Is there a way to repair the leak without calling a plumber?

Q: The trap beneath our kitchen sink is leaking, and I can’t get the fitting to tighten. Is there a way to repair the leak without calling a plumber?

A: Since the water in drain pipes is not pressurized, leaks can often be fixed using self-fusing silicone tape. Stretch a length of the tape and wrap it around the problem area of the drain pipe, overlapping the tape and making sure to cover the surface on both sides of the leak. The tape fuses to itself to form a waterproof seal.