How to Select an Undermount Sink

The traditional top-set sink is mounted on top of the finish material of the countertop, however, not all of countertops comprise these types of sinks. Undermount sinks are built so that they mount under the countertop, or flush with the countertop for a solid-surface finish. They range from steel to plastics to composites and natural stones, and while more difficult to install than top mounts, they render a more seamless appearance and feel.

Material Type

Stainless steel is among the more common substances used to manufacture undermount sinks since it is easily accessible, affordable and easy to install. Natural stone sinks are more expensive and generally require a specialist to install to make sure that the sink is not damaged in the process, and that means you have to factor in an installation cost rather than buying a sink you can install yourself. There’s also cast iron to consider, as well as porcelain, enameled-coated and mix substances mixed with assorted stone dusts.

Built-in or Glue On

Specific installation instructions vary by sink and producer, however as a rule of thumb, you just have two options for fundamental undermount sinks: glue them on the underside of the countertop or construct them in the countertop and cabinet in the bottom side. The built-in method is best done before a countertop stuff is put in place so that you can make certain that you don’t accidentally break any countertop material through the mounting and drilling period. Glue-on installations are simpler, and the sinks are held in place with clamps while the adhesive dries. If you’ve got an existing countertop, then glue-on installations supply you with the most straightforward choice.

Built-In Installations

Most undermount sinks have been bolted on or glued onto the base of the countertop deck or slab material, but a number of them are built into the actual countertop. These types of installations are just an option if you are doing a remodel or building your cupboards for the very first time since once the sink is built into the cabinet frames, it is locked into place. The only way to eliminate it after this point is to execute an whole countertop and cabinet remodel. Natural stone is one common type of sink built into the actual countertop, with the slab material set after the fact. This is an advanced method for people with specialized skills and working knowledge of tools and carpentry. Otherwise, this is one method that is best left to the experts to protect your investment.

Restrictions and Installation

Top-set sinks do not have some restrictions for the form of countertop that they are set on, but with undermount sink, not all countertop materials are made equal. Undermount sinks require the countertop stuff be especially strong, like concrete or granite, or even be built into the deck for ceramic tile and natural-stone tile countertops. Additionally, some heavier sinks require brackets or custom hardwood frames built into the cupboards. In the case of larger sinks, an whole shelf for the bottom of the sink is built into the base cabinet. When choosing your undermount sink in the shop, remember that the more contemporary and manmade substances are lighter and easier to install, while natural substances would be the toughest and most expensive, demanding more time or professional help.

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