When remodeling or building a new kitchen, one of the many decisions that need to be made is what type of sink to install. The two most popular options are top mount (also known as drop-in) sinks and undermount sinks. Both have their advantages and disadvantages in terms of aesthetics, ease of installation, maintenance, durability, and cost. This article will compare top mount vs undermount sinks to help you determine which is the better choice for your needs.
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What is a Top Mount Sink?
A top mount sink, as the name implies, is installed from above the counter. The rim of the sink rests on top of the counter, while the basin drops down into the counter opening. Top mount sinks are often made of stainless steel, enameled cast iron, solid surface materials, or fireclay. They are commonly paired with a deck plate (the metal rim around the sink opening) or spray coating to give them a finished look.
Top mount sinks have been around for decades and remain a very popular style. The main benefits of this type of sink include:
- Easy installation – Top mount sinks simply drop into the prepared counter opening and seal to the countertop. No special fasteners or adhesive is needed in most cases.
- Classic look – The rim resting on the counter gives a very traditional appearance that fits well with many kitchen designs.
- Affordability – On average, top mount sinks cost less than undermount sinks.
- More durable – With the sink basin supported by the countertop edges, top mount sinks are typically more resistant to cracks and damage.
What is an Undermount Sink?
As the name suggests, an undermount sink is installed from beneath the counter. The rim of the sink is positioned under the counter edge, creating a seamless transition from countertop to sink basin. Undermount sinks are made from similar materials as top mount sinks, most commonly stainless steel. However, the installation method allows for a sleek, contemporary look.
Benefits of undermount sinks include:
- Seamless appearance – The lack of rim on the countertop has a very smooth, integrated look.
- Easy cleaning – With no lip to catch crumbs or dirt, undermount sinks can be wiped clean in one sweep.
- Flexible counter material – Undermount installation works with solid surface, quartz, granite, and other countertop materials besides laminate.
- Durable materials – Undermount sinks are commonly made of heavy-gauge stainless steel that resists scratches and dents.
Aesthetic Differences
One of the biggest differences between undermount and top mount sinks is visual appeal. Undermount sinks have a very streamlined, contemporary look as they sit flush with the counter. They create an upscale, seamless design. Top mount sinks have a more traditional appearance with the lip resting visibly on the countertop.
| Undermount Sink | Top Mount Sink |
|---|---|
| Sleek and contemporary | Traditional appearance |
| Seamless transition from countertop to sink | Visible sink rim on countertop |
| Works well with solid surface, quartz, granite, etc. | Best for laminate countertops |
| Integrated look | Separate look |
While undermount sinks undoubtedly have a more seamless, built-in look, top mount sinks have a classic charm that fits well with many design aesthetics. It comes down to personal style preference.
Ease of Installation
Installation is another area where undermount and top mount sinks differ. Top mount sinks are generally very easy for DIY-ers to install. You simply cut the appropriately sized hole in your countertop material, set the sink in place, and seal around the rim. Most top mount sinks come with a template to help you cut the opening accurately.
Undermount sinks require a bit more effort to install properly. Since the sink rim is mounted under the counter, you need to create a precise cutout hole and fasten the sink from below. Professional-grade adhesives and specialty fasteners are often used to reinforce the connection. The flush installation and lack of deck plate also means the countertop edge needs to have a finished look.
For most homeowners, a top mount sink is the easier DIY installation option. But undermount sinks aren’t necessarily difficult for an experienced contractor to install. Just be prepared for a little more time, effort, and cost for the undermount installation.
Ease of Installation Comparison
| Top Mount | Undermount | |
|---|---|---|
| DIY Installation | Easy | Moderate difficulty |
| Professional Installation | Very easy | Slightly more difficult |
Maintenance and Durability
No one wants to choose a sink that will be a pain to keep clean or start showing wear and tear after a few years. So maintenance and durability are important factors to weigh.
Top mount sinks tend to be more durable over time. With the sink rim sitting atop the counter, the basin is fully supported to prevent cracks and leaks. Constant water exposure can start to damage the caulking around the rim, but this is an easy fix. Top mount sinks made of enameled cast iron or fireclay hold up especially well.
Undermount sinks put more strain on the attachment points below the counter. Heavy pots and pans can increase the risk of cracking or gradual loosening over time. Stainless steel undermount sinks are very durable, but regular maintenance is required to prevent corrosion and rust around the drain. Water damage is also a bigger issue with undermount installations.
For ease of cleaning, undermount sinks provide a slight advantage. Food and grime can build up in the lip area of a top mount sink. Undermount sinks offer a smooth transition for wiping away messes. But for overall durability, top mount sinks are generally the more robust choice.
Maintenance and Durability Comparison
| Top Mount | Undermount | |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Very durable | Moderate durability |
| Ease of Cleaning | Moderate | Very easy |
| Risk of Damage | Low | Moderate risk |
Cost Comparison
There is often a clear price difference when comparing top mount and undermount sinks. Top mount styles tend to cost $100-300 on average. Simple stainless steel top mount sinks can be found for under $200. Undermount sinks usually range from $200 on the low end up to $700 or more for large, premium sinks.
Keep in mind that the install costs may also be higher for an undermount sink given the more complex process. But the material and labor required for a granite, quartz, or solid surface countertop will be a major portion of your budget regardless of the sink type.
If maximizing your budget is a priority, a top mount sink is likely the more affordable choice. The simple stainless steel variety keeps material and installation costs down. But for a sleek, contemporary kitchen design, the streamlined look of an undermount sink may justify the higher price point.
Pros and Cons Comparison
| Top Mount | Undermount | |
|---|---|---|
| Pros |
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| Cons |
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Conclusion
So which is better – a top mount or undermount kitchen sink? The answer depends on your priorities.
If you want a classic look with easy maintenance and install, a durable top mount sink is likely the best fit. Opt for an enameled cast iron or fireclay version for maximum longevity.
For a contemporary kitchen with a streamlined, built-in look that matches the latest trends, an undermount sink is your best bet. Be prepared to pay a higher cost but enjoy the seamless appearance. Stainless steel models provide sparkling durability.
Consider how you use your kitchen, your design style, and your budget. For serious cooks and busy families, a top mount sink may be the wiser call. Fashion-forward renovators will appreciate an undermount sink’s wow factor. With the pros and cons of each option weighed, you can decide whether top mount or undermount makes sense for your kitchen.