I get where you’re coming from with the leak detectors—having that early warning can be a real lifesaver, especially in older homes. Still, I’ve found them to be a bit hit-or-miss, particularly in spots where drips are slow or intermittent. Sometimes by the time the alarm goes off, there’s already swelling in the cabinet base.
On the liners, I’ve actually had better luck with rigid ABS plastic trays. They’re not cheap, but they don’t curl up or get funky over time like vinyl. Plus, if you ever need to pull them out for a deep clean, it’s way less hassle than dealing with varnish. Marine varnish is tough stuff though, I’ll give you that—just be careful about fumes and proper curing, especially in tight spaces.
Sometimes I wonder if just replacing the old particleboard bases with plywood is worth the trouble. It’s a bit of work, but at least you know it’ll handle moisture better in the long run...
Swapping out particleboard for plywood does make a difference—especially if you’re thinking long-term. I did that in my last kitchen reno and honestly, the peace of mind is worth the hassle, even if it’s a weekend project you don’t exactly look forward to. Plywood just holds up so much better when there’s a slow leak you don’t catch right away.
On the liners, I’ve tried both the rigid trays and a DIY approach with leftover FRP panels from another project. Not as pretty, but they’re waterproof and easy to wipe down. I hear you on the cost of ABS though—it adds up fast if you’re doing every cabinet.
I’m curious if anyone’s tried any of the eco-friendly sealants or moisture barriers? I keep seeing products made from recycled materials, but I haven’t pulled the trigger yet. Wondering if they’re actually tough enough for under-sink chaos or if it’s just clever marketing...
I’m curious if anyone’s tried any of the eco-friendly sealants or moisture barriers? I keep seeing products made from recycled materials, but I haven’t pulled the trigger yet. Wondering if they’re actually tough enough for under-sink chaos or if it’s just clever marketing...
- Tried a soy-based sealant once under my laundry sink. It went on easy, but honestly, after a year it started peeling where water pooled. Not sure I’d trust it for kitchen cabinets.
- For old houses like mine, I stick with marine-grade polyurethane. Not eco, but it’s bulletproof.
- FRP panels are a solid hack—done that too. Not pretty, but who’s looking under the sink anyway?
- If you do try one of those recycled options, test a scrap first. Some of them just don’t hold up to real-world messes.
I’ve actually put a couple of those “green” sealants through their paces in client kitchens. One was a recycled rubber-based product—looked promising, but after six months, it started bubbling up where the dishwasher leaked. I get the appeal, but honestly, nothing I’ve seen beats a solid coat of marine polyurethane for under-sink abuse. FRP panels are ugly, yeah, but they’re basically indestructible. If you’re set on eco-friendly, just be ready to touch up or replace sooner than you’d like. Sometimes the old-school stuff just works better for the long haul.
One was a recycled rubber-based product—looked promising, but after six months, it started bubbling up where the dishwasher leaked. I get the appeal, but honestly, nothing I’ve seen beats a sol...
I hear you on the durability front—marine polyurethane is tough to beat under a sink. I’ve had similar issues with “green” sealants not holding up to constant moisture. Have you ever tried using a waterproof membrane before applying the sealant? I’ve found that combo can sometimes extend the lifespan, though it’s a bit more work upfront. Curious if anyone’s had luck with that approach or if it’s just delaying the inevitable.
