Water Damage Under the Bathroom Sink: Why Does It Happen and How to Prevent It?

When you think of major water damage Greenville homes may experience, you might picture floods or broken pipes, even though one of the most overlooked sources is right in your bathroom – your sink. But what causes water damage under the bathroom sink? Bathroom sinks see daily use, and over time, even small issues like slow leaks or clogs can lead to serious water damage. If you ignore them long enough, these problems can devastate your floors, cabinets, your home’s structure, and even cause ceiling water damage if you live in a multi-level home.

Here’s what you need to know about bathroom sinks and water damage, common signs of early problems, and how to keep your sink in good shape.

Common Issues That Lead to Water Damage under the Bathroom Sink

Bathroom sinks may seem harmless, but they’re one of the most frequent sources of hidden leaks in a home. Here are some of the most common causes:

Leaky Faucets

A faucet that constantly drips can waste gallons of water over time. Even worse, the dripping may not just stay in the sink. If the faucet base is leaking, water can run beneath the sink and into cabinets or the wall behind.

Worn or Broken Seals

The seals around the faucet and drain are meant to keep water where it belongs. But with age and frequent use, these seals can crack or shift, allowing water to escape every time you open the faucet.

Clogged Drains

Another thing to consider is hair, soap, and debris that can build up in your sink drain. A clogged or slow-draining sink can eventually overflow, especially if left running unattended. In some cases, clogs also cause pressure in pipes that can lead to leaks at joints.

Loose or Cracked Pipes

The pipes underneath the sink, especially the drain trap, can loosen over time. A cracked or unsealed pipe joint may drip slowly for weeks before the problem becomes visible.

Signs Your Bathroom Sink Needs Fixing

Not sure if your sink is causing trouble? Here are the most typical signs that point to water damage under the sink:

• Standing water inside the vanity or cabinets
• Musty odors around the sink area
• Water stains on the bottom of the cabinet or surrounding walls
• Mold growth under or around the sink
• Peeling paint or bubbling drywall nearby
• Slow drainage that persists after using a drain cleaner
• Discolored caulking or signs of mildew around the base of the sink

Maintenance Tips to Keep Water Damage Away From Your Bathroom Sink

Preventing bathroom water damage starts with simple maintenance. Here are some ways to keep things in working order:

1. Inspect under the sink monthly for leaks or moisture
2. Tighten pipe connections if you notice any looseness
3. Replace worn seals and caulk around the sink and faucet
4. Avoid harsh chemicals – use enzyme-based cleaners for clogs
5. Keep the drain clear of hair and buildup using a mesh strainer
6. Dry the area after use to prevent mildew and caulk damage
7. Call a plumber for persistent clogs or signs of water under the cabinet

Routine checks only take a few minutes but can save you a lot of money and reduce the cost to fix water damage down the line.

How PuroClean of Greenville Can Help

If your bathroom sink has already caused water damage, or if you’re unsure of the extent, PuroClean of Greenville is here to help. Our trained professionals specialize in:

• Detecting moisture using advanced equipment
• Drying and dehumidifying wet cabinets, floors, and drywall
• Mold prevention and remediation
• Water damage restoration with fast response times
• Full cleanup and sanitization to restore your bathroom safely

Whether it’s a recent incident or a long-term leak that finally surfaced, our team knows how to handle it properly and restore your home quickly and professionally.

Call PuroClean of Greenville Today for Expert Water Damage Help!

Don’t let a small bathroom sink issue turn into a major problem. If you’re dealing with water under the sink, strange odors, or damage around your bathroom, call PuroClean of Greenville at (864) 528-2138, or fill out this online form for a free quote. We’ll arrive quickly to assess the situation and create a plan to fix it before it gets worse!