That's definitely relatable—dry fitting helps, but it's never foolproof. Cabinets and plumbing spaces rarely match the ideal countertop scenario, especially in older homes or custom builds. A couple things I've found helpful:
- Taking quick measurements of the actual under-sink space beforehand (height, depth, weird angles).
- Snapping a few phone pics from different angles to reference later.
- Sometimes even mocking up a rough cardboard template if the space is really tight or oddly shaped.
Even then, surprises still pop up. Had one job recently where everything looked great until I realized the garbage disposal was just a hair wider than expected—had to rethink the drain pipe angles on the fly.
Do you find certain fixture brands or types are easier to adjust on-site when things don't line up perfectly? I've noticed some brands have more forgiving connectors or adjustable fittings that save headaches down the road...
I've definitely run into similar headaches. From my experience, Delta and Kohler fixtures tend to have more forgiving connectors and fittings, especially their pull-down faucets. They usually come with flexible supply lines and adjustable mounting hardware, which can be a lifesaver when you're dealing with tight or awkward spaces.
On the flip side, some of the more boutique or imported brands, while beautiful, can be a nightmare if things don't line up perfectly. I once had a client insist on a sleek European faucet that looked amazing in the showroom but had zero wiggle room for adjustments. Ended up having to custom-order adapters and fittings just to make it work—lesson learned.
Also, I've found that fixtures with separate mounting plates or escutcheons can help hide minor alignment issues. Gives you a bit more flexibility if your countertop or sink cutout isn't exactly perfect. It's not always ideal aesthetically, but sometimes practicality wins out...
