Is my sink an undermount?

A drop-in sink has a visible lip around its perimeter that rests flat on the countertop. An undermount sink does have a rim, but the rim is not visible because it rests up against the bottom of the counter. The edge of the countertop along the sink cutout is entirely exposed.

Are undermount sinks different?

Undermount sinks are the opposite of top-mount sinks, as the sink is attached to the bottom of the counter with special clips. Undermount sinks allow you to sweep countertop water and crumbs straight into the sink with a sponge. These sinks have no rim to get in the way, making clean up a charm.

How do I know what type of kitchen sink I have?

The model number is located on the underside of the sink, either molded into the sink material or stamped with ink. Typically the model number starts with a K, such as K-5942. In some cases, the model number is preceded by 97 or 87.

Can you make any sink an undermount?

Despite much disapproval from sink experts that drop-in sinks are impossible to undermount, the job is actually possible. Usually, undermount sinks are used for this purpose; however, a drop-in sink can also be placed under the countertop to fit it like an undermount sink. There are, however, some disadvantages.

Are undermount sinks a good idea?

If you use an undermount sink, you won’t have the edge of the sink to get in the way of potential counter space. However, if you already have a countertop that works well with an undermount sink and you are looking for something beautiful and easy to clean, this type of sink may be just perfect for your kitchen.

Which is the best undermount kitchen sink to buy?

Aside from sanitation purposes, they also tend to look more sophisticated and sleek, while saving you valuable counter space. Undermount sinks come in an array of different materials, such as stainless steel, copper, granite, and more.

What’s the difference between an under mount sink and a bottom mount sink?

Undermount sinks are mounted literally under the counter. They don’t have rims the fit over the top of the counter; instead the counter serves as the rim. These are also called bottom-mount sinks. Undermount sinks can be made from common sink materials like stainless steel or from molded composites.

How did the undermount kitchen sink get its name?

The name comes from the fact that they’re installed under the counter, rather than being placed into a pre-cut hole in the countertop. The benefit of this style is that you don’t have to deal with a lip on the rim of the sink, which can gather all kinds of dirt and unhealthy bacteria.

Can a under mount sink be made of cast iron?

Undermount sinks can be made from common sink materials like stainless steel or from molded composites. Cast iron is a little less common because of the weight. Home Depot notes that if you have a laminate countertop, an undermount sink will not be appropriate because of how the edges of the laminate countertop are fashioned.