided estimates
  • Live material pricing updates
  • Automated blueprint takeoffs
  • Seamless conversion from estimate to invoice
  • Vetted residential crews

Cost Reduction Strategies

  • Match sink size to existing cut-out
  • Reuse compliant garbage disposals
  • Schedule mid-week for lower rates
  • Bundle projects to reduce fees

Expert Tips

  • Reinforce farmhouse sink bases
  • Use template sinks for fitting
  • Opt for 16-gauge stainless steel
  • Ensure compliance with plumbing codes

Installation Day Timeline

  • Crew arrival and site protection: 30 minutes
  • Plumbing inspection: 45 minutes
  • Countertop modification: 60–120 minutes
  • Sink and faucet installation: 60–90 minutes
  • Final checks and cleanup: 30 minutes

Total time ranges from 3 to 5 hours, with a digital completion report provided.

Get Your Custom Estimate

For a tailored estimate, start a live call or upload a photo at CountBricks.com. Receive a reliable, itemized cost in minutes.

Our AI app can generate costed estimates in seconds.

CountBricks: How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Kitchen Sink

Case Study: Five-Hour Farmhouse Retrofit

The Ramirez family needed a modern farmhouse sink to replace their outdated double-basin stainless sink. They asked, "How much does it cost to replace a kitchen sink with a fire-clay apron style?"

Solution Path

  • Photographed existing setup via mobile app
  • Auto-generated blueprints indicated necessary modifications
  • Recommended 30" fire-clay sink and matte black hardware
  • Live pricing set the sink at $612 and faucet at $340
  • Labor optimized to 5 hours with an experienced crew

Final Costs

  • Materials: $1,048
  • Labor & insurance: $495
  • Disposal fees: $35
  • Total: $1,578

The project was completed 15% under budget.

Lessons Learned

  • Early photo uploads reduced onsite labor
  • Bundling saved mobilization fees
  • Choosing a 30" sink avoided costly countertop modifications

Next Steps

Plan your kitchen upgrade with the CountBricks AI Estimator at CountBricks.com. Get precise costs and 3D renderings quickly.