Vessel Sink vs. Undermount Sink

Vessel sinks have become quite popular in recent years and are a trendy alternative to the classic undermount sink.

However, how do you choose which one is best for your home and your needs? Let's dive right in.

Primary Difference

A vessel sink sits above the countertop or vanity, white the undermount sink is installed below the countertop and is flush with the counter. So, do you want a sink that stands out or one that blends in seamlessly?

Vessel Sink: Pros

Unique- This design stands out. You can also choose between different materials like ceramic, glass, stone, marble and wood to make the sink a showstopper feature in your bathroom.

Affordable- For the most part, vessel sinks are made of more affordable materials like ceramic and glass, making their overall costs lower than traditional sinks.

Easy Install- Since the vessel sink sits on top of the countertop, it's very easy to install. All that is needed is to drill one hole for the drainpipe.

Flexible- Vessel sinks are easily replaced if broken. Simply swap out the vessel for another one without hiring a professional to replace it.

Variety of choices- As vessel sinks are becoming more and more popular, there are a variety of styles and sizes to choose from. Any option can add a touch of unique design to your bathroom space.

Vessel Sink: Cons

Cleaning: It's difficult to clean the area where the basin meets the vanity. It's important to keep this area clean to make sure that mold doesn't start growing.

Durability: Since a lot of vessel sinks are made from glass and ceramic, they are more prone to chip, so they must be used with care.

Overflow: A key issue with vessel sinks is the overflow. The basin is basically all you have to hold the water, with no secondary exits for the water. Additionally, be careful of splash-back, as can often be the issue with vessel sinks.

Accessibility: Since vessel sinks sit on top of the counter, it tends to be much higher than your average sink. This could be difficult or uncomfortable to access for shorter adults or children.

Undermount Sink: Pros

Easier to Clean: As the sink is underneath the countertop, it's so much easier to clean the seamless countertop with a simple swipe.

Understated Style: Undermount sinks are perfect for when you want your vanity or countertop to stand out, as the sink is seamlessly hidden. The sink won't be in the spotlight, letting you choose between other features in your bathroom to stand out.

Resale Value: These sinks are much more popular and when it comes time to resell your home, undermount sinks are seen as more labor intensive and better value than vessel sinks. As most new homeowners don't want to undertake so much work themselves, they'll choose a home that already has this work done.

Undermount Sink: Cons

Difficult Installation: This installation method requires intensive labor. Sinks are often heavy and need a strong bonding agent to strongly adhere it to the vanity. A vessel sink is secured at one hole and only requires a drainpipe hole, while an undermount sink might require professional expertise to properly install.

Price: Undermount sinks tend to be more expensive than vessel sinks. Usually undermount sinks require a great deal of quality and durability that results in a high quality sink.

So which one is best for you? It's all down to personal preference or what kind of traffic you expect to see in your different bathrooms.

Maybe you'll do a vessel sink in your guest bathroom and undermount in the bathroom you use? Maybe vice versa? The possibilities are endless!

That's all we have for this week.

Thanks for reading!

-Wholewood Team