When is it Time to Replace My Bathroom Sink?

Rusty pipes? Outdated design? Or maybe mold has appeared in your bathroom’s vanity area? These are all signs it might be time to replace your bathroom sink. 

The process is fairly simple and can yield a high ROI for homeowners who are considering selling. It’s also an easy way to upgrade a bathroom’s appearance and functionality. Still, maybe you want to keep your existing sink and are trying to figure out the gravity of the situation. We can help. Here’s what you need to know. 

What Are the Signs My Bathroom Sink is Damaged?

There are some telltale signs to keep in mind when it comes to evaluating if your bathroom sink could use replacing. 

They include: 

• Your vanity area is moldy: Mold appears when moisture from shower steam or water leaks is trapped. The only way to completely get rid of the mold is to replace the impacted fixture entirely.
• The pipes are rusted: Often, you’ll smell rust before seeing it. If your water seems tinged when using it or brushing your teeth, it may be a sign of rust and that your bathroom sink’s pipes should be replaced. 
• Dated design: Bathroom sink styles are constantly evolving. Depending on how long it has been since the fixture has been replaced, it might be time for an aesthetically pleasing update. 
• Non-functional space: If the space in your vanity area is messy or cluttered, it can be a sign that a bigger or more functional vanity might benefit your lifestyle 
• You’re selling your house soon: If your home is hitting the market any time soon, an updated vanity area is a highly regarded amenity. 

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Bathroom Sink Damage: Repair or Replace? 

Not every bit of bathroom sink damage requires a total overhaul. A drippy faucet or a chip in the porcelain is no reason to replace the whole unit. But there are situations where a repair could end up being more difficult than opting for a new sink entirely. 

Leaky faucets and clogged drains, for instance, are common repairs that don’t warrant a total sink replacement. However, in a situation where your valve seat — the piece between your faucet and spout — is corroded and has been repaired several times before, it would be more efficient to replace your sink altogether. In fact, any time you have repaired a recurring issue with your sink several times, it’s a sign to evaluate how much those repairs are costing versus a full replacement. 

Here are some examples of what would warrant a bathroom sink repair versus a bathroom sink replacement:

What Are the Benefits if I Replace My Bathroom Sink? 

Replacing your bathroom sink is a great way to give your bathroom new life and personality. Besides updating your bathroom’s physical appearance, it can also add new functionality. 

If your bathroom is lacking storage options, a full new sink and vanity is a great way to introduce new cabinetry. Separately, in smaller bathrooms that lack space for a full vanity, options like wall-mounted or pedestal sinks can help add breathing room. 

It may not be cost-effective to replace your bathroom sink at the first sign of trouble. Often, a random leak is just that — random — and can be efficiently put to rest with a quick repair. But if the leaks and issues are recurring or damage is extensive, it may be more practical to replace your sink entirely. And in the grand scheme of bathroom renovations, installing a bathroom sink may be one of the more affordable home improvement projects. 

Once you know it’s time to replace your bathroom sink, your next step is to hire a contractor to put things into motion. 

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