Undermount sinks are a popular choice for many homeowners because they offer a sleek, seamless look that is easy to keep clean. Because there is no lip around the edge of the sink, it is easier to wipe debris directly into the sink, rather than having to clean around the rim of the sink.
Since undermount sinks to not have anything above the counter to help carry their weight, they need more support. They also need more solid countertops that don't suffer easily from water damage. This often makes them a more expensive sink than other options and also makes installation more difficult.
Pros of an Undermount Sink
Undermount sinks are: Easy to clean: Countertop cleanup is more streamlined with undermount sinks since you can wipe any spills or crumbs directly into the sink. Highly durable: Undermount sink types can be worth the price for their durability and quick countertop cleanup.
When you have a negative reveal, a portion of the countertop underside is exposed to splashing water. When you use a porous material, water can seep through and the sink area can become a breeding ground for mold.
Weight: Stainless steel or copper sinks tend to be the lightest, while vitreous china, porcelain, ceramic and composites are moderately heavy. Choose a heavy stone, cast iron or enameled-steel undermount sink only if you're sure the countertop can support the weight.
Simply put, yes, you can replace an undermount sink without having to remove the countertop. After the plumbing and garbage disposal are disconnected, the clips that hold the sink to the countertop from below must be removed. Then, the final step is to break the silicone adhesive bond and pull the sink out.
A zero reveal is a counter that is flush with the sink's rim. This is the most stylish and practical reveal for an undermount sink. It's free from cracks and crevices where debris can get stuck, making your sink very easy to clean. And, it will add high-end appeal to your home.
'The easiest kitchen sink material to maintain is going to be one made of stainless steel, copper, cast iron or enamel because they will not support microbial growth as they are not cellulose material,' says Darren Hudema, director of training and technical services at PuroClean.
An undermount kitchen sink is easier to clean. Since your countertops are below your sink, there will be little need for scrubbing them. You will also have less counter space, so cleaning will take less time. With less counter space, you will also have less waste from pans and pots.
Some say drop-in is generally the best option because it's easier to access all parts of the sink for cleaning. However, both types of sinks tend to accumulate grime along the caulk line where the sink meets the counter. Where an undermount sink rim and counter meet, the caulked gap can be trickier to clean.
The lack of a visible lip with an undermount sink makes it quite a bit easier to clean your counters; you can sweep any debris from your counters right into the sink. However, top mount sinks are the simplest of the two types of sink to keep clean themselves.
Undermount sinks are simply more practical, functional and aesthetically pleasing than overmount sinks. With undermount sinks, it is really easy to wipe food crumbs from the countertops into the kitchen sink. There is no edge, no seam and no calking in the way.
Overall, which is better: Undermount or Drop-in Sinks? In general, which sink type is best for you will come down to preference. Drop-in sinks represent a sink type that is affordable, flexible, and easy to install. But drop-in sinks do not have much in the way of resale value and are aesthetically outdated.
While it can be done, changing a sink in a granite countertop puts the stone at risk of damage, which can be very pricey to repair. Fortunately, the process of removing a sink in a granite countertop is far less challenging than it seems – so long as you have the proper tools.
Countertop Compatibility
Whether you have a granite, marble, or soapstone countertop, a drop-in sink will go in without any hiccups. Undermount sinks, on the other hand, work well with all countertop materials except custom tile and laminate tops.
Can I Hire a Plumber for Undermount Sink Installation? Installing a sink is no small task, so you may want to hire a plumber to ensure it's connected properly and leak-free. Plumbers charge between $45 and $200 per hour on average. Installing a sink only takes about an hour.
Undermount sinks also remain popular, with Beesley sharing that they're “a popular choice for customers as they are installed under the level of the worktop creating a seamless design. These types of sinks save space, and create a clean and sleek look which is great for minimalist-style kitchens.”
Stainless Steel Sinks for Granite Countertops
Stainless steel is incredibly popular for sinks because it: Looks great with granite. Resists chipping and cracking. Gives a modern look to the kitchen even in a farmhouse style.
Unfortunately, kitchens are prone to mold and mildew growth because of the high levels of moisture and humidity that are present in them. Mold in kitchens is most often found under the sink, in and behind cupboards, around window sills, behind appliances and kitchen furniture, on walls and around taps or sinks.
Properly installing and sealing an undermount sink is crucial for this style of bathroom or kitchen sink in order to make sure it's properly supported and to prevent leakage. Your counter and supports need to be able to keep the sink in its place and hold its weight safely.