Kitchen Sinks: Undermount & Top Mount

Hangs beneath the solid surface counter-top

Placed into the hole that has been cut out from the counter-top

Has a minimalist and streamlined appearance, its rims are hidden under the counter-top so you get up to a square foot of extra space

Its rims rest visibly on the surface of the counter-top, but the sink doesn't look as elegant and aerodynamic as the under-mount.

Easy maintenance, as there is a continuous flow from counter-top to sink so you can simply sweep food scraps or water into the basin

Gunk may accumulate around the rims so homeowners have to be diligent about cleaning.

Not recommended for laminate or tile counters as there are too many weak points along their seams or gout lines

Suitable for any surface and is not limited by the size of the cabinet, it also protects the edges of your counter-top especially if it's made from a delicate material like marble

Installation is more difficult due to the need for proper support and sealing

Easier to install as it's considered the ideal method that meets simple sink requirements

More difficult to replace at a later date as the hole that has been cut from the counter-top is made to fit your first sink perfectly, so make sure you get a quality sink the first time!

Easy to replace since it's just a matter of lifting it from the hole, instead from under like the under-mount

Slightly pricier than the top mount

Less expensive than the under-mount