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How to raise an under-sink shelf around pipes?

VincentK
Finding My Feet

How to raise an under-sink shelf around pipes?

I want to raise the height of my under-sink shelf. It needs to come up by 40mm,

The question is, how do I raise the thing around that sink drainage pipe?

I was hoping I could just slide the shelf up.

 

The grey section just above the shelf (with the pink tape on top) seems to be attached to the shelf via the white seal ring.  Would that be a normal thing to do during installation and can I just attempt to peel off / cut the white seal ring?

I don't want to risk breaking the pipes - any advice appreciated. 

 

Thanks!

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EricL
Bunnings Team Member
Bunnings Team Member

Re: Raising an under-sink shelf around pipes

Hello @VincentK 

 

In this instance the plumber has done his job very well and even sealed the pipe cut out in the shelf. It appears that there is enough space for the shelf to move up to the next position as indicated by the holes in the shelf wall. You should technically be able to remove the shelf flange and move the shelf up.

 

But if the cut out is too small, it will be necessary to disassemble part of the wastepipe so that you can slide the shelf out and cut a larger hole. Once you've cut the bigger hole, I suggest testing its new position by moving the shelf supports up to the next level. Worst case scenario is that you'll need to cut a larger hole to accommodate the wastepipe assembly as it will hit the shelf.

 

Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1 and @Nailbag for their recommendations.

 

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

 

Eric

 

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Dave-1
Community Megastar

Re: Raising an under-sink shelf around pipes

Good Evening @VincentK 

I really cant add more to what @EricL has suggested :smile: They are the steps I would be suggesting as well. Just have some low edged buckets and old towels about when you disconnect the pipes is the only thing I can add. The water in the bend may be a little stinky, probarly wont be needed as it looks slopped but better to be safe :smile:

 

Dave

Nailbag
Kind of a Big Deal

Re: How to raise an under-sink shelf around pipes?

Hi @VincentK 

 

You will need to disconnect all the pipes and tubing. Then slide the shelf out and reposition the shelf supports up as required. Then measure and mark a cut out from the rear of the shelf forward. Use a circular saw for the straight cuts and a jig saw with a "scrolling blade to make the curved one. Alternatively a jigsaw for both cuts. But use a standard blade for the straight cuts. Make the cuts with the board upside down as this will result in any splintering of the cut edge on the underside unseen. This will now allow you to slide the shelf back in. Reconnect the pipes and check for leaks.

If in doubt your local plumber can complete the task.

 

Nailbag


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VincentK
Finding My Feet

Re: How to raise an under-sink shelf around pipes?

Thanks for all the helpful advice guys - I really appreciate the suggestions. 

The amount of detail you guys have gone to is unbelievable - I'm going to try it out over the weekend.

I'll let you know how I go!

MitchellMc
Bunnings Team Member
Bunnings Team Member

Re: How to raise an under-sink shelf around pipes?

Hi @VincentK,

 

I'm all for DIY'ing, but I just wanted to point out so you're aware that this is considered plumbing work and requires a licensed plumber to disassemble and reassemble the pipework.

 

Mitchell

 

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Re: How to raise an under-sink shelf around pipes?

Yes of course that’s an important point to mention @MitchellMc which I should have stated myself @VincentK 

 

Nailbag 

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