Adding an undermount sink to your kitchen is a quick and easy way to update your decor and increase your home's value. When we set out to search for the best undermount kitchen sink, we took a number of factors into account. First, we knew we needed to find sinks that were large enough to handle a variety of cookware, as well as deep enough to prevent splashing. Then, we needed to make certain that the brands we selected had maintained a solid reputation by creating durable and long-lasting sinks. Finally, the overall customer satisfaction rate of each sink, as well as its affordability, were taken into account.
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3. Kraus KHU100-30 Kitchen Sink
4. Ruvati 32-inch Undermount 16 Gauge Kitchen Sink
5. Kraus Standard PRO KHU100-32 Undermount Single Bowl Kitchen Sink
7. Kraus KBU22 32 inch Undermount 50/50 Double Bowl
8. Elkay ELGU2522WH0 Gourmet Quartz Undermount Sink
9. Swanstone QZ03322LS.077 Granite Kitchen Sink
10. Kraus Standart PRO KHU103-33 Undermount Kitchen Sink
1. Assemble Tools
In all truth, the installation of an undermount sink is a pretty simple affair. First step is to assemble your tools. Please note, that the instructions and tools suggested are a guide. It is crucial that you follow the instructions that come with the sink you purchased. Here is a list of suggested tools:
- Drill
- Saw
- Epoxy
- Denatured alcohol
- 2 x 4
- Bar clamp
- Clean soft rags
- 100 percent silicone sealant
- Mounting hardware
2. Cut the Hole
If this is a fresh countertop, you'll have to cut the hole. Most undermount sink manufacturers provide you with a cutout template. If not, then you'll have to measure your sink in order to cut the proper size hole in the granite countertop. Remember, measure twice--or more, and cut once. Please note, if you are not handy or well experience with tools, it's best to hire a professional to make the hole.
3. Check for Fit
Now it's time for a trial run, or dry mount. This means that you're going to check for fit. Take the sink and place it in position by inserting it from underneath. Make certain that the the rim sits below the countertop. If all is well and good, proceed to prep the sink.
4. Prep the Sink
Take a clean, soft cloth, add a bit of denatured alcohol, and wipe the area of the sink that will come in contact with the granite, as well as the underside of the granite countertop, where it makes contact with the sink.
5. Get Out the Drill If Needed
An undermount sink is held in place by clips. Some manufacturers provide clips that use epoxy, others require holes to be drilled. If yours requires holes, then proceed as follows. While the sink is in position, carefully mark where holes need to be drilled into the granite counterrop. Once marked, remove the sink and proceed to drill the holes. Clean the ridge using denatured alcohol or acetone. Let dry.
6. Time for Sealant
Take your silicone sealant and place a thin layer on the sink lip--wherever the sink will come in contact with the granite.
7. Get Your 2 x 4 and Bar Clamp
Take two folded towels and place them on either side of the sink top. You will place the 2 x 4 on these towels. Take your 2 x 4 and place it lengthwise over the sink top opening, atop the towels. Take a bar clamp, and fit it over the wood and into the drain hole of the sink. If you wish, you may place a piece of wood or towel between the clamp under the sink, to protect the finish.
Raise the sink until it meets the bottom of the counter. If need be, adjust the clamp so everything is held together perfectly. If you have a double bowl sink, then use two bar clamps. If you have to adjust position, do so by gently tapping the sink with your hands.
8. Clean Up Excess Sealant
Remove any excess sealant that appears with a clean, soft rag and denatured alcohol.
9. Install Mounting Hardware
As noted above, depending on your mounting hardware, you'll either be attaching the mounting clamps using epoxy, or by inserting screws in the holes you've already drilled.
10. Time to Cure
Take a soft cloth and go over the interior of the sink again, removing any last bits of silicone. At this point, all that's needed is for you to keep the clamps in place, so the silicone can cure. It must do this for 24 hours.
The installation of an undermount kitchen sink is a relatively inexpensive way to accentuate the decor of your kitchen, or bring it up to date, giving it a more modern flair. The models in our review of the best undermount kitchen sinks is made to help in in making the proper decision for you. We've included both stainless steel sinks, as well as molded, granite sinks. All of the brands are well-respected and offer their customers superb customer service. We hope you've enjoyed our article, and that it helped you to locate the perfect sink for your kitchen.
