The Differences Between Vessel Sinks and Undermount Sinks
Choosing sink designs sounds easy enough when you start the remodeling process, but you'll soon realize there are a variety of choices available. Finding one that is the right style for your home is key since you'll be using it every day, but balancing style and budget may take some finesse. Two of the most popular options available today are
vessel sinks
and undermount sinks. They are vastly different, but both are suitable for homes, so let's look to see which may be right for your next remodel.
Vessel Sinks Versus Undermount Sinks — Key Differences
The biggest differences between undermount and vessel sinks are the installation process and the way they appear within the vanity or countertop. Vessel sinks sit above the counter as a basin that the water flows into. On the other hand, an undermount sink is installed under the countertop, and the very top edge is flush with the top, blending the sink seamlessly with the counter.
Vessel Sinks: Pros and Cons
Sitting on top of the counter, vessel sinks mimic old wash basins of the past. They are often
made from solid surfaces
, such as ceramics, stainless steel, or glass but can also be made from natural stone, copper, wood, and marble. These sinks are aesthetically pleasing and can provide a flair to any space.
Pros
- Options to choose from. When it comes to vessel sinks, there are so many designs one can choose from. Starting with the shapes of the sinks and ending with its sizes, you can have a variety of options to make your bathroom or kitchen look more modern.
- Modern and Fashionable. Vessel sinks are attractive and noticeable. Each sink has a distinctness that makes it stand out in a room, making it part of the decor instead of just a sink.
- Easy Installation. With the simple design of the vessel sink, installation is as easy as one hole for the drainpipe to fit. These sinks also offer flexibility when
replacing the sink
. They can be easily swapped for a different sink if something breaks.
- Size Flexibility. Vessel sinks come in a
variety of sizes
. You can get a
smaller one
and have more counter space available to you, or a
larger one
that will meet your needs.
- Affordable. Vessel sinks come in a variety of
materials
and sizes, which helps keep the sinks affordable for many people. Choosing a sink you love, in a material you love, should come at an affordable price.
Cons
- Less Durable. Nowadays, vessel sinks are commonly made from solid surfaces, which make the sinks more sturdy and durable. Moreover, sinks that are made of solid surfaces are easier to fix as well, which makes them prone to chipping and breaking if you drop something heavy in them. These sinks cannot take high impacts and should be used in an environment where they won't take much wear and tear.
- Stability. Vessel sinks only have one point of attachment at the drain, so this may cause stability issues in a heavy-use environment. This may cause the bowl to tip, spilling water all over your room, or it may even damage the sink itself.
- Overflow Issues. These sinks are smaller, so the bowl may overflow if used in a heavy-traffic environment.
Undermount Sinks: Pros and Cons
Undermount sinks are installed below your countertop and provide a surface that is flush with the vanity or countertop. Undermount sinks require high-quality materials that are not overly heavy, as they hang below the surface. Often, these sinks are made from stainless steel, ceramics, porcelain, or copper.
Pros
- Easy to Clean. Because the sink is installed flush with the countertop, cleaning is a breeze. Simply wipe the water stains and grime into the sink and wash it away.
- Very Popular. Undermount sinks are a common style in many homes. The design of the sink allows your countertops to be the center of attention instead of the sink.
- Durable. Undermount sinks tend to be more durable. They are at less risk of chipping and breaking and are a great buy for both kitchens and bathrooms.
- Resale Value Goes Up. When looking at vessel versus undermount sinks, the undermount has a better resale value. Homebuyers tend to lean toward sinks that cost more to install but are sturdier and at less risk of chipping.
Cons
- Difficult Installation. Undermount sinks require bonding agents to secure the sink, plus knowledge of how heavy a sink is and what will best secure it. Undermount sinks can be constructed from materials that are not compatible with certain countertops, so knowledge of the countertop is also important. These may need to be professionally installed.
- Expensive. Undermount sinks require more of an initial investment than vessel sinks because the sinks require durability and need to be high-quality while still looking attractive in your home.
Undermount Sink Versus Vessel Sink: Choosing the Right Sink for Your Bathroom
When choosing a sink, many times, it will come down to personal preference and unique style tastes. Either sink can be easily integrated into your home, giving it the feel you're trying to achieve.
Consider your budget when choosing a sink. If you are doing a complete remodel in your bathroom, you may need some money for other elements. Another thing to consider when debating an undermount versus vessel sink is the resale value. If you are contemplating
selling your home
, you may want to consider an undermount sink.
The vessel sink versus undermount sink question doesn't have a solid "winner." Either sink will be a great addition to your home, but the right one for you is the one you'll be happy with. It will fit within your budget and still have the individual style you're looking for to set the mood in your bathroom. Do your research, get free estimates, and you'll find the best options for your home.
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