Tried the fiberglass mesh trick a couple times, especially on older porcelain sinks where I just couldn’t justify a full replacement yet. It does help distribute the pressure, but you’re right—around the drain, it’s just a tough spot. Water and daily use seem to break down even the best patch jobs over time. I’ve noticed if you really rough up the area, clean it with acetone, and use a two-part marine epoxy with mesh, you might squeeze out another year or two. Still, it’s not the prettiest fix... Kind of feels like putting a band-aid on a leaky dam.
Yeah, patching around the drain is like trying to keep a toddler out of mud—never really works for long. I’ve tried every “miracle” kit out there, but renters seem to find new ways to stress test my repairs. Ever try just swapping in a cheap drop-in sink? Sometimes it’s less hassle than playing epoxy roulette...
Ever try just swapping in a cheap drop-in sink? Sometimes it’s less hassle than playing epoxy roulette...
Honestly, I’ve gone down the epoxy route more times than I care to admit, and it’s always a gamble. Swapping in a drop-in sink does seem more straightforward, especially if you’re dealing with recurring issues. Did you have to modify the countertop at all, or did the new sink fit right in? I’ve run into situations where the cutout wasn’t quite standard, which turned a “quick” swap into a half-day project. Curious if you ran into any surprises with plumbing alignment or countertop fit.
Did you have to modify the countertop at all, or did the new sink fit right in? I’ve run into situations where the cutout wasn’t quite standard, which turned a “quick” swap into a half-day project.
That’s the kicker—those “standard” cutouts are rarely as standard as you’d hope. I’ve seen more than a few so-called drop-ins that needed some creative trimming or shimming to get them to sit flush. Plumbing alignment’s another wildcard, especially if your old sink was a different depth. Still, even with a bit of countertop work, it’s usually less headache than hoping epoxy holds up. You’re not alone—quick fixes almost always turn into mini-renovations in my experience. Stick with it, though… once it’s in, you’ll be glad you ditched the patch jobs.
“quick fixes almost always turn into mini-renovations in my experience”
Couldn’t agree more. Last time I swapped a sink, I thought I’d be done before lunch. Nope. The old cutout was just a hair too small for the new basin, so I’m there with the jigsaw, trying not to chip the laminate. Ended up making a mess anyway, and then had to mess with the drain height because the new sink was deeper. Honestly, those DIY crack repair kits look tempting, but I don’t trust them for anything that gets daily use. Maybe for a rental or something you barely touch, but in my own kitchen? Nah.
I get why people want a quick fix, but once you start fiddling with the countertop, you realize it’s just better to do it right. At least then you’re not worried about leaks or the patch giving out when you least expect it.
