Can’t argue with the “water’s sneaky” bit—nothing like thinking you’ve caught a minor drip, then pulling out warped particleboard a month later. I’m always amazed at how fast a small leak can escalate, especially if you’ve got those older cabinets that seem to absorb moisture like a sponge. In my last place, what started as a $10 gasket replacement turned into a $600 ordeal after I realized the bottom of the cabinet was basically mush. Ended up having to cut out the rotten wood and patch in new plywood before I could even think about swapping out the sink.
One thing I’d add: sometimes people focus on the visible damage, but don’t check for hidden mold or soft spots behind the cabinet or along the wall. I’ve seen folks replace just the sink and leave the cabinet untouched, only to have that musty smell linger for months. If you’re already tearing things apart, it’s worth poking around with a screwdriver to see how far the water went.
As far as costs go, I think it really depends on how “all-in” you want to go. A basic drop-in sink and faucet swap can be pretty reasonable if you do it yourself and nothing else is damaged. But once you factor in new plumbing lines (those old flexible hoses are notorious for failing), maybe an upgraded faucet, and any repairs to cabinetry, it adds up fast. Not to mention if you get tempted by those fancy undermount sinks or composite materials... suddenly you’re in four-figure territory.
I do question whether some of these “quick fixes” people do are even worth it in the long run. Duct tape under a sink always makes me nervous—feels like asking for trouble down the road. A bucket is one thing, but anything sticky or gooey just seems like it’ll make a mess later.
In my experience, catching things early is key. Even if you can’t fix it right away, at least get everything dry and keep an eye out for signs of damage spreading. Otherwise, that midnight leak turns into a weekend lost to demo and repair—and probably more money than you planned to spend.
Duct tape under a sink always makes me nervous—feels like asking for trouble down the road.
Couldn’t agree more. Duct tape is for holding together car bumpers and Halloween costumes, not plumbing. I’ve seen more “temporary” duct tape fixes turn into science experiments under sinks than I care to admit. One time, someone tried to seal a leak with chewing gum and electrical tape... let’s just say it didn’t end well for their cabinet or their shoes.
You nailed it about those flexible hoses too. They’re like ticking time bombs—look fine until one day you’re ankle-deep in water, wondering why you ever trusted a $5 part with your kitchen’s fate.
I always tell folks: if you’re already in there, poke around everywhere. Water loves to travel, and it’ll find the one spot you didn’t check. And yeah, those “quick fixes” usually just buy you time to save up for the real repair (or to brace yourself for the bill). Sometimes spending a little more up front saves a lot of headaches—and warped cabinets—down the line.
Duct tape and chewing gum—now that’s a combo I haven’t seen since my apprentice days. Honestly, I’ve lost count of how many “temporary” fixes ended up costing folks double in the long run. Ever notice how leaks always seem to show up at the worst possible time, too? I get why people want to save a buck, but sometimes it’s just not worth the gamble. Curious—did anyone here actually have a flexible hose burst, or is it just me who’s seen those things go off like a sprinkler under the sink?
Had a flexible hose burst under my sink about two years ago—caught it early, but it still soaked the cabinet. I’d replaced the faucet myself a few months before and thought the hoses looked fine, but I guess age caught up with them. Ended up spending around $80 for new braided hoses and a shutoff valve. In hindsight, I probably should’ve just swapped the hoses when I did the faucet. Anyone else think it’s worth paying extra for the stainless braided ones, or is that just marketing?
Honestly, I’m with you—wish I’d swapped mine out sooner too. Those old rubber hoses just don’t inspire much confidence, especially after a few years. I was skeptical about the stainless braided ones at first (seems like everything’s “premium” these days), but after seeing a neighbor’s kitchen flood from a split hose, I figured the extra $10-15 was worth it for peace of mind. Not saying they’re indestructible, but they do seem sturdier. Still, I kinda hate how plumbing always ends up costing more than you expect...
