New sink install - leak issue

gwandsh · 2009-12-29T21:45:36+00:00

Hi allI recently installed a new bathroom vanity, sink and faucet. I amgetting a small leak at the point where the large nut tightens thedrain assembly onto the bottom of the sink, compressing the blackwasher onto the bottom of the sink drain.I have seen sink installs before, checked the net for hints, and evendid a couple quite some time ago. I double checked the sink/vanitythat was removed from the space, and also on line, so I know thewashers on the drain assembly are in the right order. The drainflange has a good ring of plumbers putty under it.The sink itself is an ornamental handpainted model, and may have someslight irregularities at the sink drain. Because the sink is somewhatmore delicate than the standard white porcelain models, I don't wantto risk overtightening the nut.So what I am hoping to get are pointers on what the plumber-savvyfolks would do to handle a leak on the underside of the sink drain?Can I add a thin bead of plumbers putty where the black washer meetsthe sink, in an attempt to fill any irregularities the washer can'thandle? I am reluctant to use silicone at that point, just in case itisn't successful and I have to dismantle it again.Thanks for any tips

Dec 29, 2009 Last reply: 5 years ago 20 Replies

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Hokie74 5 years ago

You do need to seal the underside and the top. The drain tube has slotted holes in it where the overflow drains back. If you don't get a seal on the underside water will leak through those slots and out around the cone washer. I just fought a drain leak like that when I installed a new faucet and drain. The new cone washer was too big to go up through the hole in the sink. I finally used the old cone washer and plumbers putty.

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