That’s been my experience too—patches just don’t hold up, especially around the drain where there’s constant movement and moisture. Even the best kits are really just a temporary fix at best. I’ve seen a few folks try fiberglass cloth with marine-grade epoxy, but even then, it’s hit or miss. Out of curiosity, was your sink porcelain, composite, or stainless? Some materials seem to flex more than others, which makes a difference.
I actually had a different experience with marine-grade epoxy on a composite sink—held up for over two years now, even around the drain. Maybe I just got lucky, or maybe it’s the way the composite flexes less than stainless? I do think prep makes a huge difference. If there’s any residue or moisture left, nothing’s gonna stick for long. Still, I get that most patches are just buying time... but sometimes that’s all you need before a full replacement.
I’ve noticed the same thing with composite sinks—they just don’t seem to flex as much, and that probably helps the epoxy hold. I tried a patch on a stainless sink once, and it failed pretty fast, even though I thought I’d prepped well. Maybe the vibration or temp changes did it in. Prep’s definitely key, but I also wonder if some of these kits just aren’t meant for heavy use areas like drains. Still, if you can get a couple years out of a patch, that’s not bad at all compared to the cost and hassle of swapping out a whole sink.
Prep’s definitely key, but I also wonder if some of these kits just aren’t meant for heavy use areas like drains.
I had a similar experience with a stainless sink—prepped it like crazy, roughed up the surface, cleaned it with acetone, the whole nine yards. Still, the patch started peeling after a few months. I think you’re right about the flex and temp swings being the culprit. Composite sinks seem to hold up better for sure. I’m starting to think some of these kits just aren’t up for the job in spots that get constant water and movement. If you can squeeze a year or two out of a patch, that’s probably as good as it gets unless you want to go all-in and replace the whole thing.
If you can squeeze a year or two out of a patch, that’s probably as good as it gets unless you want to go all-in and replace the whole thing.
Honestly, I’ve seen way too many of these “miracle” repair kits fail in high-traffic spots. Doesn’t matter how meticulous you are with prep—water, heat, and daily use just break them down. I patched a cast iron sink for a buddy once, followed every step to the letter, and it still started bubbling up after six months. Sometimes it’s just throwing good money after bad. If the crack’s near the drain or gets hit with hot pans, replacement’s usually the only real fix.
