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Undermount Kitchen Sinks Buyer’s Guide

Porcelain Sink

Table of Contents

Looking for the best undermount kitchen sink can be tricky. With so many kitchen sinks to choose from, narrowing down your options is not a easy task.

Kitchen sinks come in different sizes, designs, and more! How on earth will you find the right kitchen sink for you? Don’t you wish there was an easy way to solve this problem?

Well, worry no more! To help you find the best undermount kitchen sink for your purchasing, we have listed some basic considerations you should take into account.

This will help narrow your search and find the perfect undermount kitchen sink for your kitchen.

Design and Size

When you’re looking for an undermount kitchen sink, you’ll almost stare at a wall full of white coated sink bowls. They’re all very similar in appearance and sometimes visually confusing.

But a closer look will tell you otherwise. After all, kitchen sinks aren’t all the same!

Now, we’re sure that at some point in your search, you were attracted to a kitchen sink that looked great.

You can already imagine it in your kitchen and how it shines with different countertop materials.

You’re ready to head straight to the checkout corner!

White Granite Composite Single Bowl Kitchen Sink

Now, we hate to burst your bubble, but following your heart isn’t always the best advice when it comes to finding the best undermount kitchen sink.

Because before you do, the most critical question you should ask yourself is, “Is it the right sink for me?”

One of the most critical factors that is always worth considering is the size of your undermount sink. Where do you plan to install it? Will it fit on my counter?

  • If you are only planning to replace your kitchen sink, it is easy to find the right size for the new replacement piece. All you have to do is pattern the dimensions based on the old ones.
  • However, if you are starting from scratch or doing some remodeling work, you need to be able to determine in advance what dimensions you should be looking for.

Once you’ve determined the dimensions, you’re ready to start looking for the design that best suits your kitchen aesthetic!

There are many factors to consider when it comes to design.

You’ve already been given materials, colors, etc. But for functional purposes, we’ll focus on whether you should purchase a single or double bowl undermount sink.

  • Single bowl kitchen sinks are pretty standard. They are usually deeper, allowing you to place many pots and pans at once. It’s perfect for people who have small homes, or are trying to achieve a minimal look or want more counter space!
  • The double bowl gives you easy access to two sinks. You can scrub dishes on 1 sink and put them on the other sink when you’re done! It’s all up to you. The only downside is that it takes up your counter space.

Gauge Thickness

If you don’t know what gauge thickness means, it refers to the thickness of the metal or steel on your undermount sink.

For example, when you purchase an undermount sink, you can choose the gauge thick from 10 to 23 of the product description.

Please note: A lower gauge represents thicker material, and the higher it goes, the thinner the structure becomes.

sink gauge

Not only that, but you must also be aware of the following.

  • The gauge number represents the strength and durability of the steel.
  • Higher gauge numbers translate into thinner steel, which tends to be noisier.
  • Thinner steel tends to break down more quickly than thicker steel.

Unfortunately, not many people consider the thickness of their undercounter sink specifications. For some people, this is a very minor detail that is often overlooked a lot.

But, no matter how small this detail is, did you know that it plays a vital role in the construction of undermount sinks?

For us, it’s best to choose an undermount sink with a lower gauge number. Steel tends to be thicker, which means long-lasting durability.

Resistance to Heat

Is it necessary to look for a heat-resistant undermount sink? Why, of course, yes!

Your undermount kitchen sink should be able to withstand the heat. This means that you can safely pour hot water over it without worrying about damaging it or yourself.

 For example, materials such as steel or porcelain do not have the best heat resistance. They tend to heat up much faster than other materials and are therefore more susceptible to damage.

In this case, pouring hot water over the sink isn’t the best idea. You have limited use of the sink when it comes to heating materials, and this is not what you are registering for.

Materials

Undermount sinks are made in different ways. Some are made of granite, steel, porcelain, etc.!

In most cases, people choose which material to use based on the design. However, this is not always the case, especially if you are looking for a quality sink.

Granite

granite composite sink

If you want an undermount kitchen sink that will last a lifetime, choose a granite sink. It is one of the most durable materials available and will give you value for money.

Granite sinks are heat resistant, reasonably priced, and look great. What more could you ask for?

The only downside is that they are heavy and can be tricky to install. Plus, you’ll need to seal them well to avoid any chipping or staining.

Porcelain

Another beautiful material for kitchen sinks is porcelain. Thanks to its durability, versatility and timeless design, it remains a popular favorite to this day!

No matter the aesthetic, it will fit nicely into your kitchen! Rest assured that no matter what kind of interior you want, there is always a porcelain sink for you.

Be careful though. Porcelain sinks are extremely fragile. If you’re not careful, you could scratch or cut the surface with your pots and pans.

Quartz

Similar to granite, quartz is a great kitchen sink. It’s durable, low-maintenance, low-noise, heat-resistant, and more!

Undermount Sinks

Unlike granite, quartz is more affordable and low maintenance! They are very easy to clean and require little to no care. All you need is water!

Be careful when using a quartz kitchen sink though. When you drop pots and pans on it, you can accidentally damage it.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is one of the most popular sink materials.

A stainless steel kitchen sink is always a great choice for your kitchen because it is durable and affordable. Its steel look brings a modern and elegant appeal to your kitchen.

One of the best things about using stainless steel kitchen sinks is that they are low-maintenance. Cleaning is effortless, and you don’t have to worry about it chipping or cracking!

But if it has a downside, stainless steel sinks can make a lot of noise. You need to be aware if the gauge thickness is around 20 to 23, for it means the stainless steel is super thin.

Installation

Installing an undermount kitchen sink is relatively easy. Well, that is if you have measured the sink correctly.

Make sure to measure the cabinet where you plan to install the sink if possible.

You will need to list its width, length and even depth. Once you take note of this, you’ll be able to find the right undermount sink.

To help manage your expectations…

  • Installing stainless steel sinks is much easier because they are very lightweight.
  • In contrast, granite and porcelain tend to be a bit tricky because they are heavy and need to be sealed.

Maintenance

Once you’ve installed your kitchen sink, the next thing you need to consider is its maintenance.

Now, we’re sure you don’t want any complicated routine maintenance. If anything, we’re sure you want a kitchen sink that’s easy to clean.

Fortunately, many of the undermount sinks out there can provide you with that – without the need for complicated and religious routine maintenance. Enough water!

Note, however, that this is not true of all kitchen sinks. Sometimes, the type of material you use plays a crucial role.

For example, granite is easy to clean. However, you usually need to check its sides to make sure it’s properly sealed in place.

Steel sinks, on the other hand, are fingerprint magnets and can even leave dried water stains!

Soundproofing

We’re sure you’re familiar with the loud noise pots and pans make when they hit the walls of your kitchen sink. Sometimes it can get very noisy, especially if your sink is made of steel.

It makes you wonder if the person washing the dishes is angry.

granite composite sink background

Well, maybe they are angry, but one of the reasons could also be the insulation of your sink. Various materials, such as rubber mats, can help absorb and reduce noise upon impact.

You can place these types of materials on sink bases, sink sides, etc. No more noisy pots and pans!

Price and Warranty

No matter what you buy, price is always an important factor to consider. After all, your options are very limited in terms of what you can afford.

Now, before you go out looking for the best undermount kitchen sink, set a realistic budget for yourself. Doing so will help you narrow down your choices and make your life easier.

Don’t worry, because even if you set a small budget for yourself, you can always find the right sink for you.

As long as you make sure it’s of good quality and worth the money, you won’t have to worry.

The most expensive kitchen sink doesn’t always translate to quality!

No matter how much you pay for your kitchen sink, you want to make sure it comes with a warranty. Usually, reputable manufacturers offer warranties, so you don’t have to worry about them.

Some offer a limited warranty, while others can offer a limited lifetime warranty! If your sink is defective in any way, you can always return it and have it replaced for free!

Frequently Asked Questions

Who makes the best undermount kitchen sink?

There are many undermount kitchen sink manufacturers on the market, but who does it best? Well, our experts’ choice is Chica Dragon.

black granite composite sink
Chica Dragon Single Bowl Granite Composite Sink

Chica Dragon is a China-based company that entered the market in 2008. They researched the science behind stainless steel sinks and granite composite sinks in great detail. Afterward, they applied this research to make top-quality kitchen sinks.
The Quality offered by Chica Dragon is unmatched. They only provide superior quality products. Moreover, they also provide OEM service and a complete supply chain.
Another great thing about the company is how they treat their customers. The company has a lot of brand loyalists as well because of the Quality it offers.
Furthermore, the company’s reviews are also great. They accommodate their customers exceptionally well and always deliver on their promise.

Our Top Pick For An Undermount Kitchen Sink: Chica Dragon Single Bowl Granite Composite Sink

The best undermount kitchen sink available today comes from Chica Dragon, and it couldn’t be more obvious. Its granite composite sink looks impeccable, blending looks and quality into one.

No matter what style you want, this Chica sink won’t be hard to install! No matter how rustic or quirky it is, no problem!

Indeed, this undermount is a great example of what works best. With its high heat and scratch-resistant body, this sink will get better in time.

Artemis Kuang

Artemis Kuang

I am a product specialist in granite composite sinks (quartz sinks) at AquartzSink.com. I have been in this industry for over 8 years.

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