Overmount Sink

• An overmount sink is where the edges of the sink are placed on the countertop. The weight of the sink is supported solely by the countertop.
  
  

Undermount Sink

• Undermount sinks are a newer concept but have become increasingly popular. This sink is installed below the counter; instead of the countertop supporting its weight, it is held in place by a strong adhesive or silicone caulk.
  
  

Pros of an Overmount Sink

• An overmount kitchen sink is not limited by the size of the cabinet. These sinks can help protect the edges of the countertop if it is made from a delicate material such as marble or quartz. This type of sink is also easier to install and less expensive than an undermount kitchen sink. Most of the time, an overmount sink can be installed by the homeowner because it just involves dropping it into the hole in the countertop and securing it with clamps.
  
  

Cons of an Overmount Sink

• One downside to an overmount sink is that because the upper lip of the sink covers the edge of the countertop, it does not have as neat an appearance as an undermount sink. Food and other debris can also get caught under the edges of the sink and bacteria can grow under there. They also do not have as elegant of an appearance as undermount sinks.
  
  

Pros of an Undermount Sink

• An advantage to installing an undermount sink is that it has a cleaner appearance than overmount sinks since the edges are hidden beneath the countertop. Food and other particles also do not get caught underneath the edges as they do with an overmount sink; this makes clean-up much easier.
  
  

Cons of an Undermount Sink

• One disadvantage to undermount sinks is that because the sink has no edges, if you fill the sink all the way to the top, it can overflow onto the countertop. Also, the adhesives or silicone caulk that secure the sink are not waterproof and if they get wet, could loosen your sink.
  
  Since undermount sinks are installed below the countertop, it is important to have a countertop made of a strong material, such as stone or granite. This type of countertop is more expensive than laminate.
  
  It is important that undermount sinks are installed correctly; because they fit underneath the sink, you may want a professional to complete the installation. This is more costly than doing the job yourself.