Kitchen sinks don't necessarily last forever. Eventually, you will need to replace or repair your sink for one of the reasons below. This is a task best handled by a plumber since they will be able to fix any issues or properly hook up the new plumbing to the freshly installed sink.

1. Chips and Cracks

Porcelain and enamel sinks have enjoyed a timeless popularity, due to their attractive and easy-to-clean finish. Although durable, these sinks aren't immune to damage. Over time, even the most sturdy farmhouse-style porcelain sink will get a chip or a crack in its finish. Old sinks may even develop a web of small fractures over the surface. Not only are these damages unattractive, but they can also pose a sanitation problem. Bacteria can hide in the chips and cracks, making it difficult to fully clean the sink.

2. Rust and Dents

Metal sinks are also prone to certain types of damages, namely dents. Usually, dents are little more than an aesthetic concern, unless the metal is creased or the stainless surface is damaged. If either of these issues occurs, then rust can appear. Over time, the rust will eat away at the metal until a leak occurs in the sink. If your sink is dented, you don't need to replace it right away, but you should monitor it to make sure the damage doesn't worsen.

3. Leaking Flanges and Seals

Leaks around the drain flange are typically caused by a failed seal. Flanges can be removed and replaced, or you can simply have the existing flange resealed. The seal around the exterior of the sink, which attaches it to the counter, can also fail and require resealing. If the sink around the flange or the sink lip at the counter has been damaged, though, replacement of the entire sink may be necessary. Examples of damage could be major dents or rust that prevents a secure seal from being applied.

4. Outdated Style

Sometimes your sink works perfectly fine, but it is outdated and no longer fits your needs. The style may not work with your kitchen, or perhaps you want to put in new faucets but no suitable designs fit the old sink. Another issue often experienced in the kitchen is that the old sink doesn't work with your cooking style. You may need a deeper sink, or you may prefer to get rid of the divided sink for a larger single sink, particularly if you don't wash dishes by hand.

Contact a plumbing service in your area to schedule a sink replacement.