Did you know that slow faucet leaks can quickly mean trouble? While it may seem like just a few drops of water, it may already be too late by the time you notice the issue. 

We use our sinks every day, and as with anything subjected to daily use, parts deteriorate, and leaks are bound to happen. By learning why sinks leak and how to identify these issues, you can stay one step ahead of the curve to protect your cabinets and floors. 

Problems Caused by Leaky Sinks

All of the issues caused by leaky faucets cost homeowners money, and just how much depends on the severity of the leak and how long it goes unattended. At a minimum, you can expect a higher water bill, but expensive and time-consuming renovations become inevitable the longer the problem goes untreated. 

Identifying a leaky sink as soon as possible is essential for preventing a variety of long-term problems. Common issues caused by leaky faucets include mold, water stains, flooding, and water waste.

Mold

Everyone’s worst nightmare; mold can quickly multiply in moist environments, such as below a leaky faucet. Not only does mold cause unsightly damage, it poses a serious health risk in your home.

Warps and Stains

Cabinets and floorboards below a leaky faucet are susceptible to water stains and warping. Even the ceiling below can sustain damage. And once the damage starts, homeowners will usually have to conduct costly renovations. 

Flooding

Obviously, flooding inside your home is something you want to avoid at all costs. Small sink leaks are often the first indicator of more significant sink issues. When left unattended, the problem can worsen, and you could be dealing with a flood. 

Water Waste

While a leaky sink might not seem like a big deal, those drops of water quickly add up to expensive water bills. It’s also good to keep in mind that water waste causes environmental damage. 

Why Sinks Leak

Sometimes you have to call a plumber to fix your leaky sink. However, being able to identify minor issues yourself can make the difference between a quick fix and a larger problem down the line. 

While there are endless reasons why your sink could be leaking, there are a few common culprits you can check. 

Drain leaks

Some common causes of leaks originating from the drain are old plumber’s putty or loose nuts. Often, these are quick fixes you can address yourself by checking if the connections are secure, but in cases requiring replacement parts or undiagnosed problems, you’ll want to call a plumber.

Loose water supply connections

A failed gasket or corrosion can cause a leak at a water supply connection point. You can often fix leaks caused by loose water supply connections with a quick hand-tighten. However, more severe water supply connection problems may require replacing your supply line.

A Clogged P-trap

A P-trap is a curved bit hidden under the sink that prevents smells from coming back up through the drain. Unfortunately, bits of food and debris can build up here, causing a leak. These leaks will not go away on their own, and the resulting flood of dirty water can wreak havoc on your home, so be sure to address it as soon as possible. 

Worn-out washers

Washers have a long lifespan but don’t last forever. The continued friction of the washer pushing against the valve seat every time you turn on the faucet wears them down. So if your faucet is dripping at the spout and you can’t remember the last time you replaced the washers, they are probably the culprit.

Early Detection of Faucet Leaks

The best way to avoid damage caused by leaky sinks is early detection. While it’s inevitable that a sink in your home will leak at some point, catching the problem early on can mean the difference between an easy fix and a complete home remodel. 

The good thing is that there are products that can identify leaks and prevent immediate damage, such as Killarney Metal’s Under Sink Drip Pan, Under Sink Rubber Mat, and Leak Alert Device.

Under Sink Drip Pan

An under-sink drip pan such as this one made from durable steel is perfect for protecting your home from damages caused by a leaky sink. Not only is it easier to spot pooling water that collects in these trays, but they also provide peace of mind that undetected leaks won’t damage your home or cabinetry before you’re alerted to the issue. 

Designed with longevity in mind, these under sink drip pans from Killarney Metals have fully welded corners and hemmed edges for extra strength. Available in stainless or galvanized steel, these trays can also be custom-designed to fit your specifications. 

Under Sink Rubber Mat

Another great solution for preventing damage caused by a leaky sink is an under-sink rubber mat. These rubber mats prevent water from sitting under your sink for long periods undetected by providing a protective layer between your pipes and cabinet base. Easy to install, these mats can be cut to fit in most kitchen or bathroom cabinets. 

Under-sink rubber mats from Killarney Metals are cleverly designed with rubber channels that keep items under your sink dry as water flows forward from the leak point. The mat also has a back lip that keeps water from flowing backward further into your cabinet. 

Leak Alert Device

The ultimate alert for a leaky sink, leak alert devices such as LAD™, can send a notification straight to your phone warning you of any water in your under sink pan. While a metal under sink drip pan is an essential first line of defense against damage caused by leaky sinks, Leak Alert Devices continuously monitor your system for the presence of water. 

After downloading the TuyaSmart app available in the Apple App Store and Google Play, simply plug in the device and rest in your drip pan. Then, if the device detects through its moisture detecting system, it will notify you via the app. It’s really that easy!

At Killarney Metals, our high-quality under sink trays and mats are made in the USA. Easy to clean and care for, these leak detection solutions will protect your cabinets and floors from water damage caused by sink leaks for years to come.