A bathroom faucet that drips, sprays, or has weak flow may need a small internal repair, a new faucet, or attention to the supply and drain connections. The right choice depends on the failure and the fixture condition.
Identify the Symptom
Note whether the leak occurs from the spout, handle, base, supply line, or underneath the sink. A faucet that is hard to turn may have a worn cartridge or mineral buildup, while low flow may involve an aerator or shutoff valve. Water around the base can damage the cabinet or countertop over time.
What May Be Checked
A provider may inspect the cartridge, seals, aerator, mounting hardware, flexible supplies, shutoffs, and sink surface. If both hot and cold flow are affected, the cause may be upstream rather than inside the faucet. Corrosion can make removal more difficult than the repair itself.
Choosing an Approach
Repair is often sensible when the faucet is compatible with available parts and the body is in good condition. Replacement may be preferable when the fixture is corroded, parts are unavailable, the finish is failing, or repeated repairs have not solved the issue. A new faucet also needs to fit the sink openings and supply arrangement.
Prepare for the Visit
Clear the cabinet, remove stored items, and place a towel or shallow container beneath the connections. Avoid forcing the shutoffs. Have the faucet model or a photograph available if you want to preserve the same configuration.
Scope and Follow-Up
The scope can increase if shutoffs do not work, supply lines are seized, the sink is damaged, or the cabinet has water damage. Ask whether the proposed work includes testing both temperature supplies, checking for leaks after use, and removing the old fixture.
When to Contact a Provider
A persistent drip, wet cabinet, or shutoff that cannot close should be addressed promptly. Local independent providers may recommend repair or replacement after seeing the fixture and confirming compatible parts.