I get where you’re coming from—those kits have a pretty bad rep, especially for spots that see a lot of water. But I actually had a different experience with a hairline crack in my kitchen sink last year. Maybe it’s just luck, or maybe it’s about the prep work? Here’s what I did, step by step, in case it helps anyone else:
1. Cleaned the area with rubbing alcohol, then let it dry overnight. I think a lot of people skip the drying part, but moisture under the repair is a killer.
2. Used a two-part epoxy (not the single-tube stuff). Mixed it up right before applying, and really worked it into the crack with a toothpick.
3. Smoothed it out with a razor blade, then let it cure for a full 48 hours. Didn’t use the sink at all during that time, which was a pain.
4. After it cured, I sanded it lightly and put a waterproof sealant over the top.
It’s been about 14 months now, and it’s still holding up. Granted, this was a small crack, not a big one near the drain. I wouldn’t trust a kit for a major structural issue or a spot that’s constantly submerged, but for minor stuff, I think it can work if you’re really meticulous.
I do agree that most of the “miracle” kits are overhyped, and if you rush the process or don’t get everything bone dry, it’ll fail fast. But with the right prep and patience, it’s not always just a temporary patch. Maybe I just got lucky, but I’d say it’s worth a shot for small cracks if you’re willing to put in the effort. For anything bigger, though, I’d probably just call in a pro or replace the sink.
I wouldn’t trust a kit for a major structural issue or a spot that’s constantly submerged, but for minor stuff, I think it can work if you’re really meticulous.
Totally agree—prepping is everything. I’ve patched a bathroom sink with a similar method and it’s still solid after two years. Skipping the drying step is where most folks mess up. For bigger cracks, though, I’d rather not risk water damage or waste materials. Sometimes replacing is just less hassle in the long run.
For bigger cracks, though, I’d rather not risk water damage or waste materials. Sometimes replacing is just less hassle in the long run.
I hear you on "sometimes replacing is just less hassle in the long run," but man, the cost of a new sink plus install adds up quick. Has anyone tried those epoxy kits on hairline cracks right by the drain? I keep reading mixed reviews about how they hold up with all that water.
the cost of a new sink plus install adds up quick
Yeah, that’s the part that stings. I’ve used those epoxy kits on a couple of my rentals for tiny cracks near the drain. Honestly, it’s hit or miss. One held up for over a year, but another started leaking again after just a few months. If it’s just hairline and you prep it right, you might buy yourself some time, but I wouldn’t bet on it as a long-term fix. Sometimes feels like you’re just delaying the inevitable...
Sometimes feels like you’re just delaying the inevitable...
That’s pretty much my take too. Those epoxy kits are like putting a band-aid on a leaky pipe—sometimes it holds, sometimes you’re mopping up water a few months later. If it’s a rental and you just need to buy some time, sure, but for your own place? I’d be wary. Still, I get it—the price of a new sink plus install is no joke. Sometimes you just gotta pick your battles.
