How to Move Bathroom Sink Plumbing Over a Few Inches for Optimal Comfort

Does your bathroom sink feel uncomfortably close to the wall? Maybe you’re installing a new vanity that requires slightly different plumbing placement. Whatever the reason, moving your bathroom sink plumbing over a few inches can be a surprisingly simple solution. We’ll educate you with the knowledge and steps to tackle this project yourself, transforming your bathroom into a more functional and enjoyable space.

So, here’s how to move bathroom sink plumbing over a few inches:

What You’ll Need For The Task:

• Adjustable wrenches (2)
• Bucket
• Hacksaw with PVC blade (if cutting pipes)
• Safety glasses
• Putty knife
• Drop cloths
• PEX tubing cutter (if using PEX pipes)
• PVC pipes and fittings (various sizes) for rerouting (if applicable)
• Solvent cement (for PVC pipes)
• Sharkbite fittings (for PEX pipes)
• New sink drain kit (if existing one won’t reach)

Ensure Your Safety First:

• Turn off the water supply valves under the sink. Double-check by opening the faucet to release any pressure.
• Place a bucket under the pipes to catch dripping water.
• Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris.

Access and Disconnect the Drain

So, how to move bathroom sink plumbing over a few inches? Here’s the first step:

Once you get the tools, begin the process of moving your bathroom sink plumbing over a few inches. 

The first step involves gaining access to the drainpipe, which will be rerouted to accommodate the new sink location.

1. Locate the P-trap: This U-shaped pipe located under the sink traps debris and prevents sewer gases from entering your bathroom. You might need to remove cabinet doors or drawers for better access.
2. Disconnecting the P-trap: Here’s where those adjustable wrenches come in handy. Locate the slip nuts on both ends of the P-trap, where it connects to the drainpipe and tailpiece. Carefully loosen these nuts using the wrenches, allowing the P-trap to detach.

Note: When moving bathroom sink plumbing over a few inches, disconnecting the P-trap provides access to the drainpipe. This pipe will be adjusted or rerouted depending on the extent of movement required. If you feel this is too much for you, stop. Don’t open up any fittings and call a professional plumbing company like JMK plumbing, right away. 

Assess the Situation for Moving Bathroom Sink Plumbing Over a Few Inches

The next step in our guide on how to move bathroom sink plumbing over a few inches involves assuming the situation.

After you successfully disconnect the P-trap and gain access to the drainpipe, it’s time to assess the situation and plan your move strategy. This crucial step ensures you have the right approach for moving your bathroom sink plumbing over a few inches.

1. Measure the Movement: First things first, grab a measuring tape and determine the exact distance you need to move the bathroom sink plumbing. Knowing the precise measurement will guide your approach and material selection in the later steps.
2. Existing Pipe Material: Not all plumbing systems are created equal. Take a close look at the type of pipe you’re dealing with. Common materials include PVC (plastic), copper, and PEX (flexible tubing). Identifying the pipe material is essential because the repair approach will differ depending on the type.

Considering the Movement Distance:

Here’s how the movement distance impacts your approach:

Minor Adjustments (under 2 inches): For small movements, you might be able to move the bathroom sink plumbing over a few inches by simply adjusting the existing P-trap. This can involve loosening the slip nut on the drainpipe side and repositioning the P-trap for a slightly different orientation. Additionally, consider using a flexible drain extension between the P-trap and the drainpipe to gain a few extra inches without extensive modifications.

Moderate Adjustments (2-4 inches): If you need to move the bathroom sink plumbing a more significant distance (between 2 and 4 inches), you’ll likely need to cut and reroute the drainpipe itself. For PVC pipes, a hacksaw with a PVC blade will be your friend. 

After making a clean cut at a strategic location, use PVC pipes and fittings to create a new path for the drain, reaching the desired location for your sink. Remember, solvent cement is crucial for creating secure connections with PVC pipes – follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper application.

PEX Pipes: If your system utilizes PEX pipes, the process is slightly different. Instead of cutting and using solvent cement, you’ll leverage a PEX tubing cutter for a clean cut. 

Then, Sharkbite fittings come into play. These handy fittings require no tools or solvents and simply connect the cut sections of PEX pipe, allowing you to reroute the drain for moving your bathroom sink plumbing over a few inches.

Final Steps: Sealing the Deal and Testing Your Success

With the drainpipe rerouted or adjusted to accommodate the new sink location, you’re nearing the finish line of moving your bathroom sink plumbing over a few inches. Here’s how to ensure a watertight and functional outcome:

1. Reconnect the P-trap: 

The trusty P-trap, previously disconnected for access, now needs to be reattached. Carefully position it between the drainpipe and tailpiece, aligning the ends. Tighten the slip nuts on both sides using the adjustable wrenches. Remember, finger-tight is sufficient; avoid over-tightening, which can damage the threads or crack the plastic.

2. Turn on the Water Supply: 

Slowly turn on the shut-off valves under the sink that control the water supply to the faucet. This is a crucial moment – anticipation builds as you prepare to test your handiwork.

3. Leak Detection

With the water flowing, carefully inspect all connection points for leaks. Look for any drips or dampness around the P-trap, drainpipe connections, and the tailpiece. If you find a leak, don’t panic! Simply tighten the loose nut or fitting slightly.

Pro Tip: While tightening the connections, place a rag underneath to catch any dripping water and avoid creating a wet mess.

4. Testing the Drain: 

Now, let’s put the entire system to the test. Open the faucet and observe the water flow. Does it drain smoothly and completely down the pipe without any backups? Additionally, ensure the P-trap holds water as intended. This U-shaped design is crucial for preventing sewer gases from entering your bathroom.

Following these steps and exercising caution, you’ll successfully move your bathroom sink plumbing over a few inches. You’ve not only gained valuable counter space or accommodated a new vanity but also empowered yourself with valuable DIY plumbing knowledge.

Bonus Tip: Before putting everything back under the sink, take a moment to snap a picture of the new plumbing layout. This can be helpful for future reference or in case you need to troubleshoot any plumbing issues down the line.

Is Moving Bathroom Sink Plumbing the Wrong Choice?

If your bathroom sink feels like it’s in your face every time you brush your teeth, or if you constantly bump your elbows on the faucet while washing your hands, moving the plumbing can help. 

The Problem: Lack of Counter Space

Many bathrooms, especially older ones, have sinks positioned uncomfortably close to the wall. This limited counter space can be frustrating and impractical.  Storing toiletries becomes a challenge, and basic tasks like shaving or applying makeup feel like an acrobatic feat.

How Moving the Plumbing Helps:

By  moving your bathroom sink plumbing  a few inches away from the wall, you can create a world of difference in your bathroom’s functionality.  Those precious extra inches translate to a more spacious countertop.  Suddenly, you have room for essential toiletries, a soap dish, and maybe even a decorative vase.  This newfound space not only improves the aesthetics of your bathroom but also makes daily routines more comfortable and convenient.

Additional Benefits:

Beyond the counter space advantage,  moving your bathroom sink plumbing  can offer other benefits:

• Adapting to a New Vanity: If you’re installing a new vanity that requires slightly different plumbing placement, moving the existing pipes allows for a seamless integration.
• Enhanced User Experience: A more comfortably positioned sink translates to a more enjoyable bathroom experience for everyone in your household.

Conclusion

And that’s how to move bathroom sink plumbing over a few inches. However, know that this is generally a manageable DIY project when the adjustments are smaller. However, extensive movements (over 6 inches) might necessitate opening walls and involving a licensed plumber to ensure proper venting and compliance with building codes.

If you want to move your bathroom plumbing to a great extent that involves major adjustments, JMK plumbing can help. We have the tools, we have the manpower and we certainly have the expertise to carry out all kinds of plumbing tasks professionally. You can call us at 786-751-2271 to get started today.