Drop-in kitchen sinks, also called self-rimming sinks, overmount sinks, or top-mount sinks, are sink basins that install and sit on top of your kitchen counter. There is a visible rim or lip on the perimeter of the basin that rests just over the cut-out for the sink. Drop-in sinks are supported by this lip and a series of hidden clips that attach to the underside of the countertop.
The Advantages of Drop-In Sinks
Drop-in sinks have some clear advantages over other styles, especially in the kitchen.
Cost
They`re generally cheaper to buy and easier to install than undermount sinks. In fact, even weekend warriors and DIY newbies should have no problem installing a basic overmount sink. If cost is a consideration in your kitchen, an overmount sink with a do-it-yourself install is a great way to stay within budget.
Cleaning
While cleaning may not be your foremost concern when choosing a kitchen sink, it should be considered. After all, you`ll have to care for and maintain your sink regularly. The basin of an overmount sink is easier to clean than the basin of an undermount sink.
Protection
If you`ve got soft countertops, drop-in sinks can help protect the edges of the sink cutout.
- Marble and some specialty counter finishes benefit from the added protection provided by the lip of a drop-in kitchen sink basin. It prevents the build up of water on the surface edges of the stone through repeated exposure of use.
- If you have laminate countertops, drop-in sinks are the only option: the particle board below the laminate surface isn`t strong enough to support undermount sinks but plays well with self-rimming basin types.
