Plumber: A kitchen island without a sink

Q: Ed, we recently moved and our new kitchen has a nice island area with a natural stone countertop, but no sink! We have a basement under the kitchen, so I guess to save counter space or money the sink was never installed. We really want the sink. Is this a complicated project? Thanks. Your information can help us prepare for this job. Fred, Iowa

A: First, the good news is that you do have access under the island area. If you were on a concrete slab, that could have been a deal-breaker. Moving forward, it's a good idea to meet with your local building inspector before you start the project. This way, any necessary permits can be taken out.

Installing a new sink in your existing kitchen island can be a little complicated and could involve a few contractors. Basically, it may break down like this:

1. The contractor needs to find or create an open pocket area in the cabinet base large enough for the sink and plumbing to be installed.

2. A countertop stone-cutter can then cut out a sink hole over the pocket area where a "drop-in" style of sink can be installed.

3. The plumber can drill through the cabinet base and floor to run water and drain lines into the pocket area to connect the sink and faucet.

Finally, prepare your patience and budget ahead of time, so that you don't end up "stranded" on your kitchen island because of poor planning.

Master contractor/plumber Ed Del Grande is known internationally as the author of the book "Ed Del Grande's House Call," the host of TV and Internet shows and a LEED green associate. Visit eddelgrande.com or write eadelg@cs.com. Always consult local contractors and codes.

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Plumber: A kitchen island without a sink