Ultimate Guide To An Undermount Sink

A sink is an essential item in a kitchen, bathroom, or wet bar. Sinks come in a range of materials, styles, and designs that you have to consider when selecting yours. Another important aspect not to ignore when selecting a sink is the installation process with options including undermount and top mount. This article has all you should know about an undermount sink.

Understanding an undermount sink

Unlike a drop-in sink, an undermout sink is installed from below the countertop. Undermount sinks have a rim attaching to the counter bottom making it invisible. The sink is held in place by anchors and clips, high strength epoxy, and silicone caulk. An undermount sink is affordable depending on the sink size and material.

Undermount sinks are growing in popularity for their seamless appearance and functionality. When looking forward to a sleek and uncluttered countertop space for easy cleanup, an undermount sink is a wonderful choice. Always seek assistance from a professional to handle the installation process of your sink. The installation process should consider cabinet materials and other details specific to your project.

How to install an undermount sink

An undermount sink is different from other sinks for sitting below the countertop in the kitchen or bathroom. Proper installation and sealing if the best undermount sinks are necessary for appropriate support. This also limits the chances of leakage. A professional installer will apply appropriate supports to keep the sink in place and to back the counter hold the sink weight safely.

The edge lip of this sink is mounted below the counter to make the sink hang underneath your countertop. This encourages continuous flow from the counter into the sink. Attempting to do it yourself when installing an undermount sink is a bad idea. A professional install will come with experience and expertise to install your sink in less than 30 minutes.

Steps to install an undermount kitchen sink

Build a frame inside the cabinet

An undermount sink can have substantial weight especially the double basin model. This is ideal for holding various large dishes, pans, and pots. Therefore, the installer should build a boxed-in or cleated frame inside the cabinets. This is to support the undermount sink rim. Installing an undermount sink is different from mounting other sinks that require adhering the sink rim to the countertop with epoxy directly.

The cleat is placed to allow the top rim of the sink to perfectly flush when positioned on the walls of the cabinet. Your countertop will lie atop the sink. The top rim should perfectly fit flat before placing the sink on the cleats. Turning the sink on a flat surface might be necessary requiring using a rubber mallet for tapping into the metal to meet the floor.

Make a hole in the countertop

For a handcrafted sink, wait for it to become hard before a cut is made in the countertop without using a standard template. Ensure the hole cut has the right size since artisan products need tolerance of about 1/2 inch length and width. Contact a professional installer to cut the hole in the countertop that will accommodate your sink and fixtures like a faucet.

Clean all materials

Before the installation process, everything should be clean. This requires wiping down the bottom and top edges of the countertop and the sink. A clean environment is necessary because the silicone sealant doesn’t stick well on dirt and dust. Keeping everything is very important to ensure a secure seal for your undermount sink installation.

Place the undermount sink

This is the moment to place the undermount sink on the cleats in the cabinet. Perhaps the rim needs drilling and cutting. A gap of about 3/4 inches is necessary between the cut and seam or weld in your sink. Drilling through the sink rim might be necessary to secure the sink to the cleat. This will ensure that your undermount sink remains intact for long.

Place the countertop on top

With the undermount sink positioned appropriately on the cleats and dust wiped away, it is time to apply clear silicone around the top rim of the sink. Afterward, lay the countertop carefully on the sink top. Wipe away excess silicone from underneath. A professional installer understands the right way to apply silicone and appropriate drying time before using the sink.

Benefits to opt for Undermount sink

• More counter space

• Ideal for a tiny kitchen

• Quick installation process

• Easier to place faucets anywhere

• Cleaning the countertop is easy without obstruction

• Better resale value for your home for an upscale look

Wrapping up

With a range of options on the market, stainless undercount sinks are a wonderful choice. These sinks are easier to install, clean, and ideal for tiny kitchens. The versatility and durability of stainless steel blends with the upscale look of an undermount sink to give your home an upscale look.