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| | | No longer just functional tools, faucets and sinks are now major design features in most kitchens, underscoring or even setting the style for what is often one of the most visited rooms in the house. Kitchen fixtures can range from country chic to upscale sleek, from basic bare bones to restaurant-ready. | | |
| Typical costs: | - A basic kitchen faucet starts around $25 -$75 but more upscale models can run $200 -$600 or more for custom finishes, upscale designs, sprayers, pull-out extensions, built-in soap dishes and other options. BetterHomes&Gardens.com gives an overview of the possibilities. A simple faucet installation can take less than an hour if the old fixtures is easy to remove, with installation costs starting around $75 -$200. If access is limited or there's extensive rust and corrosion installation fees can rise to $250 -$500 or more, especially if existing pipes or parts need replacing.
- A basic stainless steel kitchen sink starts at $40 -$100 but averages $125 -$450; designer or restaurant models can be as high as $500 -$2,500 or more. A standard white kitchen sink runs around $100
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| What should be included: | - Once the water is turned off, the old faucet or sink is disconnected and removed, the new one must be set in place and connected. ReadersDigest.com gives easy to follow instructions for replacing a kitchen faucet, a basic do-it-yourself project that takes about an hour or so, depending on circumstances and skill level.
- With a sink, the crucial part is properly connecting the drain. ThisOldHouse.com explains how to install a kitchen sink and estimates that unless there are complications it will require basic plumbing skills and about 4-6 hours of work. If the new sink is distinctively different from the old that could mean cutting a larger hole in the countertop (which would bump installation costs to the high end of the scale) or even the extra expense of installing new kitchen countertops.
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| Additional costs: | - Do-It-Yourself installation tools and supplies can run $20 -$50 if you don't have everything on hand.
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| Shopping for a kitchen sink: | - Major manufacturers include American Standard, Hansgrohe, KWC, Kohler, Moen, Price Pfister and Rohl.
- Most handymen can replace a faucet, but if there are any complications it might be better to hire a licensed plumber to install a sink. Plumber referrals are available through The Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association; or ask for recommendations from family, friends, or clerks in the local plumbing supply or hardware stores.
- For a complex project, get more than one estimate. Request and check references, and be sure the plumber is properly bonded, insured and licensed in your state and whether there are any complaints listed with the Better Business Bureau.
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Article updated February 2008 |
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