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 shape gives this design more of a compact space, allowing drop-in farmhouse sinks to be available in single, double or even triple bowl styles. However, since these sinks are dropped in, additional supports should be placed to reinforce the sink as it does not have a wall anchor.
One of the drawbacks of choosing a farmhouse sink is the installation process. Depending on how your kitchen is set up, you may have to alter the size and design of your countertops before the farmhouse sink installation. Farmhouse sinks are much deeper and wider than classic kitchen 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.
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.
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.
Fireclay Sinks
These sinks are extremely popular these days and understandably so. Fireclay is made when clay and glaze are fused together at extremely high temperatures. This creates a highly durable material that is hard and resistant to chips and cracks.
Step 6: Add Support to Cabinets
Because farmhouse sinks are pretty heavy, you'll need to add support to the inside of the cabinet to be able to hold the weight. You can do this by adding two two-by-four pieces of wood to the sides horizontally.
The two top contenders are either a enamel-coated cast iron or a fireclay apron sink. Both are very strong materials, and both have been used for hundreds of years to make not only sinks but also structural building materials and tools for extreme temperatures.
Finally, there is a difference in the style of the two sinks. Farmhouse kitchen sinks are designed to add a rustic, farmhouse-style aesthetic to the kitchen, while apron sinks are more modern and sleek. Both farmhouse sinks and apron sinks are excellent choices for any kitchen.
2. Farmhouse sinks (+26 percent) Porcelain, apron-front sinks are a splurge kitchen choice for sure—but apparently they pay you back big-time in the long run.
The most popular type of kitchen sink is a dual-basin or double basin, which allows for washing on one side and rinsing or drying on the other. A single basin, which has only one area for both, is a more budget-friendly option. Other popular kitchen sink styles include self-rimming and drop-in.
A common issue with the undermount design is that they can be prone to sagging over time. When the sink starts pulling away from the countertop, leaving a gap, it needs to be hiked back up and secured in place. Undermount sinks work best with solid granite, marble, or concrete counters.
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.
A porcelain farmhouse sink is a highly coveted kitchen feature—and for good reason. Farmhouse sinks are beautiful, spacious, and timeless, plus they add a distinctive look to any kitchen they're placed in.
With an apron sink, you can keep much of this mess at bay. If any water, suds, or spills make their way over the front lip, they'll avoid your counter and cabinets, landing on the floor instead. This is because the sink itself sticks out beyond the depth of your cabinets.
Whether you have a shining copper sink or a gleaming fireclay basin, the most reliable solution is a sink grid placed in the bottom of your Farmhouse sink.
Kohler makes farmhouse sinks with smaller aprons to keep the same aesthetic in a more manageable size for some cabinets. In most new homes the kitchen sink is approximately 30 inches in length, which is a standard size for a farmhouse sink. The other standard sizes are 24, 33, and 36 inches.
Bridge Faucets
Farmhouse-style sinks, being a rustic classic, naturally work well with traditional bridge-style faucets. This style has split connections to the hot and cold intake with a bridge that joins the two to the faucet itself (with no center hole).
Easy cleaning – Because farmhouse sinks require a spray faucet, they're actually so easy to clean. No more nooks and crannies from a traditional double sink.
Pros of a Drop-In Sink
Drop-in or “top mount” sinks are more common than undermount options and can save costs on materials and installation. Drop-in sinks are: Budget-friendly: Drop-in models are typically more affordable than undermount sink options.
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.
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.”