Kitchen Plumbing Problems? Here's What It Costs To Replace Those Leaky Pipes

Is your kitchen sink a constant source of drips and leaks? Do you cringe every time you turn on the faucet, wondering if it will actually work or leave you with a puddle on the floor? If so, it may be time to replace those faulty pipes under the sink causing all the problems.

Replacing worn out or leaky pipes is one of the most common kitchen plumbing jobs.

Average Cost to Replace Kitchen Sink Pipes

The typical price range to replace the pipes under a kitchen sink is $300 to $1,000. This includes costs for materials like p-traps, supply lines, pipe fittings and labor if you hire a plumber.

Several factors impact the total sink pipe replacement cost:

• Type of new sink being installed - More complex sinks like undermount or apron-front increase labor time
• Accessibility to the plumbing - Tight under-sink spaces or re-routing lines cost more
• DIY vs hiring a pro - Plumbers charge $50-$100 per hour for installations
• Your location - Labor rates vary across the country

Removing the Old Sink

Before installing the new sink, the first step is taking apart the old one. Here is an overview of the sink removal process:

1. Turn off shut off valves and drain the supply lines
2. Disconnect and remove the supply lines from the faucet and valves
3. Uninstall the basket strainers, p-trap and drain fittings
4. Disconnect and remove the sink, faucet and garbage disposal if present

Removing an old sink takes time and care, especially if corrosion is present. Expect to spend 1-3 hours dismantling an average kitchen sink.

Installing the New Sink

Once the old sink is removed, it's time for the new installation. Follow these steps:

1. Make cutout in countertop for new sink basin
2. Set sink in place, seal edges with caulk or adhesive if needed
3. Re-assemble the drain pipes - p-trap, waste tee, trap arm
4. Connect drain to garbage disposal if applicable
5. Attach flexible supply lines to faucet and angle stops
6. Test for leaks and make any final connections

Installing a new sink takes 2-4 hours typically. The key is making watertight slip joint connections and securing supply lines.

Cost of Plumbing Materials

Here are rough costs for common parts used when replacing kitchen sink pipes:

• Basket strainers - $10-$30
• P-trap assembly - $10-$20
• Flexible supply lines - $5-$10 each
• Angle stops - $5-$15
• Trap arm sections - $5-$10
• Slip joint connections - $2-$5 each
• Teflon tape - $5

Having the right materials on hand is key for a smooth install. Expect to spend $50-$100 on supplies.

Labor Cost for Installation

For professional installation, plumber rates typically run $50-$100 per hour. It takes 2-6 hours for a complete kitchen sink drain and supply line replacement. At $75 per hour, you would pay $150-$450 for labor.

For a DIY replacement, plan on 4-8 hours depending on experience. Having an extra set of hands helps speed up the process.

Cost to Move Plumbing Lines

If you need to relocate the sink to a different part of the counter, costs go up. Plumbing line re-routing ranges from $500 to $2,000. The accessibility of the lines and number of changes needed impact the price.

Increase Value by Upgrading Faucet and Disposal

While your sink is disassembled, consider upgrading components for better function and increased home value:

• Higher end faucet - $100-$500 depending on finishes and features
• Quieter garbage disposal - $100-$250 for a powerful, insulated model

Upgrades like these improve the kitchen's aesthetics and usefulness for years to come.

Replacing worn out kitchen sink pipes restores full water flow and eliminates pesky leaks. For this common kitchen plumbing job, expect to spend $300 to $1,000 based the project scope. Follow proper slip joint assembly and secure all connections to prevent future leakage.