Undermount Sinks vs Farmhouse Sinks: What’s the Difference & How to Choose the Right One
|
|
Time to read 3 min
When designing or remodeling a kitchen, one of the most impactful decisions you’ll make is choosing the right sink. Two of the most popular options are undermount sinks and farmhouse sinks (also called apron-front sinks). Each style has distinct advantages, aesthetic appeal, and functional differences — and the best choice depends on your kitchen layout, lifestyle, budget, and design goals.
In this guide, we walk through everything you need to know — from pros and cons to installation, cleaning, durability, and how to choose the best sink for you.
Table of Contents
What Is an Undermount Sink?
What Is a Farmhouse Sink?
Key Differences: Undermount vs Farmhouse Sinks
Pros and Cons of Undermount Sinks
Pros and Cons of Farmhouse Sinks
How to Choose the Right Sink for Your Kitchen
Installation, Maintenance & Cost Considerations
FAQs
Conclusion: Which Sink Is Right for You?
1. What Is an Undermount Sink?
An undermount sink is installed from beneath the countertop, creating a seamless, clean line between the counter and the sink bowl.
What Makes Undermount Unique?
No visible rim on the countertop surface
Easy countertop sweeping — debris falls directly into the sink
Works best with solid surface materials like quartz, granite, or marble
2. What Is a Farmhouse Sink?
A farmhouse sink (also called an apron-front sink) features a front panel that extends past the edge of the countertop and is fully visible.
What Makes Farmhouse Sinks Special?
Distinctive, front-facing design
Deep basin and often a single bowl
Adds character and a design focal point
3. Key Differences: Undermount vs Farmhouse Sinks
| Feature | Undermount Sink | Farmhouse Sink |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | Mounted beneath countertop | Front-facing, integrated with cabinetry |
| Look | Sleek, modern, minimal | Classic, bold, traditional |
| Cleaning | Easy to wipe debris directly in | Front edge may collect crumbs |
| Bowl Style | Single or double bowls common | Often one large bowl |
| Countertop Compatibility | Best w/ solid surface counters | Works with many counter types |
| Visual Impact | Subtle & streamlined | Eye-catching centerpiece |
4. Pros and Cons of Undermount Sinks
Pros
Clean & modern look
Easy daily cleaning
Doesn’t interrupt countertop pattern
Great for double-bowl choices
Cons
Typically requires solid surface countertop
More complex installation
Slightly higher labor cost
5. Pros and Cons of Farmhouse Sinks
Pros
Deep basin ideal for large pots
Iconic, design-forward style
Great for traditional, rustic, or modern farmhouse kitchens
Cons
Front panel may require custom cabinetry
Can be heavier
Cleaning around the front lip can take more effort
6. How to Choose the Right Sink for Your Kitchen
Choosing between undermount and farmhouse sinks depends on several factors:
1. Your Kitchen Style
Sleek, minimalist, contemporary → Undermount
Cozy, classic, farmhouse, Tuscan → Farmhouse
2. Your Daily Workflow
You clean up often and want easy sweep-in cleaning → Undermount
You wash oversized items and want a deep bowl → Farmhouse
3. Cabinet & Countertop Compatibility
Solid surface counters (quartz/granite) → great for undermount
Custom cabinetry with support → ideal for farmhouse
4. Budget & Installation
Undermount may cost more to install
Farmhouse may require cabinet modification
7. Installation, Maintenance & Cost Considerations
Undermount Sink Installation
Requires strong support under countertop
Typically used with heavy, solid surfaces
Needs professional installation to prevent leaks
Farmhouse Sink Installation
Needs cabinet reinforcement
May require cutting existing cabinetry
Often heavier (fireclay or cast iron)
Maintenance Tips
Undermount: clean edges with mild soap; avoid harsh scrubbing
Farmhouse: keep front panel dry to prevent water marks
Cost Range (Typical)
| Sink Type | Sink Price | Installation |
|---|---|---|
| Undermount | $200–$1,000+ | $150–$500+ |
| Farmhouse | $300–$1,500+ | $200–$800+ |
(Prices vary by material, brand, and kitchen size)
FAQ
Is a farmhouse sink harder to clean than an undermount?
Not necessarily — the deep bowl helps hide mess, but the front lip may require extra wiping compared to the seamless edge of undermount sinks.
Can I install an undermount sink with laminate counters?
Not recommended — undermount sinks need stable counter edges; laminate doesn’t support them well.
Are farmhouse sinks more expensive?
Often yes, due to custom cabinetry and heavier materials.
What’s better for busy families?
If ease of cleaning and everyday practicality matter most → undermount.
If you want design impact and a deep basin → farmhouse.
9. Conclusion: Which Sink Is Right for You?
Both undermount and farmhouse sinks have unique strengths.
👉 Choose undermount if you want:
Clean lines and minimal design
Easy daily cleanup
Compatibility with modern counters
👉 Choose farmhouse if you want:
Classic, statement style
Deep single-bowl utility
A focal point in your kitchen design
No matter which sink you select, making an informed choice ensures your kitchen is both beautiful and functional — ready for daily use and years of enjoyment.
