How to fix water-damaged benchtop?

[davidfko]

The benchtop underneath the sink is rotten in which the screw of the sink tap cannot be tighten firmly. Could you please advise how to fix it?

[JacobZ]

Hi @davidfko,

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community, it is wonderful to have you with us.

I would start by addressing the leak on the topside of the bench that has caused the issue. Check the silicone around the tap to ensure there are no holes or gaps, and replace the silicone if needed.

You'll then have to let the benchtop fully dry. Once dry, you can use Earl's Wood Hardener. It is not designed for this specific purpose, but I am fairly confident it will help.

If this doesn't harden the damage enough, you could remove the tap, cut a piece of plywood that isn't too thick to prevent the tap from passing through, cut a hole in it to allow the tap and hoses to pass threw, screw it to the underside of the benchtop, then reattach the tap. This piece of plywood would be solid and take the clamping force from the tap.

Let me know what you think.

Jacob

[Noyade]

Same thoughts as @JacobZ 

But I would be cutting steel plate the same thickness as the washer - to the maximum surface area available. Maybe hexagonal?

Multiple drilling and force would make the receiving hole.

Happy to help making such a large washer. 

Just a thought.

[davidfko]

Thanks Jacob for your advice! I'll try the wood hardener and see if it works. 

[davidfko]

Thanks Noyade!