How do you treat water damage under kitchen sink?

Author: Berniece Rowe  |  Last update: Monday, January 5, 2026

Here's what you can do:
  1. Identify the Source: Determine the source of the water damage, whether it's a leaky pipe, faulty seal, or condensation buildup.
  2. Repair Leaks: Fix any leaks or damaged pipes immediately. ...
  3. Dry the Area: Use towels or a wet-dry vacuum to remove standing water and moisture from under the sink.

How do you fix water damaged particle board under a sink?

You will need to carefully peel the laminate back the entire length of the seam to where it can be raised enough to gouge out the raised particle board. Once enough material is removed that the laminate will lay down level with the adjoining seam you will need to inject a mastic back under the affected area.

How much does it cost to fix a leak under a kitchen sink?

Fixing a leak on a drain line by your sink or shower due to a clog or damaged PVC pipe costs $150, whereas a severe clog can increase repair costs to $300. The cost of repairing your sewer line is higher and runs from $1,250 to $4,700.

How to remove moisture under a kitchen sink?

Air circulation is what will dry it out, get a box fan and turn your ac on as low as you can (ac works by removing the humidity from the air). Dry to pull as much water out from under your sink using towels or a wet shop vac. Leak could be coming from your garbage disposal as the will come lose over time.

How to fix a water leak under a sink?

Turn off the water supply, remove the drain assembly, and replace the rubber washer with a new one. Seal with Plumber's Putty: If the leak persists, apply plumber's putty around the drain flange before reassembling. Tighten the Connection: Check the connection where the flexible hose meets the supply line or faucet.

Water Damaged Cabinet - Repair & Prevent

How do you treat water damage under a sink?

Repair Leaks: Fix any leaks or damaged pipes immediately. Replace worn-out seals or connections to prevent future leaks. Dry the Area: Use towels or a wet-dry vacuum to remove standing water and moisture from under the sink. Dry Out the Kitchen Cabinet: Allow the cabinet area under the sink to thoroughly dry out.

What would mend a leak under a kitchen sink?

You can fix the problem by simply tightening the nuts located at the point where the pipes meet. Otherwise you can use plumber's putty to get the job done. You can remove the drain, repack it with fresh plumber's putty, and then reattach the drain again.

What should I put under my kitchen sink to seal it?

For sealing a kitchen sink, or anywhere water could be present, choose a GE-branded 100% silicone sealant, like GE Tub & Tile Silicone 1® sealant. This sealant is 100% waterproof, permanently flexible and has 7-year mold-free product protection,1 so you can create a lasting, mold-resistant and watertight seal.

How much does it cost to replace an under sink cabinet floor?

Replacing a sink base cabinet floor costs $150 to $200 on average, inclusive of labor and materials.

Will swollen particle board shrink?

A board which has been allowed past the elastic limit will however shrink like a normal board of similar length and moisture content, which means that the restrained expansion will appear on drying as a real shrinkage and consequently result in a gap.

Is a leak under the sink an emergency?

Leaks aren't always a major issue. For example, if you have a small leak under your sink or a drippy showerhead, you can simply avoid using the fixture until your plumber arrives. Unfortunately, big leaks can cause big problems. If the water reaches electrical wiring, it becomes a fire hazard.

How much to replace pipes under a kitchen sink?

Kitchen drain pipes usually cost between $100 and $500 to replace. If you just need to repair or replace your kitchen sink drain, then you'll likely pay at the lower end of that spectrum.

Does homeowners insurance cover slab leak repair?

If a peril that's covered by your homeowners insurance policy results in a plumbing leak under your slab creating a slab leak, your homeowners insurance policy might help pay to tear out and replace the slab and repair the water damage to your home.

How to get rid of mold under sink particle board?

Combine one part baking soda with two parts warm water to form a paste. Use a sponge or cloth to apply the baking soda paste to the mold-infested areas under your sink. Scrub gently, ensuring you cover all the affected surfaces. The baking soda will help break down and remove the mold.

How long does it take for particle board to dry out?

Before attempting any repairs, ensure that the particle board is completely dry. You can speed up the drying process by using dehumidifiers, fans, or even a hairdryer. Be patient, as this can take several hours to days, depending on the extent of the moisture.

How to waterproof under a kitchen sink?

Applying a sealant helps prevent water damage under your kitchen sink and cabinets. In addition, it will help preserve the elegant look of your cabinetry. To seal them properly, sand and prime your cabinets first. Then apply a food-grade varnish that is made for kitchens.

What is the thing under the kitchen sink called?

Trap: A P-trap is a two-part pipe under your sink that allows waste and water to pass through. The bend in the pipe prevents sewer gasses from entering. Today, most models are two pieces joined together. Older P-trap systems may be glued in place and should be replaced with an updated two-piece system.

How much does it cost to replace a valve under the sink?

The cost to replace a ball valve is typically between $200 and $500. This depends on the ball valve manufacturer, brand, model, and whether it is installed. This estimate includes labor costs, material costs, and other miscellaneous expenses.

Can you replace just the bottom of a kitchen cabinet?

If you're talking about the bottom face plate, the kick panel, you can either cover the damaged area with trim or pry it off and replace it with another board that you then paint flat black or to match the cabinet. That flexible base trim that comes in rolls will easily cover up minor damage.

Can I use Flex seal under my sink?

A: Flex Caulk is a hybrid polymer caulk, while Flex Shot is a thick siliconized rubber sealant. Both can be used around your sink, countertops, shower, and bathtub.

What can I put under my sink to prevent water damage?

Add an Under-Sink Mat or Tray

Most mats are rubber so even if they get wet, the water won't saturate through to your sink or kitchen cabinetry and wreck the wood. Most under-sink mats have grooves throughout that can hold water to contain a leak. Some mats are even capable of retaining several gallons of water.

What is better, plumbers putty or silicone?

The main difference between plumbers putty or silicone for sink drain is how easy the substances are to manipulate or remove. Plumbers putty is very easy to manipulate into tight areas, and it's also easier to remove. That makes silicone putty better for waterproofing, even if it's more difficult to work with.

How do I fix water under my sink?

Start repairs by tightening the pipe slip nuts, beginning with the one nearest the sink. If the pipe still leaks, try sealing around the slip nuts with epoxy putty or silicone tape. Stubborn leaks may require replacing the pipe's rubber gaskets.

How much does it cost to fix a leak under the sink?

You could spend as little as $100 repairing a minor P-trap leak or as much as $4,000 repairing burst pipes. Water cleanup ranges from about $4 to $7 per square foot. This guide will go over bathroom leak repair costs—whether the issue is under your sink or behind your toilet.

What can I use to seal a leak under the sink?

1 choice – epoxy putty. By far the best way to fix a pipe is with Loctite Repair Putty-All Purpose. This waterproof repair putty is compatible with all plumbing materials and can be applied to wet surfaces. You can mold it to fill any crack, plus it dries quickly making it ideal for quick fixes.

Previous article
How do you get the sick smell out of sheets?
Next article
What do Southerners call the toilet?