Repairing a Sink: Everything You Need to Know
The average cost to repair a sink in the UK is around £80 to £150, depending on the issue and type of sink. Additional factors, such as location, materials, and plumber rates, can also influence the overall cost.
In This Article
- Average Costs of Sink Repairs
- Types of Sinks and Repair Considerations
- Labour Costs by Region
- Additional Costs to Consider
- FAQs
How Much Does Sink Repair Cost?
The total cost of repairing a sink depends on the type of issue, such as fixing a leaking pipe, replacing a damaged tap, or unblocking a drain. Below is a cost breakdown of common sink repair tasks:
| Repair Task | Average Cost (Labour + Materials) |
|---|---|
| Fixing a leaking pipe | £80 – £120 |
| Unblocking a clogged sink | £60 – £100 |
| Replacing a tap or mixer unit | £100 – £180 |
| Resealing a sink | £50 – £100 |
| Fixing a cracked ceramic sink | £120 – £250 |
Types of Sinks and Repair Considerations
The type of sink you have can influence repair costs:
1. Stainless Steel Sinks
- Pros: Affordable, durable, easy to clean.
- Cons: Prone to dents and scratches.
- Repair Costs: Generally lower, with simple fixes like tap replacements costing around £100–£150.
2. Ceramic Sinks
- Pros: Stylish, traditional aesthetic.
- Cons: Vulnerable to chipping and cracking.
- Repair Costs: Repairs for cracks or chips range from £120–£250, depending on the severity.
3. Composite Sinks
- Pros: Highly durable, modern appearance.
- Cons: Susceptible to stains and surface damage.
- Repair Costs: Stain removal or refinishing can cost £80–£200.
4. Undermount Sinks
- Pros: Sleek and seamless look.
- Cons: Difficult installation and resealing.
- Repair Costs: Resealing an undermount sink can cost £100–£150.
Labour Costs by Region
Where you live in the UK can significantly impact repair costs. Here’s a regional breakdown:
| Location | Hourly Labour Rate |
|---|---|
| London & South East | £50 – £80 |
| Midlands | £40 – £60 |
| North West | £35 – £50 |
| Scotland & Wales | £30 – £45 |
Additional Costs to Consider
1. Call-Out Fees
Some plumbers charge a call-out fee, which ranges from £50 to £100, particularly for emergency repairs.
2. Material Costs
The cost of replacement parts, such as taps or pipes, can vary:
- Standard mixer tap: £30–£70
- Premium designer tap: £100–£200
- Replacement sink waste kit: £10–£30
3. Waste Disposal
If a sink or parts need removal, waste disposal might add £20–£50.
4. Scaffolding or Special Access
For sinks in tricky locations, like utility rooms or outdoor areas, scaffolding may be necessary, costing up to £300.
FAQs
Q: Can I repair a sink myself?
A: Simple tasks like resealing or unblocking a sink are manageable for confident DIYers. However, issues involving plumbing systems or cracked ceramics are best left to professionals.
Q: Are emergency repairs more expensive?
A: Yes, emergency call-outs can cost an additional £50–£100 on top of standard rates.
Q: How long does a sink repair take?
A: Most repairs are completed in 1–3 hours. Complex issues, like replacing pipework, may take longer.
Q: Should I replace my sink instead of repairing it?
A: If repair costs exceed 50% of the replacement cost, upgrading to a new sink may be more cost-effective.
Q: What’s the cost of installing a new sink?
A: Installing a new sink typically costs between £150 and £400, including labour and materials.
Ready to Fix Your Sink?
For professional repairs, consider obtaining quotes from local tradespeople. Websites like Checkatrade and Rated Peoplecan help you compare prices and find reputable plumbers in your area.
