silicone sealer

[Matheous-2]

Is silicone an acceptable seal around sink wastes? eg. five or more years 'shelf life'/service....?

[NazNomad]

Between the sink and the waste? Shouldn't need any sealant as the rubber seal on the waste fitting should suffice.

So, in answer, I'd say almost always no, it's not acceptable.

[Matheous-2]

This is a tricky one as the sink has an integrated overflow or in layman's terms- it's hollow. I do know that the plumber had to drill a small hole at the side of the waste to allow water to flow from the overflow cavity. I think that's why silicone was used.....Not sure if silicone is now a commonly used seal for such fittings?

[NazNomad]

Does the overflow cavity have its own 'pipe' coming out of the sink? (I'm not explaining what I'm visualising very well, sorry).

I don't see where you'd need to drill a hole in a waste pipe unless it was to fit a 'boss' to attach another pipe (usually a smaller one into a bigger one kinda thing)

[Matheous-2]

No -there is no o/flow pipe. The o/flow hole leads the water into the sink cavity if you know what I mean. I think it's probably not a standard type of sink (bought online)....

Thanks for your help NazNomad- sorry if my explanation isn't clear....One of those things that probably needs a diagram.

[NazNomad]

Do you have a link to where you bought it?

[Matheous-2]

Sorry- I don't.....My wife bought a pair of bathroom sinks plus a unit with cupboards & drawers which all looks very nice -but I suspect all is not up to 'BS'......

[NazNomad]

Is it a 'Belfast' type sink? http://www.bathsupers...6f8.image.240x240.jpg

[The Builder]

I think I know what you mean Math. It's an integral overflow, much like a bathroom basin waste. It needs a "slotted" waste. Sometimes the right sized waste for imported sinks isn't slotted, which is why the plumber drilled the hole.
I think Naz is thinking more of a stainless steel sink, which would seal with a rubber washer. If I'm right about yours, then silicone on each side of the washer is often used. Just hand-tighten the backnut though, or you'll squish out all the silicone.
Everyone has different ways of doing this.............. other methods are available :o))))

[Matheous-2]

Thanks a lot guys for your input- much appreciated!!!

[AlBags]

Builder and I know what you mean.
Yes .. Integral Waste ... like a Belfast or English sink have!
Use a bit of silicon if necessary. Be sure to centralise waste properly, as it is made slippery by the sealant.
Leave alone 'til cured.