Chrome trap fittings on sinks just aren’t what they used to be. I have seen fifty-year-old fittings still going strong and I have seen fittings less than two years old with holes in them.
The problem is that the gauge (and possibly the quality of the brass as well) of the newer fittings is so thin that they corrode through (from the inside) very quickly. Note the corrosion on these newer fittings.
Even when these traps are not leaking I usually recommend upgrading them before they do leak.
Most people are willing to change the trap components to plastic when the fittings are concealed inside cabinets, but most are resistant to change the ones on pedestal sinks to plastic because of the “look.” They are now making these more durable plastic drain components with a shiny chrome finish. As seen in this next picture.
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Sometimes I feel trapped but the varying quality of products available for home construction and maintenance.
Such is the notion of planned obsolescence I guess.
The house I am renting now has chrome traps in the kitchen and have corroded. Is there something specific to cause them to corrode or just something that will happen over time no matter what?
The typical chrome trap has a very short life span even under normal conditions—of course many household cleaners are very hard on them as well. PVC type traps are virtually indestructible and cheaper as well. They are also engineered to improve flow.