How to Fix a Sink That Leaks Under the Faucet

Leaky gaskets cause water seepage at the faucet base.

Kitchen and bathroom sink faucets not sealed properly at their base provide a path for water leakage. As water accumulates on the sink top and back-splash, seepage develops beneath the faucet, and "telegraphs" along drain pipes and water supply lines until the droplets collectively begin to drip. There are two ways to eliminate the leak. One involves the removal and re-sealing of the faucet gasket, and the other is to surround the faucet base with caulk.

Things You'll Need

• Adjustable wrench
• Basin wrench
• Steel wool
• Paper towels
• Plumber's putty
• Scissors
• Tub and tile caulk

Instructions

Re-Sealing the Faucet Gasket

1. Turn off the water supply to the leaking sink faucet. Open the faucet to relieve residual pressure.

2. Disconnect the hot and cold water supply lines to the faucet with an adjustable wrench. If the faucet has a spray nozzle feature, disconnect its hose fitting. Turn the connection fittings counterclockwise.

3. Remove the faucet retaining nuts using a basin wrench. Turn the nuts counterclockwise.

4. Lift the faucet out from the sink.

5. Clean the sink top with steel wool and scouring powder to remove sediment and other particles. Dry with paper towels.

6. Apply a thin bead of plumber's putty in a ring around each of the sink holes and the perimeter of the faucet gasket. Knead the putty by hand ensuring the putty has no open seam.

7. Replace the faucet in the sink and tighten the retaining nuts with the basin wrench.

8. Connect the sprayer hose, the hot water and the cold water fittings to their respective connections using the adjustable wrench. Tighten the fittings clockwise.

9. Restore the water supply to the sink and leak check.

Sealing the Faucet With Caulk

1. Clean the area where the faucet base meets the sink top with steel wool and scouring powder. Be sure to remove all sediment and moisture from around the perimeter of the base. Dry with paper towels.

2. Cut the nozzle of the tub and tile caulk tube with scissors at the recommended distance for the width of application bead.

3. Apply an even amount of caulk at the base of the faucet and the sink. Smooth the caulk with your finger to ensure an equal and continuous bead around the faucet.

4. Allow the caulk to set and cure according to the manufacturer's instructions.

References

• DIY Building and Repairs: How to Repair Kitchen Faucet Leak
• Lowe's Creative Ideas: How to Replace a Kitchen Faucet