So you’re looking to redesign your kitchen. Congratulations on taking those first steps to come to a decision on this renovation! This project can be quite taxing, both mentally and physically, depending on how you’re getting it done and if you’re getting the help of experienced contractors.
One of the big decisions you will be making regarding your kitchen renovation will have to do with your sink. While the material, style and size are all vital aspects to how you want your sink to operate and look, how it is mounted into your counter will be important as well.
Two of the main ways your kitchen sink can be mounted is with a top-mount or with an under-mount. Both options come with their own set of pros and cons, and what decision you will make will entirely depend on your specific situation regarding your kitchen. Luckily, with the help of our team here at Andre Kitchen and Bath, we would like to help make this decision easier for you by listing out all the information about both of these types of sink mounts.
What is a Top-Mount Sink?
While this sink is also commonly called a “drop-in” sink or an “overmount” sink, a top-mount sink is a sink that has its edges lying above the counter, visible to the person using it. Because of this, a top-mount sink will cover a lot more counter area (or a little more counter area, depending on the type of sink you buy). In order for this sink to be held in place, it will commonly be installed with clips underneath it to keep everything secure. The lip that sits around the edges of this sink will also further help to secure it down.
The Pros
In general, the positives of this sink include:
- Easier installation. Since this sink’s construction is made differently than that of an undermount sink, it is much simpler to install.
- They’re incredibly durable. This is often true regardless of whether they are installed within a kitchen or a bathroom.
- They protect the counter from water damage.
- They don’t take up a bunch of storage space directly underneath the sink.
The Cons
While it would be nice to install a sink that has no flaws, every sink comes with its drawbacks. How severe they are will depend on how you will use your sink/what you want to get out of it. Some of them include:
- A challenge to clean. Since grime and debris can get stuck between the edges of this sink and the counter, it can be a bit harder to maintain.
- The design may be a little uneven. Since this sink works to integrate with your kitchen counter, the edges of this sink may interfere with the levels of your countertops, coming off a bit uneven. Avoiding this is best done by hiring a professional.
- It does not work too well with countertops made of granite.
What is An Under-Mount Sink?
With a meaning based directly off its name, under-mount sinks are installed from underneath one’s counter. With an undermount sink, the edge is fastened underneath the counter and not over top of it.
Just like a top-mount sink, under-mount sinks are installed with special clips that help keep everything in place. Caulk made of silicone will also help to seal off any water that may leak through the sink/countertop. In general, the installation expertise needed for this sink exceeds the experience needed for a top-mount sink. Consequently, it will be a bit more pricey.
The Pros
- Since the edges of this sink are concealed, you get a seamless, smooth, beautiful design that makes the sink look blended in with the rest of the kitchen design.
- You get more counter space with this option since the edges of the sink don’t interfere with the countertop.
- The options of materials to choose from are practically endless.
- The look this sink offers is that of cleanliness and class.
The Cons
- In order for this sink to be properly supported due to its weight, it will require installation with a more durable, strong countertop.
- Since this sink can cause underlying water damage, you will need to install a water resistant countertop in order for this sink to work properly.
- These sinks tend to take up a lot of space underneath (more than top-mount sinks), so storage is often limited.
How Our Team Can Help
Quality renovations don’t come easy if you don’t choose the right experts for the job. Luckily, with the help of our team here at Andre Kitchen and Bath we can bring your home renovations to the next level. To learn more about how you can start a kitchen renovation in Richmond Hill with us, be sure to call our staff at (416)-562-1068 today!
