Leveling a pedestal sink ... by 1/4 inch

Assuming the actual sink part is securely mounted to 2x4's so it can stand free without pedestal, your idea would work. You could hide the shims better then caulk around base for a more professional look. They do sell metal/composite shims as well and they may last longer than wood. There will be an obvious bigger fill of caulk there but it's the best you can do with an out of level floor. Just a suggestion.

Some plumbers who have the right kind of tools would grind off the base of the pedestal 1/8 in. so it sits more securely and evenly on the floor then caulk. However, this requires special tools, more work and skills the average diyer may not have.


Looks great andyhome. Nice job.

Thanks. I won't be doing any pedastal grinding in this lifetime but will pick up some composite shims.

Unfortunately, i doubt there are studs where i'll be screwing in the sink but I'll do that as securely as I can. this is a 1930s house so chicken wire,lathe and plaster are behind the walls and the PRIOR sink was secured with bolts that went into metal anchors so I will try to do the same.

Gotcha. Older homes are a bit of a challenge. Looks great.

Look for plastic or rubber toilet shims. They are easy to cut with a razor knife.
Cut just shy of the overall length. This way, the caulk will hide them better

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TheEplumber said:

Look for plastic or rubber toilet shims. They are easy to cut with a razor knife.
Cut just shy of the overall length. This way, the caulk will hide them better

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Are those different than composite shims?

yes. https://www.lowes.com/pd/Plumb-Pak-Nylon-Toilet-Shims-Soft/3133327

I would use the toilet ships and then pump some PL premium under the thing around the edge before caulking. The PL sets up rock hard, the caul covers the oops. Ron

ront02769 said:

I would use the toilet ships and then pump some PL premium under the thing around the edge before caulking. The PL sets up rock hard, the caul covers the oops. Ron

Click to expand...

I read that the PL Premium is a permanent adhesive. Our plans include remodeling the entire bathroom at which point we may need to move the pedestal an inch or two ... so normal caulk over the the composite or rubber shims is probably a better way to go. But thanks.

Then after the plastic shims caulk with 100% silicon not water based,

Rats. I picked up composite shims instead of plastic ones like a moron. Really want to finish the pedestal tonight.

So do I set them and mark them and then take them out and cut them with a saw? plastic would have been better for sure but too late now.