Totally get where you’re coming from. I used to obsess over getting that bead just right, but after a few leaky disasters, I realized the real trick was making sure the base didn’t budge. It’s wild how much difference a shim or two can make under there. If it feels solid now, you’re probably in good shape. And hey, nobody talks about how awkward it is to reach behind the sink for those clips... you’re not alone.
Funny you mention those clips—I swear whoever designed them never actually tried installing a sink. I spent half an hour with my head jammed in the cabinet, dropping screws everywhere. In the end, a couple of wood shims and a little patience did more than any fancy sealant for me. Still not sure my back’s forgiven me yet...
JUST PUT IN A NEW KITCHEN SINK AND WONDERING IF ANYONE ELSE STRUGGLED THIS MUCH
- Those clips are a pain, but I’ve found they’re actually more reliable than shims long-term.
- Shims can shift over time, especially if there’s any moisture under the sink. That can lead to movement or leaks down the road.
- I usually go with the clips and a bead of quality silicone—less chance of things loosening up later.
- Not saying your way won’t work, just seen a few callbacks from shifting shims. Maybe it depends on the cabinet build?
- Either way, whoever designed those cabinets clearly never had to crawl inside one...
JUST PUT IN A NEW KITCHEN SINK AND WONDERING IF ANYONE ELSE STRUGGLED THIS MUCH
Man, those clips nearly broke me. I swear, whoever invented them must have tiny hands or a twisted sense of humor. I tried shims once—big mistake. They shifted after a couple months and I ended up with a wobbly sink and a mild panic attack. Clips plus silicone is the only way I trust now, even if it means some creative yoga under the cabinet. And yeah, the cabinet design... clearly not made for actual humans to work inside.
- Those clips are a special kind of torture, right?
- I’ve installed a few sinks and every time, the cabinet layout feels like it was designed by someone who’s never actually seen plumbing.
- I’ve had better luck with the heavy-duty silicone too, but I’ll admit, I still check for leaks for weeks after.
- Honestly, I wish more manufacturers would just pre-mount the hardware... would save a lot of bruised knuckles and swearing under the counter.
