Drop-in sinks are a popular choice for do-it-yourself homeowners because they are relatively easy to install and can be used with a variety of countertop materials. They are also typically less expensive than undermount sinks.
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.
Because drop-in sinks are an older design, many would-be home buyers consider them to be dated; undermount sinks, on the other hand, are often seen as a sign of a more recent, higher-end (and thus more valuable) kitchen.
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.
While installing a drop-in sink can be a challenge, it is easier to install than many other kitchen sink options. Most beginner do-it-yourselfers can successfully install a drop-in sink, so long as they have the right tools and materials and can follow directions well.
There is a visible rim or lip on the perimeter of the basin that rests just over the cut-out for the sink. Drop-in sinks are supported by this lip and a series of hidden clips that attach to the underside of the countertop.
Drop-in sinks are characterized by a visible rim that rests upon the counter. A bead of caulk is run along the rim of the sink after installation to create a watertight seal and hold the sink in place. Silicone sealant is best used for this application because of its flexibility and resilience.
There are five common types of mounting installation options for a sink into your quartz countertop: drop-in, undermount (Zero Reveal, Positive Reveal and Negative Reveal) and farmhouse sink.
Drop-in sinks are a popular choice for do-it-yourself homeowners because they are relatively easy to install and can be used with a variety of countertop materials.
The most stain-resistant sink is a stainless steel sink. A stainless steel sink is the most durable and low-maintenance kitchen sink as they are resistant to heat, stains, and scratches.
Natural stone. An increasingly popular alternative to a classic ceramic or stainless steel sink, a natural stone sink brings warmth and character to kitchen trends. Natural materials are a key tenet of 'soft' minimalism, the latest wave of the trend synonymous with calming, clutter-free spaces.
While undermount sinks are currently preferred for looks, overmount can be a better investment in longevity for certain countertop materials like wood.
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.
Cons of a Drop-in Sink
Consider these potential cons of drop-in sinks: Less counter space: Kitchen or bathroom countertops with limited space might not be the best choice for drop-in installation since the perimeter sink lip will take away countertop surface area.
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.
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.
Double Basin/Bowl Sink
The most popular type of kitchen sink arrangement, dual basins allow for washing on one side and rinsing or drying on the other side.
Stainless Steel Sinks
The most popular kitchen sink material, stainless steel is available in a wide variety of styles, including drop-in, farmhouse and undermount. It provides an excellent balance of cost, durability and ease of cleaning.
A drop in sink with granite countertop is a popular installation choice for today's homeowners. These are also called top-mount or self-rimming sinks. Basically, a hole is cut into the countertop and the sink is dropped in, making it one of the easiest installation options on the market today.
You Can't Set Hot Pans on Them
Although quartz countertops are extremely durable and considered heat-resistant, putting a hot pan right on the surface can damage the material. As with most other countertops, you'll need to use a trivet or stove mitt to protect it, as heat can cause discoloration and/or cracking.
Unlike natural stone, Quartz countertops should not be exposed to hot pots and pans.
However, if you have tile or laminate counters, undermount sinks may not work well, as these counters are wood under the surface. Instead, a drop-in kitchen sink is the better choice. A drop-in sink is suitable for any type of countertop and can be sealed with epoxy under the rim of the sink.
The main difference between plumbers putty or silicone for sink drain is how easy the substances are to manipulate or remove. Plumbers putty is very easy to manipulate into tight areas, and it's also easier to remove. That makes silicone putty better for waterproofing, even if it's more difficult to work with.
For a stainless or metal sink (such as those commonly found in kitchens), you'll want to use a silicone-based caulk. For a porcelain sink (more common in bathroom spaces), a latex-based caulk will be a better fit. When choosing caulk, it's also important to select a color that will best suit the space.