Who To Call To Fix Leaks Under Sinks
Sink repair contractors will find and fix the problem
Under-sink leaks are more than just a little spilled water—they can lead to mold, mildew, dry rot, damaged subflooring, and worse. Whether you’re noticing dampness or experiencing a flood, the answer to who to call to fix a leak under a sink is a local sink repair pro. They’ll have all of the tools and the expertise to stop the leak and get your sink flowing again in the right direction.
Benefits of Hiring a Sink Repair Pro To Fix Under-Sink Leaks
Sink repair companies deal with all types of sink repairs, so they’re your best bet. Whether the leak is coming from a pipe, the sink itself, or another spot, these contractors should be able to diagnose and fix the problem.
The best pros are licensed and insured, and they’ll also have the right tools for the job, no matter what it is, so you’ll get a good repair that stops the dripping.
And if your cabinet is beyond saving, they may also be able to replace bathroom vanities or offer related services so you can get on with your life and leave that leak behind you.
Can I DIY Repairing Leaks Under My Sink?
If you find standing water or a leak under your sink, the first thing you should do is some DIY triage: turn off the water to the faucet and clean out the area under the sink. Take everything out from underneath, mop up the water, and see if you can find the spot that’s leaking.
You might be able to fix the problem yourself if the leak is minor, like from a gap in caulking around the sink or a loose pipe connection, or if you need to clear a clogged drain. If you’re confident in your abilities, go for it.
But if you’re not so handy, you can’t find the source of the leak, or the problem looks bigger than your skills, call a sink repair company near you. Attempting to fix it yourself can result in you making things a lot worse or struggling with an ongoing leak that causes major damage.
Can I Hire a Plumber to Fix Leaky Sink Pipes?
Many sink repair contractors are also licensed plumbers, but some aren’t. This can limit the scope of services they offer. Sink repair companies deal with sink installations, clearing clogs, faucet repairs, and minor leak fixes, while plumbers can install new plumbing systems and address larger or more complex plumbing problems.
Plumbers may offer repairs, but you might find that they cost more or have less availability than sink repair companies that specialize in smaller jobs and repairs.
Can I Hire a Handyperson for Sink Leaks?
Some handypersons can repair sink leaks. You’ll need to gauge your handyperson’s abilities, the problem, and the size of the job. If the job is complex or big enough to require a licensed contractor or permits, make sure your handyperson meets those requirements. If they can’t, hire a licensed sink repair company.
Causes of Leaking Sinks
These are the top causes of under-sink leaks in kitchens and bathrooms:
Sink faucet leaks caused by worn washers, gaskets, or O-rings
Clogged P-trap
Corroded P-trap
Corroded valve seat between the faucet and the spout
Water supply line leaks
Loose or leaky drain seals
Some could be DIY fixes, while others should be left to the pros. Local sink repair companies can take care of all of these problems for you.
How Do Sink Repair Companies Fix Under-Sink Leaks?
Here’s what to expect when you hire a sink repair contractor:
First, you’ll need to clean everything out from under the sink to give your pro space to work.
When the area is clear, they’ll determine where the sink is leaking. Most of the time, sink repair services will fill the sink and let it drain to see if and where it drips.
Once they’ve found the leak the repair will vary, depending on the problem and how severe it is. It could be as simple as replacing a worn washer or O-ring, or it may require pipe replacement. In some cases, you may need a new faucet or even a new sink.
After the repair is done, your contractor should test the sink again to make sure the problem is fixed and there are no more drips.
Once the repair is complete and the area under the sink is dry, put back items that had been under the sink.
Watch the area for unexplained water or leaks until you know the repair was successful.