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Removing Dents From Stainless Steel Sinks

Steve Smith

Dents in stainless-steel sinks can be removed using a plunger, or dent puller. This device has a rubber plunger that can be affixed to the sink right over the dent. To remove the dent, you pull the pull wire and pop the dent out. There are many variations on this theme, and they can be used for different types of dents.

Dent Plungers

Dent Pullers With Braces and Pull Mechanisms

Pulling out a dent by hand can be tough in some cases. So some plunger dent pullers come with a brace that also fits over the dent surface. The plunger is attached to a threaded bolt and mount that, when turned, slowly pulls the plunger up and pulls the dent out. This is best for sharp dents or dents in thicker stainless-steel sinks. For dents in thin-walled sinks, a hand plunger dent puller is sufficient.

Bead and Wire Dent Pullers

For very-hard-to-remove dents, a wire dent puller with a bead or brace is used. First a hole is drilled into the stainless steel sink. Then the wire is inserted into the hole and the brace screwed onto the wire, behind the dent. The wire is pulled, and the dent pops up. However, this leaves a hole in the sink. The hole needs to be filled with plumbers putty or soldering. This should only be used when no other method works.

Hammer and Mallet

A better way to pull a dent without making a hole in the sink is to remove the sink and push the dent out from behind with a rubber mallet. Just lay the mallet on the back of the dent and push until it pops. This will leave small crease or impression in some cases, but it is preferable to making a hole in your sink. This method is also for hard-to-remove dents.