We talk a lot about countertops—it comes with the territory; but one thing we don’t talk about is what to do with countertops when they’re installed. Whether it’s a kitchen or a bathroom, one thing is for sure: you’ll need a sink. Trust us, all sinks are not alike. When homeowners remodel, they generally voice two main concerns: appearance and usability. So, before choosing a sink for your kitchen or bathroom, consider the differences between top-mount and under-mount sinks…

A top-mount sink is installed on top of a countertop. This means that a portion of the sink (the lip), overlaps the countertop to provide a covered edge. Top-mount sinks are great for two reasons—one, they’re cost effective (less effort/labor to install) and two, they offer more wiggle room for under-sink storage. Top-mount sinks are the status quo, you’ll find them in most every household. But that’s not to say they’re without downside. The problem with top-mount sinks is the lip. Because the lip rests atop the counter, cleanliness is a concern. Crevices trap dirt, debris, and bacteria—problems that pose future risk if untended. That said, with semi-regular cleaning/inspection, these threats are more bark than bite.

Under-mount sinks are less common but more attractive. Under-mount means the sink is installed below the countertop, yielding a smoother finish. For obvious reasons, under-mount sinks are common in natural stone countertops. Smooth finish means more sanitation, but it also means more cost. Without a lip to support it, under-mount sinks require stands or braces for support; also, under-mount sinks require special fitting—all cost intensive decisions. But, if appearance and sanitation mean more than cost and storage, an under-mount sink’s for you…

All things considered, there’s no right or wrong answer here. Like any remodel, the decision to do one thing or the other boils down to individual personality and budget restrictions. Before choosing a sink for your bathroom or kitchen remodel, weigh the costs and benefits. Like the countertop itself, a sink is a cornerstone. Take your time and consult a professional—in due time, you’ll have a great looking sink that works best for you!