Undermount vs. Drop-In Kitchen Sink: Buyer's Guide
While the world of kitchen sinks is vast and varied (there are at least ten basic types), for most of our clients, the field narrows down to two: drop-in or under-mount sinks.
At one time, drop-in sinks were your only choice. Even after under-mount sinks hit the market, they remained exotic and premium for many years—more challenging to install and costly to purchase. The only challenge nowadays is choosing which one you want installed in your home.
What Are They
Drop-In
Drop-in sinks, the most well-known variety and still the most prevalent, are also known as top-mount or self-rimming sinks. These sinks have a lip around the perimeter resting flat on the counter. The sink drops into the countertop cut-out, and the lip holds it vertically. Metal clips are hidden underneath, clamp the sink to the counter, and keep the sink from moving horizontally.
Under-mount
They are installed from below the counter, so the rim is concealed beneath it.
More Countertop Space
Select: Undermount
The countertop extends to the sink with under-mount sinks. Undermount is the way to go if you need every square inch of counter real estate.
The drainboard sink is one drop-in sink that could help you utilize more counter space. Typically, one side of the rim extends 8 to 10 inches to form a drainboard (thus the name) or a cutting board in more elaborate versions. This space could be more efficient if you don't have much counter space.
Easy Cleaning
Select: Drop-In
One of the more frustrating things about under-mount sinks is the top of the sink, which joins up with the counter. There is a gap here, and although it is filled with a bead of silicone caulk, it's not 100% filled. A gap remains, and this gap quickly becomes a magnet for food build-up. We advise removing and replacing the caulk every three to five years.
All working areas of a drop-in are visible and accessible. However, keep in mind the small, visible seam created by the lip and the countertop can build up gunk as well, but it's easier to prevent because it's more accessible.
Easy Countertop Cleaning
Select: Under-mount
The apparent victor in this category is the under-mount sink. The number one reason most homeowners choose an undermount sink is because of how easy it is to clean them. There is no lip, so that you can move crumbs directly off the counter into the sink.
Drop-in sinks' rims are too high to allow this. Also, the angle formed between the rim and the countertop can build up with gunk.
The Least Costly
Select: Drop-In
In terms of both supplies and labor, drop-in sinks are more affordable.
More Countertop Material Choices
Select: Drop-In
Undermount sinks can be installed in all types of countertops, but laminate. The laminate materials are not strong enough to hold fasteners without a bolt, nut, or washer. Drop-in sinks can be installed on all types of countertops.
Better Resale Value
Select: Undermount
The type of sinks you have will not, on their own, alter the resale value of your home. Resale value is affected more by significant changes in your home, such as additions, whole-house flooring, or finished rooms, than by single factors such as a kitchen sink, bathroom vanity, or paint color.
That said, the under-mount sink can boost the value more to potential buyers than a drop-in.
