Undermount Stainless Steel Sinks

An undermount sink is a style of sink wherein the basin is mounted beneath the counter top. It is also commonly known as recessed sink, due to the fact that installation of this type of sink requires the removal of the upper ring. Among various types of materials, stainless steel is the most common one for undermount sinks.

Undermount stainless steel sinks are becoming increasingly popular for kitchens because of their seamless appearance and the very effective use of space. The durability and the hygienic benefits of this type of sink is definitely a winning combination. It is also less prone to dents, water spots and scratches. In addition, undermount stainless steel kitchen sinks also have some other advantages, including but not limited to the following:

• Food, spills or other debris can be easily collected and pushed right into the sink. It leaves a smooth surface that is easy to clean and you need not worry about materials getting trapped on the rim of the sink.
• With undermount sinks, plumbing is generally hid behind the cabinetry so that you do not have to worry about clutter or mess. This invisible advantage makes this the preferred style favored by home makers who like their kitchen and bathroom clean all the time.
• Due to its seamless nature, it does not require that much attention or maintenance efforts. You can just wash it with soap and water, or simply wipe it, and it is mint clean once again.
• Since undermount sinks are installed under a solid surface counter, it will not interrupt the integrity of the design and the style you have thought out for your kitchen or bathroom, nor will it limit your ability to select the color theme. You will have the freedom to design these areas based on your preference.

Due to potential risk of water damage to counter tops, undermount sinks are best installed under concrete countertops, granite countertops or other solid surface ones.

There is a large collection of undermount sinks and they are available in varied shapes, sizes and configurations. Undermount stainless steel sink comes in single bowl, double bowl and triple bowl designs. A double bowl sink or a large single bowl sink would be best if you wash lots of baking pans so that there will be enough room to lay them down to soak. Triple bowl sinks usually include a smaller sink which is mainly for rinsing or for disposal of garbage. The most important thing is that you assess your kitchen needs and choose the shape and size that will be best. The most common size is 22 by 33 inches and width can vary from 12 to 33 inches. Bowl depths can vary from 5 to 11 inches. Drain locations can be found on either the back or the center of the sink, and accessories such as drain strainers and grids are also available.

When choosing a stainless steel sink, you should consider the gauge or the thickness. Generally, thicker materials are quieter and sturdier. Sink with a gauge over 18 should be avoided.