How to Install a Kitchen Faucet Using Putty

Installing new kitchen faucets can do wonders for the look of your kitchen. Modernize and add value to your kitchen with this easy project. This is a do-it-yourself project that anyone can do. There are many types of faucet assemblies on the market, so you're sure to find one to fit your budget. From start to finish, this installation should take less than an hour.

Instructions

1

Turn off water valves under the sink if you are removing an old faucet. Remove the old faucet and clean up the sink where it was sitting. This may take a little scraping of old adhesive or cleaning up some old putty. Wipe the area with rubbing alcohol or white distilled vinegar when you're done so there is no residue left on the sink.

2

Attach the flex hoses to the hot and cold water lines of the faucet. This can also be done once the faucet is in place, but it's easier to do while you are not under the sink. Hand tighten them and use pliers if necessary. Don't overtighten or you can cause them to leak.

3

Apply plumber's putty to the bottom of the new faucet, also known as a deck plate. Scrape it on all around the bottom outside edge and use liberally. Once the faucet is fastened on, the putty will squeeze out around the edges and can easily be removed. If the faucet came with a putty plate, place the putty in the grove of the putty plate and then put the putty plate on the deck plate.

4

From under the sink, install the washers and mounting hardware for the faucet. Hand tighten and check to make sure the faucet is straight. Tighten with a wrench but, again, don't overtighten.

5

Remove the excess putty on the sink with a putty knife. A damp rag should be able to remove the residue left after scraping.

6

Connect flexible water lines to supply lines just behind the valve knob. Hand tighten or tighten with pliers, but be careful not to overtighten.

7

Turn on the water valves and check for leaks. If you find a leak, turn off water and adjust water lines. If the lines are not tight enough or too tight, it can cause them to leak.