Leaky Faucet or Old Sink? How to Find the Real Culprit

Start by observing where the water collects. If you notice drips coming directly from the faucet spout, handle, or base, the faucet is likely the problem. Worn washers, faulty cartridges, or loose connections often cause these issues, and a repair or replacement faucet usually solves it. However, if water is pooling underneath the sink or seeping along the countertop edges, it could point to a bigger issue with the sink basin or the seal between the sink and countertop.

Next, inspect the sink basin itself. Stainless steel sinks can develop rust or corrosion over time, while porcelain or composite sinks may crack or chip. Even hairline cracks can allow water to escape slowly, creating hidden leaks that damage cabinets below. If you find staining, bubbling, or rust spots around the drain or along seams, the sink may be deteriorating beyond repair.

Don’t overlook the sink’s mounting and sealant. Undermount sinks, in particular, rely on a watertight silicone seal between the countertop and sink edge. If this seal is damaged, water can seep into the countertop, leading to what’s often called “countertop cancer”—swelling, staining, and long-term structural issues. In these cases, resealing might help, but a poorly fitted or aging sink may require full replacement.

Sometimes, it’s a combination of both faucet and sink issues. A wobbly faucet can stress the sink deck, causing cracks or loosening the seal. Meanwhile, an old, worn-out sink may not hold new faucet hardware securely. If you’re constantly dealing with recurring leaks, it might be time to replace both at once.

At I Hate My Sink, we help homeowners uncover the real source of their sink frustrations. Whether it’s a simple faucet swap or a full sink replacement, addressing the right culprit ensures a lasting solution. The key is not ignoring the signs—because small leaks have a way of becoming big problems when left untreated.

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