How to Install an ADA-Compliant Under-Sink Plumbing Shield

Begin by completely clearing out the cabinet or area under the sink. Remove all cleaning supplies, baskets, and other items to create an unobstructed workspace. Use a flashlight to inspect the pipes for any pre-existing drips or leaks. Place a small bucket or pan under the P-trap to catch any residual water. Turn off the hot and cold water supply by turning the handles on the angle stop valves clockwise until they stop. Finally, use cleaning rags and a degreasing cleaner to wipe down the P-trap, supply lines, and valves to ensure the new shields will have a clean surface to wrap around.

Using a flexible tape measure, carefully measure the lengths of all plumbing components that need to be covered. This includes: the full length of the P-trap assembly (from the wall connection to the sink tailpiece), the height of the hot and cold angle stop valves, and the length of the hot and cold water supply lines (from the valve to the faucet connection). Write down these measurements, noting which measurement corresponds to which part.

Unroll the vinyl shield components from the kit. Using the measurements you just took, mark the cutting lines on the back of the vinyl pieces. Place the vinyl on a protected surface or a cutting mat. Use a sharp utility knife or a pair of heavy-duty scissors to carefully cut each shield piece to its required length. Ensure your cuts are straight and clean for a professional-looking installation. Most kits will have separate, pre-formed pieces for the P-trap, the valves, and the supply lines.

Take the large, trimmed shield piece designated for the P-trap. Open the hook-and-loop fasteners along its seam. Carefully wrap the shield around the entire P-trap assembly, ensuring it molds to the curves of the trap. Overlap the seam and press the hook-and-loop fastener strips firmly together along their entire length to create a secure, snug fit. Adjust as needed to ensure there are no gaps and the entire trap is insulated.

First, take the trimmed covers for the angle stop valves. Wrap one around the hot water valve and the other around the cold water valve, securing them with their hook-and-loop fasteners. Next, take the trimmed shields for the supply lines. Wrap one around the hot water supply line and the other around the cold water supply line, ensuring they cover the lines from the top of the valve cover all the way to the connection at the base of the faucet. Press the fasteners together securely. The goal is to create a continuous, insulated barrier with no exposed pipe or sharp connection points.

Visually inspect the entire installation. Check that all shields are securely fastened and that there are no exposed sections of pipe, valves, or abrasive fittings. Gently tug on each shield to ensure it is secure. Slowly turn the angle stop valve handles counter-clockwise to restore the water supply. Turn on the hot water at the faucet and let it run for a minute. Using your flashlight, carefully inspect all connections at the valves and faucet for any signs of dripping or leaks. If everything is dry and secure, the installation is complete.