Undercounter kitchen sinks are one of the most popular installation methods for kitchen sinks for a number of reasons. An undercounter kitchen sink can bring a modern and aesthetically pleasing streamlined style to your kitchen.
As the popularity increases, so do the options available in the market. You can choose from a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials for undercounter sinks. The options may seem endless, but we’ll list all the factors to help you choose the right kitchen undercounter sink for you.
What Is an Undercounter Kitchen Sink?
An undercounter kitchen sink is a sink that is installed under the countertop. The sink must be secured under the counter with a bracket and silicone adhesive. These brackets are secured by adhesives such as bolts or epoxy. This type of installation requires a sturdy surface to support. Countertops with weak spots such as laminate or tiles are not best suited for undermount kitchen sinks.
With this installation, the edges of the countertop are constantly exposed to water. This means that the best suited countertops with exposed edges are those like marble and granite that can be polished and sealed so that water is not an issue.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Undercounter Kitchen Sinks
Undercounter kitchen sinks have certain advantages over other sinks. However, there are some drawbacks that you should consider before deciding if this is the right sink for your type of sink.
Advantages
- Sleek design – An undercounter kitchen sink creates a clean line of sight along the countertop and minimizes visual distractions for a cleaner appearance.
- Continuous flow – no troublesome lip edges on the edge of the sink. You can clean the countertop by wiping the breadcrumbs directly into the sink.
- Easy to maintain – Countertops have no edges to accumulate sand particles, making it easier to keep kitchen and sink areas clean.
- Resale – Buyers love undercounter kitchen sinks, so this is a great way to increase the resale value of your home.
Disadvantages
- Cost – Undercounter kitchen sinks and their installation costs are higher than standard built-in sink options.
- Installation – Installation of an undercounter kitchen sink is more difficult because the holes on the countertop must be precise, not the rough cut holes of the recessed sink. In addition, undercounter sinks require additional brackets and seals to support their weight and secure the water in the openings.
- Countertop Restrictions – Some types of countertops are better suited for undercounter sinks. These include natural stone countertops such as marble and granite. Light-colored countertops are not suitable for undermount sinks.
- Replacement – Since the holes are custom cut, it is more difficult to replace the undercounter sink. Choose the best quality undercounter kitchen sink you can afford so you don’t need to replace it.
Undercounter Kitchen Sink Configuration
You can find undercounter kitchen sinks in a variety of shapes and configurations for both large and small kitchens. There are three main configurations: single, double, and triple basin options.
- Undercounter Single Kitchen Sink – The undercounter single bowl kitchen sink comes with a large basin. These are good options if you clean large pots and pans regularly. This type of sink doesn’t take up as much space as a double and triple basin sink, so you can have a larger sink in a smaller area. A drain plate sink is an effective single-basin kitchen sink because it gives you an area to put your washed dishes without getting the countertops wet.
- Double-Counter Kitchen Sink – A double-bowl double-bowl double-counter kitchen sink has two basins, sometimes the same size, but it can also be one larger than the other. So you can divide and conquer, wash on one side and rinse on the other. These are large undercounter sink options, the smallest of which is about 26 inches long (edge-to-edge).
- Undercounter Triple Kitchen Sink – The undercounter triple kitchen sink comes with three basins of different sizes. In general, the middle part between the two larger basins on the side is small.
Undercounter Kitchen Sink Cost
There are two costs to an undercounter kitchen sink, the first is the purchase of the sink and the second is the installation. The price of an undercounter kitchen sink varies depending on the material and size. According to Home Advisor, some of the cheapest materials used for undercounter kitchen sinks are acrylic, composite stone, stainless steel, and porcelain. These range from $90 to $1,500. The most expensive options for undercounter kitchen sinks include natural stone and copper sinks. These range from $400 to $4,000.
Unless you have some experience, installing an undercounter kitchen sink isn’t a DIY project. Installing an undercounter kitchen sink by a professional can cost between $240 and $1,500, depending on the time required.
The Material of the Undercounter Kitchen Sink
Since kitchen undercounter sinks are popular, you can choose from a variety of materials depending on your budget, kitchen style, and level of use.
Stainless Steel Undercounter Kitchen Sink
Undercounter stainless steel kitchen sink options have been a staple of home design for decades because they are attractive and easy to maintain. Stainless steel undercounter sinks are also one of the most affordable options. Not only are these sinks a budget option for a single purchase, but they’re resistant to rust, corrosion, heat, and high impact, meaning you can keep these sinks for many years.
Stainless steel sinks are available in a variety of colors and finishes. Look for a 16-18 gauge stainless steel sink, which is the most durable sink. Stainless steel undercounter sinks are one of the lightest options and are easier to install than sinks made of heavy gravity materials.
Cast Iron Undercounter Sink
Cast iron undercounter sinks are one of the most durable and classic options for undercounter sinks. The cast iron surface is coated with enamel, giving the sink a silky smooth and durable surface. The porcelain surface is non-porous and durable, so it can resist scratches and staining for a while. The cast iron base is one of the strongest bases.
Cast iron undercounter sinks are heavy and require additional structural support for installation. Porcelain enamel can stain and scratch after years of use.
Ceramic Undercounter Kitchen Sink
Solid porcelain and enamel steel undermount sinks have similar appeal to classic cast iron sinks, but are lighter and easier to install. Although enamel sinks are more durable than solid porcelain sinks, ceramic sinks remain in good condition over time.
Ceramic sinks are easy to maintain, but they can be easily damaged if abrasive cleaners are used. Porcelain is also prone to chipping if a heavy object falls on it, but it is resistant to heat. Color options for porcelain include white undercounter kitchen sink and black undercounter kitchen sink options.
Refractory Clay Undercounter Kitchen Sink
If you want a sink that is more durable and has the same style, refractory clay undercounter sinks are a good alternative to porcelain. Refractory clay sinks are fired to a much higher degree to create a harder surface. They are scratch-resistant, stain-resistant, heat-resistant, and more. They are also non-porous, which makes them easier to care for over time.
Refractory clay undercounter sinks have a classic and timeless look, but are available in a limited range of sizes and colors. They are heavy and require additional structural support to fit underneath. Refractory clay sinks are one of the more expensive options for undercounter kitchen sinks.
Composite Quartz Undercounter Sink
Quartz is an artificial stone that is made by combining ground natural quartz with resin. This creates a surface that looks both natural and beautiful. Quartz is great for sinks because it’s non-porous and resistant to scratches and stains. Quartz sinks absorb more sound, making them one of the quietest sink options.
Natural Stone Undercounter Sink
If you like the look of natural stone, you can find undercounter kitchen sink options made from a variety of natural materials, including granite, marble, soapstone, and quartzite. Almost all natural stone is porous, which means you’ll need to keep the surface sealed to prevent the sink from staining and absorbing moisture.
Natural stone undercounter sinks like farmhouse sinks give a gorgeous feel, but they are also expensive. These sinks are also heavy and require additional cabinet support.
Granite Composite Undercounter Sink
Manufacturers create granite composite sinks by combining granite particles with resin binders. This creates a durable sink that is cheaper than a natural granite sink. Granite composite undercounter sinks are a mid-priced option that allows you to strike a balance between the longevity and aesthetics of natural stone. They are non-porous, heat-resistant, hygienic and easy to maintain.
Copper Undermount Sink
Copper undercounter sinks are a new sink option that has grown in popularity over time. Copper sinks are non-porous, so they are hygienic and easy to maintain. They are resistant to staining and scratching, and their thick specifications are resistant to dents caused by heavy objects.
Copper kitchen sinks are easy to maintain with a simple waxing and polishing, but over time, they develop a patina. The main disadvantage of copper sinks is the cost, as they are often one of the more expensive undercounter kitchen sink options.
Acrylic Undermount Sink
Acrylic undercounter sinks are made of sturdy acrylic resin, which manufacturers make into durable and sturdy products. While these sinks are durable, this durability can’t be compared to stronger materials like refractory clay and stainless steel. Compared to other materials, this is a lightweight undermount sink that is easier to install.
The use of certain chemicals may damage the acrylic sink. Heating may also damage the finish, so you should avoid putting the hot pot inside the sink.
Which Undercounter Kitchen Sink Is Best for You?
If you’re still not sure which type of undercounter kitchen sink is best for you, ask yourself these questions.
- What is the overall activity level of my kitchen? If your home kitchen is an active and busy place with a lot of people using the sink, a durable undercounter sink option is the best option. Choose a sink made of stainless steel, composite quartz, composite granite, or refractory clay for the most durable option.
- What’s my budget? Undercounter sinks aren’t much more expensive than other varieties of sinks, but they can cost more to install. For undercounter sink options on a budget, choose smaller sizes and materials such as acrylic, stainless steel, composite stone, or porcelain. These sinks are lighter than natural stone and are more budget-conscious.
- What is my favorite material? If possible, preferences should always play a role in your sink decisions. Preferences will determine the material you choose as well as the number of pots and the style of the sink, including farmhouse sink styles and more traditional options.
- Is there a warranty on the sink I’m considering? Some sink options will come with a warranty. This will allow you to try a certain style or material and make up for the damage or make it easier for you to return your product.
- How many basins are best in my kitchen? Some basin styles are better suited for certain types of food preparation and dishwashing. If you’re making a lot of big-ticket dishes, consider using large pots. More pots require a larger area, but these can help you separate food preparation and dishwashing.
