Undermount Sink and Overmount Sink Differences
If you are planning out a resin countertop for your school or laboratory, chances are good that that countertop will require the installation of one or more sinks. And while there are several variables to consider when choosing a sink, one of the major things to decide on first is whether you want an undermount or an overmount sink to complete your laboratory setup. There are plenty of undermount sink vs overmount sink considerations to think of. Below are some of the pros and cons of each.
Pros of an Undermount Sink
As the name suggests, undermount sinks are installed by mounting the sink bowl beneath the countertop surface. This configuration has a few different advantages. Epoxy resin sinks undermount can easily combine multiple sink bowls. This means that you can have a multi-compartment sink installed fairly easily.
Because of the relatively simple installation process involved with undermount sinks, they are easy and less expensive to replace.
Undermount sinks are known for their durability and longevity. But if your lab deals with liquid nitrogen or especially corrosive chemicals, damage to epoxy resin sinks undermount is entirely possible. This is where one of the more crucial undermount vs overmount sink differences comes into play. Because of the relatively simple installation process involved with undermount sinks, they are easy and less expensive to replace.
Cons of an Undermount Sink
No undermount vs overmount sink comparison is complete without a mention of cons. And while undermount sinks are a great choice for many, they are not without disadvantages. One possible con of undermount sinks is the fact that there are generally none that are ADA-compliant. This is due to the fact that all undermount sinks require sink supports for installation. The sink-support requirement makes installation a bit more time-consuming.
Pros of an Overmount Sink
Overmount sinks, which are also called drop-in sinks, are another popular choice for school or laboratory sinks. And if you’re pressed for time or on an installation budget, overmount sinks are ideal. This is because they are the easier of the types to install.
With an overmount sink, all that’s needed for installation is to drop the sink through a cut in the countertop. The sink is then sealed – no sink supports are needed. Overmount sinks tend to be easier to keep clean, too, so there’s less chance of mold and bacterial growth.
Cons of an Overmount Sink
While epoxy resin sinks overmount installation is usually simple the first time around, one of the most notable cons of this setup is the difficulty of replacing many overmount sinks. In theory, replacing epoxy resin sinks overmount is simple – you remove one sink, drop in another, and you’re finished.
However, most manufacturers recommend sealing these sinks with epoxy resin adhesive, and this adhesive makes replacing an existing sink very challenging. Another possible disadvantage, depending on the type of sink configuration you want, is the fact that you cannot glue two overmount sinks together. If having multiple sink bowls per sink is vital to the functioning of your lab or classroom, this may prove to be one of the more important undermount vs overmount sink differences for you.
If you are planning out the installation of an entire lab, undermount sink vs overmount sink comparisons may seem like only one small detail. But having the right sink in your lab will ensure that everyone is as productive and safe as possible. If you have any remaining questions about the undermount vs overmount sink comparison, feel free to contact us – one of our experts will be happy to assist you in deciding which sink type will be best for your current or future laboratory setup.
Curious about purchasing details?
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any aesthetic differences between undermount and overmount sinks?
Yes, undermount sinks provide a seamless look from countertop to sink, giving a clean and modern appearance. Overmount sinks, on the other hand, have a lip over the edge of the countertop which can provide a more traditional look.
Do undermount and overmount sinks require different types of countertops?
Generally, both sink types can be used with any countertop material. However, undermount sinks need a countertop with a solid surface like epoxy resin, granite, or solid wood, as the edge of the countertop will be visible. When considering an undermount sink with an epoxy resin countertop, some facts about epoxy resin sinks may come in handy. For instance, epoxy resin is non-porous, highly resistant to heat and chemicals, making it an excellent choice for undermount sinks.
Is one type of sink typically more expensive than the other?
Prices can fluctuate depending on the specific sink model and installation expenses. In general, undermount sinks may cost more due to a more intricate installation process and the need for added sink support. When weighing these costs, you also have to keep in mind the pros and cons of using epoxy resin vs. stainless steel sink.
How does the choice between an undermount and overmount sink impact cleaning and maintenance?
Overmount sinks might collect debris around the rim, requiring more careful cleaning. Undermount sinks allow you to wipe debris directly from the countertop into the sink without a lip getting in the way, making them easier to clean.
Can I switch from an overmount sink to an undermount sink (or vice versa) without changing the countertop?
Switching sink types often require modification or replacement of the countertop. This is due to the different cut-out and support requirements of each type of sink. Always consult with a professional before attempting such a change.
