Get matched with top sink repair pros in Millbrae, CA

The average cost to hire a plumber is typically between $45 and $200 per hour, with a common average rate around $125 per hour. This cost can vary based on your location, the plumber's experience, and the complexity of the job. Rates are often broken down by experience level: an apprentice may charge $45 to $90 an hour, a journeyman $60 to $110 an hour, and a master plumber $80 to $200 an hour. While hourly rates are standard, some plumbers may charge a flat fee for routine projects or offer project-based pricing. It's also common for plumbers to charge a minimum service or trip fee. For reference, some typical flat-rate costs for common jobs include: drain unclogging ($220), leaky faucet repair ($270), burst pipe repair ($400), toilet repair ($300), and water heater repair ($600). Note that these rates are for standard service hours; emergency, holiday, and after-hours calls will cost significantly more.

Yes, drain stoppers do come out. In some cases, you can twist them counterclockwise to remove them. You can lift some drain stoppers halfway to the raised position and unscrew them. For others, you will need to lift the drain stopper to the raised position and unscrew the stopper from the stem underneath the top of the stopper.

Deteriorated seals, O-rings, or gaskets are common culprits behind a leaky sink after you’ve turned off the water—especially if your sink is older than 15 years. Inspect each of these mechanisms in your sink for signs of corrosion or looseness, then replace the worn-out part to fix it. Older sinks may be worth replacing if several of the parts are worn-out.

Yes, it is often possible to replace an undermount sink without removing the countertop, but success can depend on the countertop material. For materials like granite, the process is relatively straightforward. However, laminate or uniquely shaped countertops might need to be removed or modified.

The process typically involves shutting off the water supply, disconnecting the drain and plumbing pipes, cutting through the old silicone seal, and carefully lowering the sink from below. This requires a good understanding of plumbing and the right tools. If you are not confident in performing the replacement yourself, it is recommended to hire a countertop specialist or a plumber to handle the task.