Sink leaking into cabinet - what is the right way to fix?

6 years ago

We have an under-mount sink that evidently wasn't properly sealed and water pours into the cabinet below when water is sprayed around to clean the sink. We have been given advice on the "right way" to fix this, however I am curious from others what their "right way" is? Do you clean up the area, remove the caulk and then re-caulk or drop the sink, clean it up and re-install. We have this problem with 2 of the 3 bathroom sinks, so same thing there. Also, what type of caulk should be used for each location? It appears they used clear with the kitchen stainless and white (if you call it white) with the bathrooms. I think we should get the caulk for them to use because I no longer trust the builders sub-contractors. Input is appreciated!

Featured Answer

Vith

6 years ago

last modified: 6 years ago

Needs proper support. Caulking is just sealant, should not be for holding the sink. Stack a bunch of plates and then carry them, then put that plus water in the sink and thats how much weight you can imagine the sink has to hold.

No screws or clips for stone countertops with sink, always use the cabinet to support the sink.

With either the HUSH or cinclips.

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Comments (9)

randy427
6 years ago
The sinks should be uninstalled, then all mating surfaces cleaned, and then reinstalled with a non-hardening silicone caulk. Make sure the proper number of mounting clips are used or the sink could pull away. To caulk without removing the sinks would be a band-aid that is sure to leak at a later, even more inconvenient, time.
alwayscold
Original Author
6 years ago
Randy427 - any brand of caulk you recommend? We had nightmares with our shutters and one installer using stuff that yellowed in less than 4 months. Buying it myself makes me feel comfortable it is good and not subjected to extreme temps that could impact it's use. Also, for uninstalling, does the garbage disposal need to be disconnected? Or just the pipes? Bath sinks should be easy, the kitchen is the one causing my husband worry and liking a band-aid approach.
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PRO
Taylor's Cabinets & Interiors
6 years ago
100% silicone. Clear is fine. But the more likely cause of the leak is the sink is not properly mounted. If so it doesn't matter what caulk you use.

Yes all the plumbing needs to be disconnected. Disposal too. Bottom of the counter cleaned and free of old caulk. Rim of the sink too.
alwayscold
Original Author
6 years ago
Thank you, looks like we don't have enough clips holding the actual sink in to begin with.
alwayscold
Original Author
6 years ago
Ok they are here, they say it doesn't need more clips, but the plumber said it did. The sink is approximately 18x29. I only see 4 clips. The area leaking is the middle where the sink has the separation of bowls. Plumber (who isn't here now) said we should have support in the middle. Not sure how much to push the granite people on this......
User
6 years ago
Find the installation instructions for the sink and insist that they follow those to the letter.
PRO
Joseph Corlett, LLC
6 years ago
last modified: 6 years ago
No clips, no installation instructions, please. This is the right way, I swear.
PRO
Joseph Corlett, LLC
6 years ago
Vith is correct, but he forget the Sink Strap.
alwayscold thanked Joseph Corlett, LLC

Sink leaking into cabinet - what is the right way to fix?

Vith

Comments (9)

randy427

alwayscold
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Sink leaking into cabinet - what is the right way to fix?

Vith

Comments (9)

randy427

alwayscoldOriginal Author

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