An Undermount Bathroom Sink Provides a Modern Look

If your late 1970s bathroom with its chipped countertop and stained sink is finally ready for a remodel, consider the modern look of an undermount bathroom sink. As the name implies, this type of sink mounts from underneath the counter. The sink is slightly larger than the opening cut into the bathroom countertop for the sink. This maneuver creates a slight overhang of the counter into the bowl of the sink.

The beauty of the undermount bathroom sink is that there is no lip around the bowl area so if you spill something on the counter, you can easily sweep it into the sink bowl to rinse away. The undermount is a popular choice in new home construction as well as remodels because of its attractive functionality.

There is one caveat in regards to the undermount bathroom sink – it can only be installed into countertops with a solid surface. Such surfaces as granite, marble and other stone are acceptable as are composite synthetic countertops. Tile and plastic laminate are not appropriate surfaces due to the potential moisture problem. With tile, moisture could eventually break down the grout and even contribute to mold and mildew growth. Plastic laminate covers particle board and even with the best sealers, moisture could escape through minute cracks, degrading the wood as well as the glue underneath the laminate.

A number of options exist in regards to the material used to manufacture your undermount bathroom sink. The most common models are either made from a solid composite synthetic material that closely matches the countertops or a cast iron protected by porcelain enamel. Of course, if you have the funds to splurge a little, consider a stainless steel sink or something made from copper or pewter. Different types of glass are options for undermount bathroom sinks as are mosaic tile, cloisonné, ceramic, porcelain, and acrylic. Truly, you are only limited by your imagination and your budget.

Plumbing pipes for an undermount bathroom sink would work much in the same was as a sink mounted above the countertop because they too are typically concealed by a vanity cabinet base. Only the method of binding the undermount sink to the countertop would vary, particularly due to manufacturers' designs. Metal anchors in addition to high strength epoxies and silicone caulking for sealing provide a stable, leak-free installation for this sink.

An undermount bathroom sink will modernize the look of any bathroom remodeling project. The hardest part won't be installation but rather choosing which sink you want!