Undermount vs. Drop-In Sinks: Pros, Cons, Installation Considerations, and More
Homeowners looking to start a kitchen remodeling project are initially faced with one big sink decision: undermount vs. drop-in sink. The most traditional type of sink is the drop-in, but over the years, undermount sinks have gained wide popularity and become a great alternative for certain types of kitchens.
Homeowners looking to start a kitchen remodeling project are initially faced with one big sink decision: undermount vs. drop-in sink. The most traditional type of sink is the drop-in, but over the years, undermount sinks have gained wide popularity and become a great alternative for certain types of kitchens.
All About Drop-In Sinks
Drop-in sinks are the classic type of sink that also goes by the name top-mount sink and self-rimming sink. These sinks have a rim that wraps around the countertop and rests on the top of the counter.
One significant benefit of drop-in sinks is that they are easy to clean. All parts of these sinks are visible and accessible, so it’s easier to clean around the sink without a gap that collects grime and food residue. As a general rule, drop-in sinks are easier to install and can often be done without the help of a professional. Also, drop-in sinks are usually less expensive than undermount sinks.
Drop-in sinks work well with all types of countertop materials, including metal, stone, and laminates. Aesthetically, drop-in sinks look best in traditional, vintage, and country kitchens.
All About Undermount Sinks
As the name suggests, an undermount sink is installed from underneath the counter. This sink is unique because its rim is attached to the bottom of the counter and therefore not visible from the top.
Undermount sinks are ideal if you crave more counter space in your kitchen because every extra inch of counter top matters in a small room. Although drop-in sinks are easier to clean than undermount sinks, your countertops are actually easier to clean if you have an undermount sink. This is because you can easily scoop countertop residue right into the sink without a lip to obstruct the process. Undermount sinks typically require professional installation, which can be a deterrent for homeowners on a budget or who have basic DIY skills. However, this cost could be more than made up for later because homes with undermount sinks tend to have a greater resale value due to the high demand for this sink type.
Undermount sinks simply beautiful in a home and really make polished stone countertops look their best. Aesthetically, undermount sinks look great in contemporary and modern kitchens.
Other Sink Considerations
Among the pros and cons of drop-in vs. undermount sink options, it is also important to properly measure your sink size, think about bowl depth, and choose materials and finishes that are easy to clean and maintain. In addition to undermount vs. drop in sinks, you may also consider a front apron/farmhouse sink, corner sink, bar sink, or prep sink for your kitchen.
Choosing Between Drop-In vs. Undermount Sinks in the Tri-State Area
Central Plumbing Specialties is your local specialist in sinks, and we’re here to help you find a sink that you love working with in your kitchen. On our website, we encourage you to search sinks by brand, number of basins, sink shape, material, color, hole count, and other key features. We’re confident you’ll love the sinks we have in stock, so stop by one of our Grand Central Showrooms this weekend to get your kitchen renovation project off the ground.
We have showrooms on Park Avenue, 56th Street, and Bond Street in New York City, as well as locations in Spring Valley and Yonkers. Meanwhile, our Tri-State delivery area includes the five NYC boroughs and the counties of Orange, Rockland, Putnam, Fairfield, Westchester, Bergen, Hudson, Nassau, and Suffolk.