Difference between Top-Mount and Under-Mount Sinks

Choosing between under-mount and top-mount for your kitchen sink can be confusing.

Here's what you need to know:

Top-Mount Sinks

In a top-mount sink, the lip extends over the benchtop. Sinks rest on benchtops with a lip that holds them in place. Sinks typically come with an inset bowl and a lip around the edge or outline. The lip on top-mount sinks prevents them from falling straight through a cut-out hole in a benchtop.

Pros:

• Protect The Bench Top's Edges: With top-mount sinks, the edges are made of stainless steel, which is less likely to damage over time.
• Easier To Install:Installation is easier since you don't have to be as precise as with an under-mount installation.
• Cheaper To Install: It is more accessible and cheaper to install.
• Easier To Replace: When you replace a top-mount sink, it's easier. Choose a sink that fits a larger hole than the existing one.
• Less Gunk Build-Up:Compared to under-mount sinks, top-mount sinks are easier to clean because you can access the whole sink surface and all its edges.

Cons:

• Be Careful Of Pressed Sinks:Builders love top-mount sinks because they are affordable and usually made as pressed sinks. Still usable, but less durable, noisier, and less stylish.

Under-Mount Sinks

The lip of the under-mount sink is below the benchtop, so it hangs onto the top instead of sitting on it. The sink lip is sandwiched between the bench top and the support substrate because of the need for a substrate. Once that is done, the stone mason creates a sink opening.

Pros:

• Look Sleeker:You can maximize your benchtop with under-mount sinks because they make it appear that the benchtop flows into the kitchen sink, rather than being two separate pieces of equipment. In terms of look and feel, it is preferred.

Cons:

• Not Recommended For Laminate Or Wooden Bench Tops:You should not under-mount your sink if you have a laminate or wooden benchtop since the edges will constantly be exposed to water, causing damage over time.
• Mostly Handmade:These days, most under-mount stainless steel sinks are handmade; some sellers will push-press sinks because they are cheaper. Despite its lower quality, they'll convince you it's better priced.
• Require More Planning:Under-mount sinks require more planning because a substrate must be made to support the sink.

So Which Should We Choose?

Choosing the right sink type depends on your lifestyle, your usage, or your kitchen's style. Consider these points and follow these recommendations.

• Pots and pans:You should consider a top mount if you clean pots and pans often and you have a large family because knocks on the edge might chip it over time.
• Beauty in the benchtop:Under-mount sinks complement beautiful benchtops and excellent stones. Having the sink out of sight will allow more benchtop to be shown.
• Hate cleaning:You should get a top-mount sink if you don't like cleaning and you'd rather get out of the kitchen as soon as possible.