We’ll cover the pros, cons, and need-to-knows to help you decide which sink configuration is best for your kitchen.
Whether you’re planning an entire kitchen remodel or considering replacing your sink, there are three basic sink configurations to choose from: undermount, drop-in, and farmhouse sinks.
Undermount sinks are currently trending in kitchen designs, and it’s easy to see why. While they’re not a new trend, they remain a staple in modern kitchen design. They give kitchens a contemporary, seamless, and beautiful appearance. When undermount sinks started appearing in homes, they were pricey and challenging to install. But now, they are more affordable and widely installed in kitchens of all styles and sizes.
Drop-in sinks, also known as self-rimming or top-mount sinks, are tried-and-trusted classics in the kitchen. They’re the most common type of kitchen sink because they’re very durable and affordable. Though, some designers and interior designers find their construction outdated.
Learn more about the pros, cons, costs, and more to determine which sink configuration is ideal for your kitchen remodel.
Undermount Sinks
Undermount kitchen sinks are mounted underneath the countertop, which creates a seamless transition from the kitchen countertop to the sink. The countertop conceals the edges of the sink, creating an upscale look that many homeowners find attractive. According to design experts, undermount kitchen sinks add value to a home for resale because they’re popular and in demand. In small kitchen spaces, undermount sinks can also help save counter space and prevent you from seeing a pile of dirty dishes.
Pros
- Easier to clean countertops
- Often are higher quality than overmount sinks
- Slightly saves on counter space
- Better resale value
- Sleek, modern design
Cons
- More expensive to install than drop-in sinks
- You need a specific type of countertop
- Debris and mold can grow
They’re More Expensive Due to Installation
While most undermount sinks are similar in cost to drop-in sinks, they tend to be more expensive because of the installation process. On average, installation costs around $230. To install an undermount sink, a custom hole must be cut into the countertop where it will be mounted. Then, the sink is attached underneath the countertop and is held in place by heavy-duty clips, caulk, or an adhesive.
The edges of the countertops are exposed, which is why waterproof countertops—such as granite, quartz, or natural stone—must be used. But undermount sinks don’t need special faucets. Most sinks are designed to work with standard-sized faucets.
They’re More Challenging to Keep Clean
Because there’s no visible lip around an undermount sink, homeowners can easily wipe down countertops and swipe any dirt and debris into the sink. However, undermount sinks themselves are a little more challenging to clean than drop-in sinks. There’s a gap at the top of the top sink where it meets the countertop. While this area is usually filled with caulk, food and debris can still build up in this crevice, and it’s challenging to keep clean. And because water can get between the sink and the counter, mold may grow in this area.
They Can Last for Years With Proper Care
An undermount sink should last for a decade or two, but the sink may need maintenance every few years to prevent bacteria buildup. You should replace the caulk between the gap of the sink and the countertop every three to five years to keep it fresh and clean.
While undermount sinks are unlikely to chip, those mounted with softer countertops can chip where they’re exposed along the side of the undermount sink. If pots or pans hit the edge of the countertop, they may cause cracks or chips. Use caution when washing dishes to prevent potential damage.
They Come in a Variety of Timeless Materials & Configurations
From copper and stainless steel to granite composites and fireclay, undermount kitchen sinks are made in a wide assortment of colors and materials. Choose from single and double basins, various depths, and drain placements to find the best style for your kitchen. Some of the most expensive undermount sinks tend to be made in luxury materials, like copper, high-end stainless steel, and granite composites.
Drop-In Sinks
Drop-in sinks have been used in kitchens for decades. Though in recent years, they’ve become less popular. Top-mount sinks are installed from above—the sink’s edges create a rim around the countertop, which is why they’re sometimes called self-rimmed sinks. However, aesthetically, drop-in sinks are outdated and don’t provide any additional home value. Though some drop-in sinks, like farmhouse sinks, have recently grown in popularity due to the farmhouse trend.
Pros
- Easiest to clean and replace
- Most affordable sink option
- Easier to install than undermount sinks
- Can be installed with almost all countertops
Cons
- Outdated and not as visually desirable
- Don’t add to home value
- More difficult to clean countertops
- Takes up more counter space
- Often are lower quality than undermount sinks
They’re Less Expensive to Install
On average, drop-in sinks cost about $150 to install. During the installation process, a hole is cut into the countertop, and the sink is placed. Then, installers caulk the sink’s edges with silicone. Unlike undermount sinks, top-mount sinks can be installed into a variety of countertop materials, such as laminate, tile, solid surfaces, composite, and natural stone.
Drop-in sinks are also generally more affordable to buy. Prices typically range from $50 to more than $800, depending on the materials, brand, and construction. Solid surface sinks and porcelain enamel styles are usually the most expensive top-mount sink materials.
They’re Easier to Keep Clean
Drop-in kitchen sinks are much easier to keep clean than undermount sinks. All areas of the sink are visible, so you can efficiently clean around the edges and ensure no food or water is left behind. However, there is a small seam formed by the lip and countertop where gunk can build up if it’s not regularly wiped down. The ease of cleaning is why many people choose to include a drop-in sink in their kitchen.
While drop-in sinks are easier to clean than undermount sinks, they make it more challenging to wipe down your countertops. With an undermount sink, you can swipe dirt and food right into your sink, but a drop-in sink’s rim prevents homeowners from doing so.
They Can Last For Many Years Depending on the Materials
According to design experts, stainless steel drop-in sinks can last up to 10 to 15 years, depending on how frequently they’re used and how they’re treated. The gauge and quality of the stainless steel determine how high-quality the sink is. Higher gauge drop-in stainless steel sinks are of lower quality and may not last as long as lower-gauge options. Besides stainless steel, drop-in sinks are also available in fireclay, porcelain, and other materials.
Their Design Can Be Considered Outdated
Some interior designers and experts agree that self-rimming sinks can look outdated, especially lower-end stainless steel models. Stainless steel tends to be the most popular top-mount sink material. However, some styles look beautiful in classic or rustic kitchens, like white farmhouse sinks. These styles are some of the most classic-looking drop-in sinks, and farmhouse sinks last for many years if they’re properly cleaned and cared for. Drop-in sinks best compliment thick and solid wood or granite countertops.
Is It Better to Have an Undermount or Drop-In Sink?
The best kitchen sink for your remodel depends on your style, budget, and countertops. Undermount sinks are a great choice for homeowners who want to highlight their kitchen countertops. If you’re looking to increase your home’s value with a full kitchen remodel, we recommend choosing an undermount sink. These styles are the most desirable and will likely appeal to a wide range of future homeowners.
Top-mount sinks are better for homeowners who love a traditional kitchen look or have a laminate countertop. If you’re considering replacing an old drop-in sink or love the drop-in sink aesthetic, then a drop-in sink may be best for your household.
With proper installation, undermount and drop-in sinks can last for many years. Their lifespan depends on the quality of the sink construction and material. While you should keep kitchen trends in mind, you should also choose a kitchen sink that makes sense for your style and budget.
Can you replace an undermount sink with a drop-in?
Yes, it’s possible to replace an undermount sink with a drop-in. Keep in mind that your installer may need to fill holes in the counter or redo some of the plumbing to ensure it fits. It’s easier to replace an undermount sink with a drop-in than vice versa.
CopperSmith Handcrafts the Best Undermount Sinks
If you’re designing your kitchen remodel with an undermount sink, CopperSmith offers a variety of sustainable sink styles and materials that will complement your countertops and kitchen design. Our custom undermount sinks are the best because they’re handcrafted in North America with long-lasting materials. These are some of our best-selling undermount kitchen sinks:
1. Aged Copper Undermount Sink
This spacious single basin, undermount sink is available in four sizes: 25”, 30”, 33”, and 36”. It’s crafted with a 16-gauge heavy-duty recycled copper that develops a gorgeous patina over time. We recommend pairing this style with an oil-rubbed bronze faucet to match the finish. This copper sink looks beautiful against granite, quartz, and composite countertops.
2. Workstation Undermount Kitchen Sink
For homeowners who are looking to add functional style to their kitchen, our undermount workstation sink features a double basin design and a customizable workstation. During the customization process, choose from the bowl finish, bowl texture, gauge, drain location, width, depth, and more. This custom sink features a 2” rim for style and structure. Our workstation sinks are designed to be installed with an under mount, which allows the rim to sit securely under your countertop.
3. Undermount Bar Sink
Whether you’re planning an entire remodel or redoing part of your kitchen, our undermount bar sink is a must-have addition. Crafted with rustic copper, this style blends luxury and durability to create a sleek addition to your bar. Customers love the copper’s antimicrobial properties, corrosion resistance, and non-toxicity of our construction materials.
4. Undermount Polished Copper Workstation Sink
Make a luxurious statement in your kitchen with our undermount workstation sink in polished copper. Designed with bright, 16-gauge recycled copper, this sink features a long-lasting 33” single basin. The best part of this sink is the unique hammered finish, which will make this sink style a conversation piece in your kitchen. Choose from a variety of functional features and accessories, such as an optional cutting board and rinsing accessories.
Do you have questions about deciding between a drop-in or undermount kitchen sink? Do you want to design a custom sink for your kitchen remodel? Reach out to our team at CopperSmith to receive expert advice. Learn why homeowners, interior designers, and contractors from around the world choose our products again and again.