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.
Choosing a sink based on your countertop material
If you are getting natural stone countertops like granite and marble or even quartz, you can have either an overmount or undermount sink installed.
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.
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.
Undermount sinks are recommended for granite, solid surface and quartz countertops, but may not be as effective with laminate. They can be more expensive than drop-in sinks.
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.
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.
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.
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.”
The under-counter basin is easier to clean, easy to clean and hygienic, and the sanitary corners can also be seen clearly. But the disadvantage of the under-counter basin is that the construction is more difficult, and the bearing capacity is not as good as that of the over-counter basin. It is troublesome to install.
Composite Granite Sink Disadvantages
Hardness: While some sink materials are more forgiving, composite granite is hard enough to break glassware when dropped onto the surface. This granite composite sink problem is something to consider if you frequently wash breakable dishes in the sink.
Quartz tends to be more affordable, and it comes in a vast array of color choices because it's basically a manmade product. Granite composite, on the other hand, although a little pricier, is indestructible as a countertop or sink because a large percent of the product is actual stone from the earth's crust.
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.
Most Popular By Configuration. Single basin, apron/farmhouse, workstation, and double basin kitchen sinks are the most popular sink styles for the upcoming years.
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!
While undermount sinks are currently preferred for looks, overmount can be a better investment in longevity for certain countertop materials like wood.
Advantages of Installing an Under-Mount Sink
Because the sink is installed underneath the countertop, it creates a seamless look that is both stylish and functional. There is no lip or rim around the edge of the sink, which makes it easier to wipe down and keep clean.
Whether you installed the undermount sink yourself or had it installed by a pro, it's not uncommon for leaks to develop in a matter of days or weeks after the installation.
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.