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 Replacing an outdated garbage disposal costs approximately $180 in parts and 1 hour of labor.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.
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.