Undermount Sinks

By: Kitchen Sinks

An undermount sink is a specific design style wherein the basin is mounted beneath the counter top. It is also popularly known as recessed sinks, due to the fact that installation of this type of sink requires the removal of the upper ring.

They are very common in bathrooms and kitchen because of its seamless appearance and because of its very effective use of space. There are many other advantages in using undermount sinks:

- Food, spills or other debris can be easily collected and pushed right into the sink. It leaves a smooth surface that is easy to clean and you need not worry about materials getting trapped on the rim of the sink.
- With undermount sinks, plumbing is generally hid behind the cabinetry so that you do not have to worry about clutter or mess. This invisible advantage makes this the preferred style favored by home makers who like their kitchen and bathroom clean all the time.
- Due to its seamless nature, it does not require that much attention or maintenance efforts. You can just wash it with soap and water, or simply wipe it, and it is mint clean once again.
- Since undermount sinks are installed under a solid surface counter, it will not interrupt the integrity of the design and the style you have thought out for your kitchen or bathroom, nor will it limit your ability to select the color theme. You will have the freedom to design these areas based on your preference.

There is a large collection of undermount sinks and they are available in varied shapes and sizes. The most common size is 22 by 33 inches and width can vary from 12 to 33 inches. There are also single or double bowl types and bowl depths can vary from 5 to 9 inches. Drain locations can be found on either the back or the center of the sink, and accessories such as drain strainers and grates are also available.

The most common undermount sinks are made of stainless steel. The durability and the hygienic benefits of this type of sink is definitely a winning combination. It is also less prone to dents, water spots and scratches.

There is a risk of water damage to counter tops, so undermount sinks are best installed under concrete countertops, granite countertops or other solid surface ones.

Installation of undermount sinks can also be easy. First, you would need to locate the counter top opening. The easiest way for this is to turn your sink upside down on your counter top and find its edges from there. Next, you would need to make a hole in the sink itself. After doing so, you can take your sink faucets and attach them. You only need to make sure that there is no leakage or that it is installed in such a way that leakage would not be possible. Of course, you can have someone else do the installation for you and having a professional install it for you will assure you of best results.