Topmount vs Undermount Kitchen Sink: Which is Right For You?

05 January, 2025

When a person is either building a new kitchen or is planning a remodeling project, choosing the right sink is one of the most important steps. The two most used models of this type of sinks are top mount or also known as the drop in type and the undermount. It is exploiting the fact that each type has various characteristics, strengths as well as weaknesses. In this article we will compare top mount and undermount sinks in order to better understand which one is right for you and your kitchen.

Understanding Top Mount (Drop-In) Sinks

Top-mount or drop-in sinks have the main feature of installation when the outer edge of the sink sits directly on the countertop. This gives the sink the advantage of fitting into a hole that must be created in the countertop upon delivery of the sink fixture.

Top Mount (Drop-In) Sinks

Common Materials Used in Top Mount Sinks

1. Stainless Steel

2. Porcelain

3. Quartz

4. Cast Iron

Installation Process

Simple Installation: Top-mount sinks can be installed with less complex than that of the undermounting Sinks. The installer only has to open the space just slightly smaller than the size of the sink that is to be installed.
Design Features: Featuring adjustable heights and made of a wide choice of materials and designs, top-mount sinks suit any kitchen type. Though, the shining edge may not satisfy those customers, who expect to have a smooth line on the cutting board.

Exploring Undermount Sinks

Undermount kitchen sinks are those in which the sink is fitted below the countertop so that there is no rim to jut out and interrupt the flow of the countertop surface. This design augments the look and utility of a product.

Undermount Sinks

Common Materials Used in Undermount Sinks

1. Stainless Steel

2. Fireclay

3. Quartz Composite

4. Copper

Installation Overview

Professional Installation Recommended: Undermount sinks are a beautiful, elegant look; however, proper installation may cause leaks: It is recommended that they be installed by professionals.
Seamless Design: These sinks come in a very smooth design where there is no rim that is in sight thus giving every home the modern looking feel that people want.

Top Mount vs Undermount Sinks: Key Differences

Here is a comparison of the key differences between Top Mount and Undermount sinks in table format:

Feature	Topmount Sink	Undermount Sink
Installation	Sits on top of the countertop, with the edges visible.	Installed beneath the countertop, with edges hidden.
Appearance	Traditional, visible rim adds dimension.	Sleek, modern, and clean look with no visible rim.
Ease of Installation	Easier to install, requires less precision.	Requires more precise installation and a level countertop.
Compatibility	Suitable for most countertops, including laminate.	Best with solid surface, granite, or quartz countertops.
Cost	Typically less expensive and budget-friendly.	More expensive due to installation complexity and aesthetics.
Style	Works well in traditional and casual kitchen styles.	Ideal for modern, minimalist, and high-end kitchen designs.
Edge Finish	The countertop’s edge is visible, which may require extra finishing.	The countertop edge is hidden beneath the sink.

Pros and Cons of Top Mount (Drop-In) Sinks

Advantages

Ease of Installation: Top-mount sinks are best suited for do-it-yourself undertakings since they’re easy to incorporate into your home, and they could be cheap.
Compatibility: It has been used effectively with many kinds of counter top materials such as laminate and solid surface.
Affordability: Usually they are cheaper compared to undermount varieties, not just the material necessary for their construction, but for installation as well.

Disadvantages

Grime Accumulation: The rim will entice dirt and debris hence getting dirty frequently than the undermount sinks.
Counter Space Usage: The visible lip also means development of extra counter space which might be a problem in modern kitchens that are small.

Pros and Cons of Undermount Sinks

Advantages

Enhanced Aesthetics: The lack of gaps in the installation results to a more modern kitchen style and actually enhances the appearance of the kitchen.
Easy Cleaning: Since debris does not get stuck around the rim, a cook can move dirt and crumbs straight into the sink.
Maximized Counter Space: It makes more counter space available to be used, and there is no lip to obscure the view of things placed on it.

Disadvantages

Complex Installation: Needs more effort during installation process and frequently one needs the help of a specialist.
Higher Cost: Generally more costly than the top-mounted type because of the material and work involved in installation.

Making Your Decision: Choosing the Right Sink for Your Kitchen Style

Choosing between a top mount and undermount sink depends on several factors:

Top Mount vs Undermount Sinks

Countertop Material: Like all undermount sinks, the materials used here need to be strong and resistant; granite or quartz sink is recommended.
Aesthetics vs. Functionality: Think about what do you value more, minimalist aesthetic or possibility to easily install the canopy.
Budget Constraints: Evaluate what materials you will be able to afford today and the cost of putting up the whole system.
DIY Capabilities: If you intend to do it yourself, topmount sink may be more preferable than the undermount type.
Lifestyle Needs: Consider how frequently do you cook and clean.
High Traffic Kitchens: Top-mount sinks are more resilient and easier to replace too.

Explore Kitchen Sink Collection

Conclusion

It is recommended to go for the top-mount kitchen sink if you are operating under a limited budget, while the undermount kitchen sink will be the best choice if you prefer style and need easy cleaning. Top-mount sinks are cheap, easy to fit and available in a wide range of designs thus appropriate for standard kitchens. While, undermount are more contemporary in appearance and provide more space on the countertops but cost significantly more at the start.

The experts at MeganCera think that there must be a perfect sink in every kitchen; therefore, they present to you several models to fit your style and needs.