Call a Plumber for Your Kitchen Sink Leak

websitebuilder • May 16, 2023

Why is your kitchen sink leaking into the cabinet underneath it? And why is this a plumbing problem that you need to address ASAP? The drip underneath the kitchen sink may not seem like a major plumbing issue, but it will require professional repair. If you are experiencing this common type of leak, take a look at what you need to know about repairs.

What Could Cause a Sink To Leak?

There isn't one cause for every plumbing leak. Before you schedule a repair, you may need to know the reason behind the plumbing problem. The top reasons why kitchen sinks leak include:

Drain leaks. The seal around the sink's drain could corrode or the plumber's putty used to make it tight could dry out. This can result in a leak that appears to come from the bottom of the sink.
Faucet leaks. The seal or caulking around the fixture could fail, the connection could have a gap, or this fixture could leak from the faucet.
Drain pipe leaks. The drain itself isn't the only part of this sink assembly that could leak. The pipe under the sink could have a loose seal at a joint or may not fully connect with the sink. Older pipes could corrode and crack, allowing water to leak out.

Along with the drainpipe, it's possible that the P-trap (the curved section under the sink at the bottom of the pipe) could have a crack, loose washer, or a clog. A clogged P-trap may cause debris and water to back up into the sink or leak out.

Why Do Sinks Leak?

The answer to this question depends on the cause of the leak. However, there are a few common reasons why kitchen sink leaks happen, such as:

Wear and tear. Your kitchen sink's drain is used daily. Over time, wear and tear can corrode pipes, break down gaskets and washers, or cause fixtures and faucets to fail.
Age. According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors, an acrylic kitchen sink may last for 50 years, a steel sink has a five to 10-year lifespan, and faucets have a 15 to 20-year lifespan.
Misuse. Does a household member force oil, large chunks of leftovers, or other similar items into the drain? Over time, misuse could lead to a leak.
Improper installation. Did you attempt a DIY faucet or drain installation? Failure to correctly install these plumbing components could lead to a leak. This makes it important to use professional plumbing services for repairs and installations.

Faulty or poor-quality parts can also cause a kitchen sink leak. If a previous homeowner installed the sink, or you don't feel the parts are at the quality level you expect, now is the time to replace a faucet, drain, or other parts of the kitchen sink.

Why Should You Repair a Leaking Kitchen Sink?

It's possible you didn't know about the leak right away. If the leak was under the sink, the water could drip into a cabinet for hours, days, or longer without you realizing it. When you do find the leak, you need to repair it right away. Failure to promptly repair this plumbing problem could wastewater or cause additional issues.

A leaking faucet could gallons of water. Instead of wasting money on the cost of utility bills, contact a contractor to repair the leak as soon as possible. Not only will a leak waste money, but it could also result in mold growth or damage to the cabinet surrounding the sink and drain.

Do you need help finding and fixing a leak? Contact Oak Creek Plumbing for more information.

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Thinking About Relocating Your Kitchen Sink in 2025? Key Do's and Don'ts to Know

February 1, 2025

Relocating your kitchen sink can be a game-changer for your kitchen’s functionality and style. At Oak Creek Plumbing and Remodeling , we understand that making such a significant update requires expert planning and execution. To help you navigate this project, we’ve put together a guide on the do’s and don’ts of relocating your kitchen sink in 2025. When planning your sink relocation, start by evaluating the feasibility of moving plumbing lines. Keeping the sink close to existing connections can save you money and streamline the process. Proper venting and drainage are crucial to avoid plumbing issues down the road. Don’t forget to position your sink strategically within the “kitchen work triangle” (sink, stove, and refrigerator) to maximize efficiency and convenience in your kitchen layout. At Oak Creek Plumbing and Remodeling , we recommend obtaining necessary permits and consulting with professionals to ensure the job is done right. Our licensed plumbers and kitchen remodeling experts can guide you through the process, helping you avoid costly mistakes. This is also a great opportunity to upgrade outdated pipes or consider installing a water filtration system for added functionality. Plus, a well-thought-out sink relocation can boost your kitchen’s resale value, making it a worthwhile investment. Avoid common pitfalls by addressing structural constraints, such as load-bearing walls or floor joists, which can complicate plumbing work. It’s important to budget realistically for costs, including plumbing modifications, cabinetry adjustments, and potential flooring repairs. While aesthetics are important, functionality should take priority. For example, a sink under a window is visually appealing but should not disrupt the flow of your kitchen. Electrical considerations are just as important as plumbing. Ensure proper placement of outlets, lighting, and garbage disposal wiring in the new sink area. Don’t overlook water pressure checks and drainage slope requirements, as these details are critical for preventing leaks and clogs. Above all, avoid rushing the project—cutting corners can lead to improper installations and long-term damage. At Oak Creek Plumbing and Remodeling , we specialize in seamless kitchen sink relocations that enhance both style and functionality. Whether you’re looking to optimize your kitchen layout or make a bold design statement, our team is here to help. With our expertise, you can achieve a kitchen that’s efficient, stylish, and built to last. Ready to get started on your kitchen sink relocation? Contact Oak Creek Plumbing and Remodeling today for a consultation! Let’s turn your kitchen dreams into reality.