Learn why a handmade kitchen sink may show a slight gap before installation and how correctly tightened sink clips can improve the fit against the benchtop.

Sink Not Sitting Flat? How Installation Clips Reduce the Gap

If you notice a slight gap between the rim of a new kitchen sink and the benchtop before installation, it does not necessarily mean the sink is defective.

Handmade stainless steel sinks are individually formed and finished during manufacturing. Because of this process, minor variations may occasionally occur. The benchtop itself may also have slight variations in level or flatness.

In many cases, the gap can be significantly reduced during installation by correctly fitting and tightening the supplied sink clips.

What Do Sink Clips Do?

Sink clips are designed to secure the sink firmly against the underside of the benchtop.

As the clips are tightened, they apply downward pressure around the sink rim. This helps pull the sink evenly against the benchtop, reducing visible gaps and creating a cleaner, more secure fit.

The clips should be installed in the correct positions and tightened gradually and evenly. Fully tightening one clip before the others may create uneven pressure around the sink.

Before and After Tightening the Clips

In the video above, there is a noticeable gap between the sink rim and the benchtop before the clips are secured.

Once the clips are installed and tightened evenly, the sink is pulled firmly against the benchtop. The gap is significantly reduced, and the sink sits more securely in position.

The final result can vary depending on the sink, the flatness of the benchtop and the quality of the installation.

Watch: How Sink Clips Reduce the Gap

Important Installation Tips

For the best result:

• Make sure the benchtop surface is clean and level.
• Position the sink correctly before tightening the clips.
• Install all supplied clips in the recommended locations.
• Tighten the clips gradually and evenly.
• Do not overtighten the clips, as excessive pressure may damage the sink or benchtop.
• Apply a suitable kitchen or sanitary-grade sealant around the sink rim to help prevent water from entering underneath.
• Allow the sealant to cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Installation requirements can vary depending on whether the sink is being installed as a top-mount, undermount or flush-mount sink. We recommend having the sink installed by a qualified and experienced tradesperson.

Handmade Kitchen Sinks in Perth

Perth Sinks supplies a wide range of handmade stainless steel kitchen and laundry sinks in Perth, Western Australia.

Our sinks are available in different sizes, configurations and finishes, including stainless steel, gunmetal and brushed gold.

View our kitchen sink range at https://perthsinks.com.au/