How do I plan a NB workstation sink install?

Planning a workstation sink installation in New Brunswick requires careful consideration of your existing plumbing, electrical needs, and cabinet modifications — this isn't a simple sink swap and typically requires professional plumbing and cabinet work.

A workstation sink is significantly larger and heavier than a standard kitchen sink, featuring integrated cutting boards, colanders, and drying racks that slide within the sink basin. The installation involves modifying your cabinet opening, potentially relocating plumbing lines, and ensuring adequate structural support for the increased weight.

Cabinet and Structural Considerations

Most workstation sinks require a 36-inch or wider cabinet base, compared to the 30-33 inch cabinets that house standard sinks. You'll likely need to remove the center stile between two cabinets or install a completely new wider cabinet. The sink weighs 40-80 pounds empty (versus 15-25 pounds for standard sinks), so the cabinet bottom may need reinforcement with additional support brackets.

In New Brunswick's older housing stock, this often means dealing with original 1960s-1990s cabinetry that wasn't designed for modern oversized sinks. If your existing cabinets have a laminate finish, cutting and modifying them rarely looks seamless — you may need to plan for new cabinets in that section of your kitchen.

Plumbing Modifications

The larger basin typically requires relocating your water supply lines and potentially the drain connection. In many NB homes with galvanized plumbing (common pre-1980), this is actually an opportunity to upgrade those corroded lines to modern PEX or copper. However, moving plumbing adds $1,500-$4,000 to your project cost and requires a plumbing permit through your municipality or Regional Service Commission.

The drain connection is particularly important — workstation sinks are deeper than standard sinks, which can affect the drain slope required by the NB Building Code. Your plumber needs to ensure proper drainage to prevent standing water and odors.

Electrical and Ventilation Planning

Many workstation sinks benefit from additional under-cabinet lighting to illuminate the work surface, and some homeowners add a small prep sink electrical circuit for a garbage disposal. Any new electrical work requires a permit and inspection in New Brunswick. If you're in a rural area served by an RSC, factor in 2-5 weeks for permit processing.

Consider upgrading your range hood ventilation as well — the increased food prep activity around a workstation sink generates more moisture and cooking odors, especially important in New Brunswick's humid summers.

Timing and Professional Help

Order your workstation sink 4-6 weeks before installation, as many models are special-order items in the Maritimes. The installation typically takes 2-3 days: day one for cabinet modifications and rough plumbing, day two for final plumbing and sink installation, and day three for any countertop adjustments and final connections.

When to Hire Professionals

Cabinet modifications, plumbing relocations, and electrical work all require professional expertise. A kitchen renovator can coordinate all trades and ensure the installation meets NB Building Code requirements. The total cost typically ranges from $3,000-$8,000 including the sink, cabinet work, and plumbing modifications.

Need help finding a kitchen renovator experienced with workstation sink installations? New Brunswick Kitchens can match you with local professionals who understand the complexities of retrofitting these sinks into existing NB kitchens.