Blog>Cost Guides>How much does it cost to install a kitchen sink and taps?

Last updated: 11 September 2024

How much does it cost to install a kitchen sink and taps?

If you're planning a kitchen upgrade, you'll want to know the cost to install a kitchen sink and taps as part of that project. So, we've put together the average costs in the UK to help you plan your budget.

How much does it cost to install a kitchen sink and taps?
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Fast Facts

  • On average, the cost to install a kitchen sink and taps in the UK is about £572.50

  • If you're replacing an existing sink, the cost is slightly lower at around £400

  • For accurate prices for sink and tap installation, speak to local kitchen installers in your area

Whether you're planning to install a whole new kitchen or just update your sink, keep reading to find out the cost to install a kitchen sink and taps.

In this guide, we look at the average costs in the UK and the factors that will affect the total price of installing a kitchen sink and taps.

How much does it cost to install a kitchen sink and taps?

Sink & tap (faucet) costsCost + VAT (Range low - high)Average cost
Installing sink & taps in new location – labour (3-4 hours)£75 - £150£112.50
Sink & taps – materials£120 - £800£460
Replacing an existing sink in same location£350 - £450£400
Last updated: August 2024
Our costs are ballpark averages - get a local tradesperson to quote now

The average cost to install a kitchen sink and taps in the UK is around £572.50.

That cost is a combination of labour and materials:

  • Materials – £460

  • Labour – £112.50

The exact price you pay will depend on the specification of sink installation. So, we recommend speaking to multiple kitchen fitters in your area to get quotes.

Common kitchen sink materials

Kitchen sinks come in many different materials, each with its own benefits and costs. Below are the most common sink materials:

  • Ceramic: Very common and traditional, ceramic sinks are durable and easy to clean – but they can be difficult to install due to their weight and are prone to chipping

  • Stainless steel: A very popular option, steel sinks tend to be affordable, durable and low maintenance – and lighter than ceramic

  • Composite: Stylish and modern, composite sinks come in a wide variety of styles and colours, are heatproof and highly durable

  • Cast iron: If you're looking for a stunning and colourful sink then cast iron might be for you – they're an expensive option but last a long time

https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/cost-of-fitting-a-kitchen-sink.jpg

Kitchen sink and tap additional features

To maximise your new kitchen sink and taps’ potential, you can choose to add extra features. The following list covers some of the more common options:

  • Waste disposals

  • Removable spray heads

  • Trickle features

  • Draining boards

  • Motion activated taps

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Factors affecting the cost of fitting a kitchen sink

The price of your new kitchen sink is determined by a wide number of factors affecting its performance and style. When budgeting for your new sink it is wise to consider the following:

  • Materials: This is one of the biggest factors affecting the price of your new sink – a cast iron sink is typically the most expensive option and stainless steel is the most affordable

  • Pipework: Adding, moving or replacing pipework to accommodate your new sink will increase the installation cost

  • Extra features: Opting for any additional features, such as waste disposals and draining boards, will increase the cost of your new sink and taps

  • Size of sink: Installing larger sinks usually costs more due to the extra materials and labour needed

  • Location: The cost of materials and labour varies in different parts of the country, with London and the South East usually being the most expensive

  • Complexity of the installation: If your sink's location is hard to access or the installation is particularly complex it will cost more

Labour cost to install a kitchen sink

For any sink installation, you need to consider the labour costs involved – as this will contribute to the total cost.

The average labour cost to install a kitchen sink is £112.50.

In general, a standard sink installation will take around 1-4 hours, depending on the complexity of the installation.

Average cost to install a kitchen sink based on location

The location of your new sink will directly affect the cost of installation. Moving your sink to a new location will generally be more expensive than replacing a sink in the same place.

There's a fairly significant price difference between the two options:

  • Installing a kitchen sink in the same location –£400

  • Installing a sink in a new location –£572.50

cost of fitting a kitchen sink

Can I install a sink and taps myself?

It's certainly possible to install a kitchen sink and taps yourself. However, it's important to consider the following points when making that decision:

  • Hiring a professional will mean your drains and pipes are checked at the same time and any issues can be dealt with before they escalate

  • New sinks can be heavy and if dropped could be damaged or even cause an injury

  • While a professional will likely only take 1–4 hours, it can take twice as long to install a sink yourself, anything from 4 – 8 hours

  • The quality of the finish will probably be impacted unless you have specific training and experience

  • It is much easier to replace an old sink like for like than to install a sink from scratch

To get the best results, we would always recommend hiring a professional to carry out the work for you.

To find the best sink installers near you, enter your postcode in the box below and browse a list of approved local tradespeople in your area:

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Useful sink and tap checklist

  • Replacing your kitchen sink and taps can give your dated kitchen a much-needed makeover

  • Kitchen sinks can be made from materials such as ceramic, composite, stainless steel and cast iron

  • The size of the sink, the materials used and added features all impact the cost of fitting a kitchen sink and taps

  • It is much easier to replace a sink like for like than to install a completely new kitchen sink

  • The weight of the sink, the complexity of the job and the time needed are all reasons that make it difficult to install a kitchen sink yourself

FAQs

What is the difference between replacing and installing a new kitchen sink?

It is more affordable to replace a current sink than to install a new sink. This is because when installing a new sink from scratch.

That means new piping will need to be installed, your work surface will need to be cut and the area will need to be properly finished.

What are the most common types of taps/ faucets?

When choosing your new taps or faucets, it is important to consider how they will be used and what features you require.

Most DIY or home shops will carry a range of taps including those with single or double handles, waterfall taps, touch taps, and even motion-activated taps.

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