How to seal the U-bend under the sink: questions and answers

Breakdowns happen in every home, and one of the most common is a leaky trap under the sink. Leaks can cause serious damage, so it’s worth knowing how to prevent such situations and how to seal the drain quickly and effectively when they do occur. In this article, we present answers to the most frequently asked questions about sealing pipes and traps.

What are the signs that the trap under the sink needs sealing or unblocking?

The signs of a leaky trap under the sink are usually easy to spot. The most obvious is a leak, which typically appears in the cabinet under the basin or on the floor. A sign of a blockage is a characteristic unpleasant odour coming from the drain. It’s also worth checking whether, after using the tap, the water drains too slowly – this usually indicates a partially blocked trap which can subsequently lead to leakage.

What are the most common causes of leaks under the sink?

The most common cause of leaks under the sink is damage to seals and joints. Seals wear out over time, and the connections between trap components can loosen. Another cause can be dirt build-up, which leads to blockages and excessive pressure in the drain, resulting in damage to the plumbing and water escaping.

Can leaks under the sink be prevented?

First and foremost, regularly inspect the basin trap and carry out maintenance when needed. It’s also worth using specialist chemical products that help remove accumulated grime and dissolve it effectively. Let’s also remember not to pour substances harmful to pipes down the sink, such as heavy oils or solvents.

How to seal a leaking threaded joint without dismantling? – sealing a trap with silicone

If you’re dealing with a leaking threaded joint on the trap and don’t want to dismantle it, you can use a simple trick – seal it with silicone. Apply a small amount of product to the dried leak area and wait for it to cure. It’s worth checking a few times that the compound has bonded. Moreover, plan a proper repair in the near future so the problem doesn’t recur or worsen.

Replacing the seal under the sink – how to fit seals to a trap?

1. To replace this part, first unscrew the trap collar and remove the old seal.
2. Then thoroughly clean the surfaces the new replacement will sit against. It is important to remove all remnants of the old seal.
3. Next, fit the new seal. Make sure it is well matched to the shape of the trap and properly seated.
4. After fitting the new seal, refit the trap collar and carefully tighten the joints.
5. Then turn on the water and check that the trap operates correctly, there are no leaks, and water flows freely from the sink.

Replacing the seal under the sink is not a complicated task, but it requires precision and care to avoid more serious problems with the plumbing.

What should you use to lubricate seals in PVC pipes?

For maintaining seals in PVC pipes, it is best to use specialist products designed for this purpose, available from plumbing suppliers. These agents are formulated specifically for lubricating rubber components in pipes and provide protection against drying out and ageing of the sealing parts. An evenly applied layer of lubricant reduces friction, extending the component’s service life.

How to seal a water pipe ‘in a hurry’?

If a leak appears in your home plumbing, you mustn’t ignore it. Even a small fault can cause serious damage in the home. Therefore, while waiting for a plumber, it’s worth stemming the leak using temporary solutions such as sealing tapes, silicone, or pipe sealing compounds. These products are easy to use and available in hardware and plumbing supply shops

By knowing the most common causes of leaks under the sink and how to prevent them, you can avoid unnecessary costs associated with repairing and restoring the damage. Remember that regular maintenance and inspection of the trap under the sink are key to preventing potential failures. However, if you encounter problems, do not hesitate to use the advice contained in this article or seek help from a professional to resolve them quickly and effectively.