A wall hung basin is a hallmark of contemporary bathroom design, offering a clean, minimalist aesthetic that can make any space feel larger and more open. By floating above the floor, it creates an illusion of space and simplifies cleaning. While the finished look is sleek and professional, many homeowners are intimidated by the installation process, assuming it’s a job strictly for professional plumbers.
However, with careful planning, the right tools, and a solid understanding of the process, it is a project that a confident DIYer can successfully complete. Learning How to Install a Wall Hung Basin involves securing the basin firmly to the wall and making the correct plumbing connections. This guide will provide a clear, step-by-step walkthrough, demystifying the process and giving you the confidence to tackle this stylish bathroom upgrade yourself.
Why Installing a Wall Hung Basin is a Smart Upgrade
Choosing to install a wall hung basin is a brilliant move for anyone looking to modernize their bathroom. The primary benefit is the space it creates; by lifting the fixture off the floor, you get an uninterrupted floor line that makes the room feel significantly bigger and airier.
This design is not only stylish but also practical, as it makes cleaning the floor underneath incredibly easy. It offers a high-end, hotel-inspired look that can significantly boost your home’s aesthetic appeal and property value, making it a smart and functional renovation choice.
9 Step-by-Step Guide: How to Install Wall Hung Basin
Step 1: Prepare the Installation Area
Before installing a wall hung basin, it is essential to ensure that the installation area is suitable for this type of fixture. The walls must be sturdy enough to support the weight of the basin and any additional weight when in use.
Check the plumbing connections to ensure they are in the correct position and free from any leaks or blockages. Measure and mark the desired height for the basin, keeping in mind the comfort of the intended users. Use a spirit level to ensure the markings are even, as this will be critical for proper alignment during installation.
Step 2: Install the Mounting Bracket
The mounting bracket is an essential component for securely attaching the basin to the wall. It is typically included in most basin packages and should be installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Start by holding the mounting bracket against the marked height on the wall and ensuring it is level. Use a drill to create pilot holes at each of the designated screw positions. Then, secure the bracket to the wall using appropriate screws or bolts.
It is important to ensure that the mounting bracket is securely attached to avoid any accidents or damage caused by a loose basin. Double check its stability before proceeding with further installation steps.
Step 3: Prepare the Plumbing Connections
Once the mounting bracket is securely attached, it’s time to prepare the plumbing connections. Start by connecting the hot and cold water supply lines to their corresponding inlets on the underside of the basin. Use a wrench to tighten these connections and ensure that they are leak-proof.
Next, connect the drain pipe below the basin. This can usually be done by screwing or attaching a clamp onto the designated outlet on the underside of the basin. Again, use a wrench to tighten this connection and check for any leaks.
Step 4: Drill the Holes and Install the Fixing Bolts
Once your fixing points are marked, you can drill the holes for the mounting hardware. Choose a drill bit that is appropriate for the wall material and slightly smaller than the diameter of your fixing bolts’ wall plugs. Drill carefully into your marked spots, ensuring the holes are straight and at the correct depth. Gently tap the wall plugs into the holes until they are flush with the wall surface. Then, screw the threaded fixing bolts into the wall plugs, leaving enough of the bolt protruding to mount the basin.
Step 5: Mount the Basin onto the Wall
This is often a two-person job, as basins can be heavy and awkward. Carefully lift the basin and guide it onto the protruding fixing bolts. Once it is resting on the bolts, place the plastic washers and then the metal washers over the bolts, followed by the nuts. Hand-tighten the nuts initially. Place your spirit level on top of the basin to double-check that it is perfectly level. Make any minor adjustments needed before you fully tighten the nuts with a wrench. Be careful not to over-tighten, as this could crack the ceramic.
Step 6: Install the Faucet and Pop-Up Drain
It is much easier to install the faucet and the pop-up drain assembly before the plumbing connections are made. With the basin securely on the wall, insert the faucet into the pre-drilled tap hole on the basin. From underneath, attach the fixing nuts to secure the faucet in place. Next, install the pop-up drain in the drain hole, using plumber’s putty or the supplied gaskets to create a watertight seal. Tighten the retaining nut from below to secure the drain assembly. This part of the process is crucial for learning how to install wall hung basin without leaks.
Step 7: Connect the Water Supply Lines
Now it’s time for the plumbing connections. Attach the flexible water supply lines to the hot and cold inlets on the bottom of the faucet. Then, connect the other ends of these lines to the corresponding hot and cold water shut-off valves (angle stops) coming out of the wall.
Tighten these connections first by hand and then give them a gentle quarter-turn with a wrench. Do not over-tighten, as this can damage the fittings. This step brings your new basin to life by providing it with water.
Step 8: Connect the Drain Pipe and P-Trap
The final plumbing step is to connect the drain. Attach the P-trap assembly to the tailpiece of the pop-up drain you installed earlier. The P-trap is the U-shaped pipe that holds water to block sewer gases. Align the P-trap so that its outlet arm connects directly to the main drain pipe in the wall. You may need to cut the pipe to the correct length. Secure all the slip joint nuts by hand, ensuring all gaskets are properly seated to prevent leaks. A correct P-trap installation is a vital part of how to install wall hung basin correctly.
Step 9: Seal and Finish the Installation
With all connections made, turn the water on at the shut-off valves and check thoroughly for any leaks at the supply lines, faucet, and drain connections. If you find any drips, gently tighten the corresponding nut until it stops.
Once you are confident there are no leaks, apply a neat bead of silicone sealant along the back edge of the basin where it meets the wall. This prevents water from splashing down behind the basin and gives the installation a clean, professional finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Height to Install a Wall Hung Basin?
The standard height for the top rim of a basin is between 30 and 36 inches (76-91 cm) from the floor. However, the great advantage of a wall hung basin is that you can customize the height to your preference. For a family with children, you might go slightly lower. For taller adults, you might prefer it a bit higher. A comfortable height is one where you can wash your hands without bending over too much.
Does My Wall Need to Be Reinforced?
Yes, absolutely. A wall hung basin, especially when filled with water, is very heavy. It cannot be safely supported by plasterboard or drywall alone. The wall must be reinforced by fixing the basin bolts directly into the wall studs or into a solid piece of timber (a noggin) installed horizontally between the studs. This provides the necessary structural support to hold the weight securely.
Can I Install a Wall Hung Basin on a Stud Wall?
Yes, you can install a wall hung basin on a stud wall, but this is where wall reinforcement is most critical. You must open the wall to install horizontal timber blocking between the studs at the height where the basin’s fixing bolts will be located. The basin is then secured to this solid blocking, not to the hollow sections of the wall.
What Is a Bottle Trap and Do I Need One?
A bottle trap is a stylish alternative to the standard plastic P-trap. It serves the same function—holding water to block sewer gases—but has a sleek, cylindrical chrome or metallic finish. Because the plumbing under a wall hung basin is exposed, many people choose a decorative bottle trap to create a more aesthetically pleasing, high-end look. It is a design choice, not a functional requirement.
How Do I Hide the Plumbing for a Wall Hung Basin?
While many people choose to display stylish chrome plumbing, you have options if you prefer to hide it.
- Semi-Pedestal: Some basins have a matching ceramic semi-pedestal that covers the plumbing and attaches to the wall underneath the basin.
- Box-in: You can build a small section of stud wall directly under the basin to conceal the pipes, which you can then tile or paint.
Conclusion
Mastering how to install wall hung basin is an empowering DIY skill that can completely transform the look and feel of your bathroom. This project allows you to create a modern, spacious, and stylish room while gaining valuable plumbing and construction experience. While it requires careful attention to detail, particularly regarding wall reinforcement and creating leak-free connections, the process is straightforward when taken one step at a time.
Don’t be daunted by this sophisticated bathroom upgrade. With the knowledge from this guide and a methodical approach, you are fully equipped to achieve a professional-quality installation. Enjoy the satisfaction of completing this rewarding project and the daily pleasure of your beautiful new wall hung basin.