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Undermount Stainless Steel Kitchen Sinks

Bidisha Mukherjee
Undermount stainless steel kitchen sinks have become an indispensable part of almost every kitchen. These have gained immense popularity due to their several advantages. Further, you can find out more about this type of kitchen sink.
Many of us want a chic-looking kitchen sink that blends aesthetically with the look of our kitchens. An undermount stainless steel kitchen sink offers you just that. It is different from any other kitchen sink because of how it snugly fits into a kitchen countertop.
The undermount kitchen sink is fitted below the counter in a manner where its rim and bottom aren't visible from above. Hence, it is also commonly referred to as a recessed sink.

Patterns

Undermount kitchen sinks are made from a variety of other materials, like copper and granite. Amongst these, the stainless steel kind is the most popular, since they are easy to maintain and where its sleek surface goes well with a modern kitchen. There are two types of this sink―one with a single sink, and other with two fitted sinks.
It is advisable not to fit these sinks if you have a countertop made from tile or laminate, because of their weak stabilizing features; granite or marble are the best materials.
They are available in interesting shapes like square, rectangular, oval, elliptical, asymmetrical, straight-and-curvy combos, and so on. A wide range of options are available in terms of size. You can choose one that best serves your purpose by keeping the dimensions of your kitchen counter in mind, as well as the look of the kitchen.

Installation

The sealing work between the sink and the counter is done below the counter, and not above it. The task of installing this sink ideally requires the help of a professional, since the last thing you need is the sink falling to the floor.
The first step is to locate a suitable opening on the upper side of the counter. This is done by turning the sink upside down on the kitchen countertop, in order to determine its dimensions. Then, a hole is made in the countertop using a template. These steps should then be covered.
  • Place a 2 x 4 clamp across the countertop and attach the sink from below, adjusting its position before continuing.
  • Before you put the brass inserts, thread the wing nuts to the screw heads, testing the snugness of the sink within the countertop hole, before marking the position of the mounting clips.
  • Take the sink down, drill holes for the brass inserts. Clean inner rim of the hole with alcohol-base solution, applying a silicone sealant around the edges, before re-attaching the sink into it.
  • Tighten the wing nuts to screw heads to hold the inserts.
  • Release the sink from clamps. For the faucets, decide how to place it, leaving the sink overnight to set.

Advantages

The pros of having an undermount kitchen sink are:
  • These types of sinks are quite large and have ample space to accommodate large utensils for washing.
  • It utilizes kitchen space effectively and thus, is beneficial for use in a small kitchen as well.
  • They have a particular undercoating that decreases noise to a great extent while washing.
  • Because the plumbing is hidden from view within a cabinet, one doesn't have to deal with its displeasing sight.
  • They last for a long duration of time and do not incur damages like dents, spots, or scratches, very easily.
  • Excessive maintenance is not required because of its seamless nature. Regular cleaning with soap and water is enough.
The shiny surface and durable nature of the undermount kitchen sink make it a popular choice. It is also considered a hygienic sink option, since it doesn't clog drains with nasty food bits.