Your kitchen sink clips are the foundation of your sink, especially if you have an undermount sink like me. The silicone sealant does act as an adhesive between your countertop, but it does not have the strength to hold your sink in place. The kitchen sink clips are what will keep your sink attached to the countertop, hence it is essential to ensure that you install them properly.

The kitchen sink clips are not universal. Different type of sinks requires different types of clips, and they also have varied methods to install. Installing the clips is a fairly simple process compared to shaping your countertop or attaching the plumbing to your new kitchen sink.

Note: This project might require you to operate heavy machinery like a power drill. Always wear protective goggles and gloves while operating such machines.

In top-mount sinks, the sink clips slide into the groove running along the perimeter on the underside of the sink. For these kinds of sinks, the clips act as an additional layer of safety. Conversely, in undermount sinks, the sink clips are the central apparatus for attaching the sink to the countertop.

To install kitchen sink clips to a brand new countertop, you might need to drill holes into the underside of the countertop. Use the cardboard sink cut-out provided with your sink to locate the required placement for your sink clips. Using a power drill, make the holes into the countertop. Be mindful of the size of the clip holes. Drilling too deep might affect the sink’s stability. Furthermore, if you have any questions, refer to the manufacturer’s guide.

Additionally, many new kitchen sink clips come with adhesives. In this case, no drilling is needed. The clip brackets attach directly to the underside of the sink.

Your kitchen sink clips need to be evenly spread across the surface of the sink, irrespective of its type. Additionally, in order to have stability, clips need to be installed equidistantly.

Average Cost To Install Kitchen Sink Clips

Based on your type of sink, you’ll need to purchase top-mount kitchen sink clips or undermount kitchen sink clips. The typical cost of clips will range between $10-$40.

Time Required

You can install your kitchen sink clips within 30 mins. Be patient while drilling holes into your countertop. Additionally, if using adhesive, allow it to dry for 15-20 minutes.

Tools & Materials

• Silicone Sealant
• Screwdriver
• Utility Knife
• Sink Clips

Installing Sink Clips To a Top-Mount Sink

As the name suggests, a top-mount sink is attached to your countertop from above the sink opening. Top-mount sinks have grooves on their underside into which you’ll install the kitchen sink clips. Follow these steps to install kitchen clips to your top-mount sink.

• Flip your sink upside down and locate the groove which runs throughout the perimeter of the sink.
• Insert your kitchen clips into the grooves, following the manufacturer’s instructions for spacing between each clip.

IMPORTANT TIP – Turn the clips towards the sink. You will need to drop your sink into the opening after inserting the clips.

• Installing your kitchen sink will require a generous coat of silicone sealant to be applied to the underside of the sink.
• Drop the sink into your countertop opening and carefully align it to the opening.
• Access the underside of your sink through the sink cabinet and turn your kitchen clips outwards to install them.
• Lastly, insert screws into the clips, tighten them using a screwdriver and ensure they are set firmly in place.

Installing Sink Clips To an Undermount Sink 

Undermount kitchen sink clips come in two parts – the post and the bracket.

The posts will attach directly to the underside of the countertop. Following your manufacturer’s instructions, either drill into your countertop and screw the anchors in place or use the provided adhesive to install the post.

IMPORTANT TIP – Clean the underside of your countertop with either alcohol or soap before you install your kitchen sink clips.

Space out your posts to cover all sides of your sink and maintain equal distance between them to ensure stability. If using adhesive, use a generous amount for each post and allow it to dry for 15-20 mins before proceeding to install your undermount sink.

After installing your posts, proceed to install your undermount kitchen sink. Similar to the top-mount sink, generously apply silicone sealant around the perimeter of the sink and firmly press it against the underside of the countertop. You will need to hold the sink in place while the sealant dries. Place a rack of 2 x 4s beneath your sink to support it.

Lastly, attach your brackets. The brackets connect your posts and the sink. Thread each bracket onto the post and screw the provided slip-nut by hand to complete the installation.

Frequently Asked Questions: How to Install Kitchen Sink Clips

Are kitchen sink clips universal?

No, they vary by sink. Depending on the type of sink you have, you will need to purchase the sink clips accordingly.

Can I re-use old sink clips?

If you are installing a new sink, it is advisable to use the clips provided by the manufacturer.