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.
Unless the sink was formed as a continuous component of the countertop, it can be removed and replaced easily – whether it's undermount or drop-in. Though, you will need to make sure that the replacement sink is suited for the same size hole that you already have in the countertop.
Order of Installation
It's very important to install an undermount kitchen sink before the countertop slabs are set down. Once the countertop slabs are set down, you usually will not be able to fit the sink through the hole, and you won't be able to properly seal between the sink and the underside of the countertop.
Undermount sinks in granite countertops typically require some additional steps than their top-mount counterparts. Since undermount sinks lack a flange that holds them in position above the hole in the granite, they are glued underneath the stone with an epoxy or some other durable adhesive.
Stainless steel and solid surfacing make the best material for undermount sink bowls when used with laminate countertops because the adhesives are made specifically to bond to these materials. Finally, it's best to leave this particular project to the pros.
Undermount sinks are typically attached with a two-part epoxy adhesive and sealed with silicone caulking around the perimeter. Make sure to get a professional or someone who knows what they're doing. Most professionals can install an undermount kitchen sink in 30 minutes or less.
Undermount sinks are a beautiful accent to Riverstone Quartz™ and Corinthian™ Solid Surface countertops. Proper installation will help to ensure long-lasting beauty and durability.
Undermount sinks are attached directly to the underside of the countertop. They work best with solid-surface countertops, such as granite or marble, because they need the strength for support. They can be attached with various methods, including a two-part epoxy, clips and brackets.
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.
Whether the countertop is fabricated from granite, engineered stone or solid surface material virtually any sink can be undermounted.
Unfortunately, the weight, moisture, and vibration of the garbage disposal will literally pull the sink away causing it to separate and fail. The result is moisture problems in your sink cabinet, stressful haggling with the installer to fix it, and even costly repair bills to make it right!
The contractor told me that I could buy the larger sized sink because they don't use the clips to install it. He said they don't like drilling into the quartz because of risk of cracking. Rather they can just glue it in place with silicone and/or epoxy.
Marble and granite
In this case, they are ideal for undermount sinks because they also happen to be durable. The fact that they are porous also helps in helping the adhesives bind more firmly with the stones. Despite what most people think, marble is not a “soft” stone.
Most undermount sink manufacturers recommend that you use pure, 100-percent silicone sealant for undermount sink installation.
An undermount sink is just like the name sounds – a sink that fits underneath your countertops. This sink has many benefits compared to other options and makes task work in your kitchen much easier. Undermount sinks work best when they are installed in conjunction with natural stone countertops, like granite.
Use construction adhesive to glue the sink clip studs in place. Follow instructions for drying time. Using a caulk gun, apply a thick bead of silicone caulk to the countertop along the inner edge of the outline. Place the sink down and clip it to the countertop by twisting the wingnuts that come with the clips.
Silicone caulk will bind a ceramic sink to a quartz countertop base with no issues. Homeowners favor undermount sinks for the high-end look. They promote better drainage by preventing the accumulation of water on top of the countertops.
OVERHANG - The countertop extends over the edge of the sink on all sides by approximately 1/8" - 1/4". Use caution with this installation to be sure that accessories such as colanders or cutting boards will fit properly.
Stainless steel sinks offer a complementary look for quartz countertops and can bring out different colors and patterns in the natural stone. Stainless steel is durable and water-resistant. It's also easy to clean and lends an industrial, urban visual to your bathroom space.