FAQs for Undermount Sink Installation

Can an undermount sink be used with laminate?

Laminate has come a long way since it first made an appearance in the late 70s. Its new and intricate designs are capable of mimicking more expensive countertop options including marble, making it an ideal choice for affordable home renovation.
However, using laminate with undermount sink poses a few problems.

The laminate itself is not an issue, the particleboard underneath is where the problem lies. Particle board and all other wood substructures are not waterproof. When the hole is cut through the laminated counter for your sink, you will expose the wood substructure of your counter top. The challenge is how provide a waterproof and visually appealing finish over the exposed wood substructure between the sink and top laminate. If water penetrates into the wood through the corner seams, expansion and warping of the wood will occur and your counter will eventually be ruined. A drop-in sink is a much better option when laminate counters are installed.

Can an undermount sink be replaced?

Undermount sinks can be difficult to replace because many installation methods are more or less permanent. Sinkmount Kit hardware is designed to install and uninstall easily, in order allow undermount sinks to be replaced without risking damage to the existing countertop.

Can undermount sinks be top-mounted?

Although drop-in sinks and undermount sinks look similar when viewed side by side, these are actually two different types of sinks. An undermount sink is specifically designed for installation below the countertop, not on top. The rim of an undermount sink will usually be flatter then that of a drop-in and it will not have the finish layer of porcelain applied. Although this would be physically possible, the finish product would not be appealing for most people. If you're considering top-mounting your sink, purchasing a drop-in sink will ensure the best results.

How do I measure an undermount sink for installation?

The hole for your sink should equal the size of your sink minus the rim.
Using a tape measure, record the distance from one rim to the opposite rim of your sink. Do this lengthwise and widthwise. Now measure only the sink's rim and subtract this number from your first recorded measurements.
Alternately, turn your sink rim-side down onto your top material. Trace its outline, then subtract the width of the rim and mark it.
The overall width of the sink rim should also be equal to or less than the interior width of your sink cabinet. This will allow for easier installation and replacement of the sink.

Which kind of sealant should I use for an undermount sink?

Properly sealing an undermount sink can be difficult. Over time, the weight of an undermount sink can be taxing for any sealant and failures are common. If no bracket or other type of support is used, the use of 100% silicone sealant should produce the best connection with fewer failures then other types of caulking. Our Sinkmount Kit hardware offers additional support that’s easy to install and adjust. Each bracket is specifically designed to keep your sink closely mounted to the top, making the sealant's job much easier. Basically, any type of caulking that provides a water tight seal can be used when a bracket is installed. Siliconized acrylic caulk is commonly used in this type of installation. It is water based and much easier to apply than 100% silicone.