A leaking, kitchen sink is a plumbing issue that requires immediate attention to avoid additional damage to your home. Even the smallest of leaks carry the potential to ruin cabinetry, damage flooring or invite mold and mildew growth into your home. Sometimes a leak can be hard to identify and go unnoticed until it is too late and the damage is done. Inspect your kitchen sink plumbing regularly to avoid the unfortunate circumstances mentioned above.
Common Kitchen Sink Leaks
The following sink components can develop a leak:
- Shut-off valves—connect to both the hot and cold water lines leading to the faucet, dishwasher and sometimes the refrigerator's icemaker. As these valves deteriorate with age, they can develop a small leak.
- Supply lines—are rubber, plastic or braided hoses that connect to the shut-off valves, faucet and dishwasher. While they are very durable, they can become brittle with age and crack or begin to leak around their connection fittings.
- Sink drainpipes—can develop leaks from failing gaskets, pipe deterioration or from simply bumping the pipes with items stored under the sink.
- Sink drain baskets—attach to sink openings that house the strainers. While drain baskets vary between manufacture, many utilize a rubber gasket and plumber's putty to seal the basket to the sink opening. If the seals deteriorate due to age or normal wear and tear, the sink baskets can develop a leak.
- Garbage disposal—leaks can occur around the fittings where the appliance connects to the sink drain, the sink itself or through its exterior housing. A leaking housing usually means it is time for replacement.
Small Leaks are Hard to Identify
You might not know this but over time, a small leak can cause you big problems down the road. These annoying leaks are a plumbing issue that is often hard to spot and can go unnoticed for several months while wreaking havoc on your kitchen cabinetry, walls and flooring. If you suspect your kitchen sink plumbing has developed a leak, place newspaper underneath the sink to help locate it. Check the pipes above any wet spots that appear on the paper. If you discover a wet pipe, contact your plumber immediately to prevent additional damage. If you notice a fuzzy, powdery substance growing on your cabinet interiors, chances are high you have a leak close by. Mold and mildew spores pose a serious health risk, especially to people suffering from respiratory illnesses or allergies.
Act Now or Pay "More" Later
The cost to repair a leaking sink drain is small compared to cabinet replacement. When you discover your sink or garbage disposal is or has been leaking, you must act fast to avoid additional damage. First, turn off the supply valves to your kitchen faucet. Next, empty the contents of the cabinets and remove any standing water. A wet or dry vacuum is ideal but a sponge, paper towels or rags will suffice if one is not available. Finally, contact your plumber immediately.
For answers to your questions about leaks in your kitchen or bathroom sinks, contact the Pink Plumber today.
