Countertop: Undermount sinks can be used with a variety of countertop materials, including granite, quartz, and solid surface. Drop-in sinks, on the other hand, are generally more flexible and can be used with any type of countertop, including laminate and tile.
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.
While undermount sinks are currently preferred for looks, overmount can be a better investment in longevity for certain countertop materials like wood.
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 But drop-in sinks do not have much in the way of resale value and are aesthetically outdated.
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.
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.
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.
A stainless steel sink is the most durable and low-maintenance kitchen sink as they are resistant to heat, stains, and scratches. What's more, they are also some of the most versatile sinks coming in a variety of styles and sizes meaning they fit in most kitchens easily no matter the size or style.
The most popular bathroom sink shape is by far the Oval Sink. It's the ideal size as it's wider than round & square sinks but it allows more counterspace than rectangular sinks. Due to its popularity, it's also the most affordable type of shape.
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.
When you have a negative reveal, a portion of the countertop underside is exposed to splashing water. When you use a porous material, water can seep through and the sink area can become a breeding ground for mold.
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.
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.
Quartz countertops from companies such as Caesarstone and PentalQuartz are another good option. Blackband recommends sticking with white or, if you don't like white, a neutral color, such as tan, beige or ivory. Go with a subtle pattern and low veining for a longer-lasting look.
When cleaned regularly and properly maintained, these types of kitchen sinks are able to keep their original glossy appearance for years to come. Porcelain, ceramic and fireclay kitchen sinks have extremely low water absorption characteristics (making them easy to keep clean on a regular basis).
While Shaker kitchens might date back to 1774, when the Shakers who arrived in America from England, created the style out of necessity for usefulness and practicality over kitchen trends, the Shaker kitchen style has never gone out of style, even today.
Birchfield agrees, pointing out that fireclay and granite selections have been on the rise as they offer more warmth or a sense of nostalgia to the kitchen space. "White fireclay apron front sinks have been on the rise offering a charming statement piece.
Quartz Composite
Best for: High durability, heat-resistance, and sound dampening. If the vulnerabilities of solid surface acrylic resin or enameled kitchen sinks are concerning, then a quartz composite kitchen sink is a great option.
The best color for a sink could be traditional white, multi-colored through to a statement black, including metallic finishes in silver, gold, and bronze. There is a huge selection of sink colors and shades to harmonize and blend with your existing bathroom, kitchen, and washroom color schemes.
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.
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.”
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.