A chipped kitchen or bathroom sink doesn’t automatically mean you need a new one. In many cases, professional repair is significantly cheaper, faster and less disruptive than replacement. This guide helps you understand the true cost comparison and make the right decision for your situation.
The Real Cost of Sink Replacement
Replacing a kitchen sink involves more than just buying a new sink. The total cost includes:
- New sink — £80–£800 depending on material and brand
- Plumber labour — £100–£300 to disconnect, remove and refit
- New tap fittings — if not compatible with the new sink, £80–£400
- Worktop modification — if the cutout needs adjustment, £50–£200
- New waste kit — £20–£50
- Sealant and fitting materials — £20–£40
Even a basic replacement can easily reach £400–£700 all-in. Premium granite composite or fireclay replacements can cost £1,000–£2,000+ installed.
The Cost of Professional Sink Repair
Professional chip repair for a kitchen or bathroom sink typically costs a fraction of replacement, is completed in a single visit of 1–2 hours, and requires no plumbing work whatsoever.
When Repair Is the Right Choice
- A single chip or crack on an otherwise sound sink
- The sink is a premium brand or discontinued range (replacement would mean sourcing a close match)
- The sink was recently installed — replacement would be disproportionately expensive
- The damage is cosmetic only and plumbing is unaffected
- Budget constraints make replacement impractical right now
When Replacement Is the Right Choice
- The sink is cracked through structurally and is leaking
- The surface has deteriorated across a wide area rather than in one spot
- You want to change the size, style or material entirely
- The sink is very old and multiple problems are present
Sink Types and Repairability
- Ceramic/fireclay — excellent repairability; chips repaired to near-invisible standard
- Granite composite (Silgranit, Fragranite) — very good; solid colour throughout makes matching achievable
- Stainless steel — dents can sometimes be pressed out; scratches harder to address invisibly
- Belfast/butler style — excellent; fireclay is very repairable
- Undermount stone — edge chips repairable using stone repair compounds
Get a Free Assessment
Send photographs of the damaged sink and we’ll give you an honest assessment of whether repair or replacement is the better option, along with a no-obligation repair quote.
