The Best Brands for Porcelain Undermount Kitchen Sinks
With their smooth, seamless look and durable porcelain construction, undermount sinks have become a highly popular choice for today's modern kitchens. But with so many brands and models available, how do you determine which sink is truly the best fit for your space and needs?
Whether you prefer a classic farmhouse apron front or a sleek contemporary minimalist design, we'll help you find the perfect undermount sink to complement your decor.
Benefits of Undermount Kitchen Sinks
Seamless Look
One of the greatest advantages of undermount sinks is the smooth, seamless transition they create between the countertop and sink basin. With the sink installed underneath the counter, water and debris can simply be wiped from the counter directly into the sink without any edges or crevices to trap mess.
The result is a very streamlined, minimalist look that is easier to keep clean and hygienic. No more crumbs or water pooling at the edge where the sink and counter meet.
Durability
High-quality porcelain is an incredibly durable material that can withstand heavy daily use in the kitchen. It resists stains, stands up to high heat, and won't scratch, chip or corrode when exposed to foods, liquids and abrasive cleaners.
Undermount sinks constructed of solid, nonporous porcelain offer superior longevity compared to models made with more brittle materials like china that require delicate handling.
Style
With their clean lines and minimalist look, undermount sinks are ideal for pairing with contemporary kitchen decors. But while they have a modern aesthetic, undermount sinks are also available in more traditional styles like farmhouse and apron-front.
This versatility makes it easy to find an undermount sink that will complement your existing kitchen decor beautifully.
Top Brands of Porcelain Undermount Sinks
Kohler
Known for advanced innovations and elegant designs, Kohler is a highly respected brand in kitchen and bath fixtures. The company has over 140 years of experience producing stylish, high-performing sinks and faucets.
Their undermount kitchen sinks come in a wide array of configurations, depths, and finish options. Top choices like the Ladena, Caxton, and Iron Plains sinks balance beauty and utility with durable, easy-to-clean porcelain construction.
Blanco
German engineering is renowned for precision and quality manufacturing. Blanco, another venerable sink brand, continues that tradition with their line of Silgranit undermount sinks.
This patented material blends the best qualities of porcelain, granite, and stainless steel into a durable, hygienic, and fashionable kitchen sink. The Anthracite and Precis models stand out for their sleek styling and low-maintenance designs.
Ruvati
A relative newcomer compared to legacy brands like Kohler, Ruvati has nevertheless quickly made a name for itself in kitchen sinks. They focus specifically on the residential market rather than commercial installations.
Ruvati undermount sinks offer excellent value, with stylish designs showcasing smooth satin finishes and modern configurations like square or sloped-bottom bowls.
Key Factors in Choosing a Brand
Material and Finish
The porcelain used in quality undermount sinks has an impervious glasslike coating that resists staining and etching. But minor variations in materials and finishing processes impact durability and ease of cleaning.
Look for super smooth, nonporous finishes in gloss, satin, or matte styles. Avoid porous surfaces that can absorb stains over time.
Construction and Durability
Focus on established brands with a reputation for longevity and quality manufacturing. Test display models in person for a sturdy, solid feel without creaks or weak points.
Examine the sink for tight fittings, secure mounting clips, and reinforced undermount hardware that will endure years of regular use.
Styles and Configurations
Consider the variety of installations the brand offers. Do they have single, double, and triple bowl undermount sinks to meet different needs? Check that depths, drain placements, and other options will pair well with your existing kitchen setup.
Also ensure the brand offers styles aligned with your kitchen's decor - modern, traditional, farmhouse, etc. You want an attractive, cohesive look.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Professional Installation
Achieving a perfect custom fit requires making precise cuts in your existing countertop. Most homeowners opt to hire an experienced professional to install undermount sinks.
The sink gets securely attached from below using mounting clips, adhesives, or specialized bracket systems to hold it snugly in place.
Ongoing Care
Always clean porcelain undermount sinks immediately after use with a soft sponge or cloth and nonabrasive liquid cleaner. This prevents stains from setting in over time.
Avoid harsh chemicals and materials that could scratch the finish. Also periodically check and tighten the mounting hardware to keep the sink fitting flush against the underside of the counter.
With so many great porcelain undermount kitchen sinks on the market, it really comes down to selecting the right brand and model for your particular kitchen setup and style preferences. Keep this guide in mind as you evaluate options to find your perfect undermount sink.