Methods to fasten an installation element, in particular a sink, to the edge of a receiving opening for the installation element in a work surface are disclosed, wherein the installation element has at least one holding element, which enables the installation element to be fastened simply and quickly to the work surface. A disclosed method comprises: (a) arranging a variable-volume material on the installation element and/or on the holding element and/or on the work surface and/or between the installation element and the work surface; (b) arranging the installation element in the receiving opening of the work surface; (c) changing the volume of the variable-volume material, so that a clamping body is formed from the variable-volume material, which exerts a resultant force on the holding element of the installation element, which causes the installation element to be pulled towards the work surface.