How To Fix A Leak Under Bathroom Sink

How to Fix A Leak Under Bathroom Sink: A Plumber's Guide

Leaking bathroom sinks can be more than just a nuisance. They can lead to water damage, mold growth, and even structural problems. If you're facing a leaky bathroom sink, don't panic. With the right tools and a little know-how, you can often fix it yourself. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started.

1. Gather Your Tools and Materials

Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials on hand. You'll need a bucket or basin, a wrench, pliers, a screwdriver, a flashlight, a putty knife, and some plumber's putty or Teflon tape. You may also need a replacement drain flange or gasket, depending on the source of the leak.

2. Turn Off the Water Supply

The first step is to turn off the water supply to your bathroom sink. This will prevent any further water from leaking and allow you to work safely. There should be a shutoff valve located under the sink. Turn the valve clockwise to turn off the water.

3. Remove the Sink Drain Stopper

Once the water is turned off, you need to remove the sink drain stopper. This will allow you to access the drain flange, which is often the source of leaks.

To remove the drain stopper, unscrew the drainpipe using pliers. The drain stopper and flange should come off in one piece.

4. Inspect the Drain Flange

Once the drain flange is removed, inspect it for damage. Look for cracks, holes, or worn-out gaskets. If you find any damage, you'll need to replace the drain flange.

5. Apply Plumber's Putty or Teflon Tape

If the drain flange is in good condition, you can apply plumber's putty or Teflon tape to create a seal around the drainpipe. This will help prevent leaks.

If you're using plumber's putty, roll it into a rope and then press it into the threads of the drainpipe. If you're using Teflon tape, wrap it around the drainpipe in a clockwise direction.

6. Reinstall the Drain Flange and Sink Drain Stopper

Once you've applied plumber's putty or Teflon tape, reinstall the drain flange and sink drain stopper.

To reinstall the drain flange, insert it into the drain hole and tighten the locknut until it is snug.

To reinstall the sink drain stopper, insert it into the drain flange and tighten the retaining nut until it is snug.

7. Turn the Water Back On

Once you've reinstalled all the components, turn the water back on. Check for leaks around the drain flange and sink drain stopper. If you see any leaks, tighten or adjust the components as necessary.

8. Test the Sink

Once you're satisfied that there are no leaks, test the sink by running water into it. Let the water run for a few minutes to make sure there are no leaks. If you see any leaks, repeat the steps above until the leak is fixed.

Fixing a leak under a bathroom sink is a relatively simple task that most do-it-yourselfers can handle. However, if you're not comfortable working with plumbing, it's always best to call a professional plumber for help.