Since the 1980s, Undermount sinks have been popular, whereas farm sinks have become very popular more recently.
It is hard to judge which is better, because it is based on personal preference.
Undermount is about hiding your sink under the counter whereas apron sinks become a focal point.
So we will show you how to size your sink and then some popular styles and prices of each.
Sizes
Buying a sink seems straightforward enough. Kitchen plumbing, like appliances, follows standard cabinet sizes. The main widths are 25″, 30″ and 36″ with 33″ being specified rarely.
Have a look at each style in each size:
Installation
Undermount sinks are installed with clips under the counter. Apron sinks sit on the cabinet itself. If you want an apron sink, you have to plan in advance, because the install is more complicated with cabinets.
Once again, this is more personal preference, so let’s compare costs.
Undermount Sinks vs. Farm Sinks
Farm Sinks
There is a counterpart for each material whether it is fireclay, copper or good old stainless steel. These are examples of both installations.
Rohl fireclay is made by the original Shaw’s of England company.
Undermount Sinks
Yale Sink YS3219-10 – $699
As you can see the farm sink and designer materials are more expensive than undermounting stainless steel.
Designer Finishes
Concrete has become more popular, especially in a farm sink. You buy concrete in a number of finishes.
Final Thoughts
Sinks remind me of decorative lighting, meaning it completes the vision of your kitchen. Each works, but the look is way different. The undermount sink will accentuate the counters while the farm sink will be another focal point.
