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.
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.”
Undermount Sinks Make Cleaning Easy
Of the kitchen sink options, undermount sinks are a perfect choice to keep the home clean. Because they are caulked or clipped directly to the vanity or counter space, there is no gap underneath 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.
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 But drop-in sinks do not have much in the way of resale value and are aesthetically outdated.
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.
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.
Moldy or Cracked Caulk: Just like topmount sinks, undermount sinks on granite and quartz need to be sealed to prevent moisture from creating mold and mildew problems in the cabinet.
Timeless: Think farmhouse sinks in porcelain, soapstone sinks (integrated into the counter, or not), and surprisingly, concrete (subtle colors akin to soapstone or slate). Copper is a timeless material for pantries and bars.
Most Popular By Configuration. Single basin, apron/farmhouse, workstation, and double basin kitchen sinks are the most popular sink styles for the upcoming years.
We're not saying stainless steel sinks are going out of style; they're similar to white kitchens - a.k.a. "always in style." But, based on some of our customers' recent choices, those that choose to pass on stainless sink options seem to prefer innovative alternatives that add a little more color to their kitchen ...
The oval sink is also the most practical sink shapes amongst undermount sinks. The oval shape allows the sink to be wide without having to take as much space on your counter as the rectangular sinks. In addition, the vast majority of oval bowls swoops down which allows for better drainage than the flat bottom sinks.
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.
Pro: An undermount sink is easier to clean
There's no accumulation of dirt or crumbs, unlike with traditional sinks where you can get obstructed by the rim. Over time, the lip around a sink can collect so much debris that it becomes both an appearance and cleanliness issue.
Many undermount sink types are attached to the countertop with silicone sealant and metal clips. Use a utility knife to cut through the silicone, then unscrew the clips. Removing and installing an undermount sink is a two-person job.
Farmhouse sinks are typically installed undermount and hence, are not compatible with laminate countertops. Look for an over-mount farmhouse sink that could be retrofitted with the cabinets and one that sits on top of the laminate countertop to eliminate the risk of water damage and warping.
The rim of a drop-in sink is noticeable, meaning there is less counter space in contrast to undermount sinks. Generally, drop-in sinks have more inexpensive options in comparison to undermount sinks. The undermount sink is the more expensive alternative and will also cost more install.
Countertop Compatibility
Rimmed sinks work well with all countertops. 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.
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.
Undermount sinks are not much more expensive than other varieties of sinks, but the installation can cost more. For budget undermount sink options, choose a smaller size and a material like acrylic, stainless steel, a composite stone, or porcelain. These sinks are lighter than natural stone and more budget conscious.