Choosing an Overmount or Undermount Sink

10 Jun Choosing an Overmount or Undermount Sink

There are many aspects of a kitchen sink to consider, such as size, depth, dividers, and materials. Deciding whether you are looking for an over or undermount sink is best to be decided first, as it will simplify your decisions down the road.

Undermount Sinks – Undermount sinks have that name because they sit under the counter, so that the edge of the sink is below the level of the countertop.

Pros-

1. Easy to wipe food and liquid messes directly into the sink
2. Undermount sinks can be deeper for cleaning large pots and pans

Cons-

1. Best used with waterproof,  non-porous countertops like granite and other types of stone, or water-resistant composite.
2. Slightly more expensive installation.

Overmount Sinks – Also called top-mount or drop-in sinks, overmount sinks have a lip that sits above, and covers a small area of the countertop.

Pros-

1. Generally more affordable, even with pro installation
2. Appropriate for more porous surfaces that are not solid and need protection, such as butcher block counters.

Cons-

1. Can collect crumbs and water around the edges, which can result in mold
2. The raised lip of the sink interrupts the level surface of the countertop