Comparing mortise and overhead sinks | Which one is better to choose?

Updated: 04/23/2021 12:51:21

Expert: Konstantin Borisovich Polyakov

The kitchen is the place where every day begins and ends. That is why it must be beautiful, comfortable and functional. And kitchen appliances largely determine the comfort of the entire room.

The comfort of the room is determined, among other things, by the plumbing. A convenient and practical sink turns dishwashing from a routine task into a pleasant process. But choosing plumbing fixtures can be quite difficult.

In particular, there are two types of this kitchen sanitary ware - mortise and overhead. They differ in price, design and placement method. It’s just not clear what is best to place in your kitchen.

In this material we will analyze which sink is better - mortise or overhead.

The fundamental difference between overhead and mortise kitchen sinks

A built-in sink can only be installed by inserting it into a kitchen countertop or a separate kitchen table.
The insertion is made by cutting out a hole in the countertop slab, round, oval, square or rectangular, in the shape of the sink. And installation by the sink itself with special fastening to the edges of the cut. Difference between overhead and mortise sinks

An overhead sink does not require carpentry work to cut out. It (the sink) is placed on a special one called a “sink cabinet” and secured to it with special fasteners. In fact, the countertop sink replaces the countertop of this kitchen cabinet.

Table

Sink mortiseWashing invoiceMounts flush with the kitchen cabinet. In some models, a narrow edging protrudes slightly and is placed on top of the cabinet. There are many options with a built-in countertop. Easily sealed. Careful sealing is required due to the large area of ​​contact with the surface of the cabinet. Installation requires precision down to the millimeter, and in case of replacement or repair of plumbing, the entire structure will have to be disassembled. During installation, some tolerance is possible due to the wide edge part. Repairs and replacements can be made without disassembling the washing cabinet (cabinet) Mortise sinks are more durable and strong (thick metal) The safety margin is smaller due to thinner metal It is not difficult to choose a sink for a kitchen of any size Not an option for a mini-kitchen. Finding a super small overhead sink is very problematic. The bowl is deep, which is a plus when washing a large number of dishes. The sink is generally shallow. Even a small volume of dishes in some models has to be washed in several passes. Excellent design solution. More impersonal and official design. Quite an expensive option. Significantly cheaper than its competitor.

Built-in vs. overhead sink models features

The kitchen is traditionally one of those places in the house where every person spends a fairly large amount of time.

Combining efficiency and aesthetics in this case is extremely important when organizing the internal space

The convenience of preparing food and the possibility of installing high-quality and efficient washing of food and utensils should be taken into account at the initial stages of planning and selecting kitchen components.

Choosing a dishwasher is one of the most critical stages in shaping the overall look for a long period of time.

There are 2 main types of them - mortise and overhead. It is important to understand the features and functionality of each of them, additional features or limitations

Installation of this type of sink is carried out on a specially selected cabinet or countertop. The top all-metal edge is pressed tightly against the surface of the tabletop.

Modern high-quality models involve creating a smooth tabletop surface without scars or gaps. The thin support rim provides added integrity to the overall design. Among the advantages of this type it should be noted:

1. Reliability of the design and absence of “leaks” in additional sealing of joints.
2. Overall durability and strength despite its sophisticated appearance. This is achieved by the greater thickness of the metal compared to overhead-type models.
3. The metal edging of the sink is extremely thin, which allows you to effectively integrate the model into the kitchen ensemble.
4. It is worth noting the compactness of the element, the possibility of free placement anywhere even in the smallest kitchen.

One of the features of using this type of kitchen furniture is a one-time, stable installation with the most precise selection of elements or purchasing a countertop and sink as a set.

Any technical work may also require dismantling the countertop. The sophisticated design and ergonomic placement, however, determine the corresponding price of the equipment. A built-in sink will cost slightly more than its competitor.

If you prefer the versatility or economy of the solutions used, then the best option would be to use a surface-mounted sink. Depending on the specific architecture of the component, it can be freely installed on the tabletop or even replace it.

This ensures fairly large tolerances. Pros:

1. The design features of the models lead to significantly less metal used for manufacturing and the use of simpler technologies, which also implies a low price.
2. A fairly wide side edge allows you to install a new sink to replace the old one without any problems, even if it is slightly smaller.
3. Models that combine a sink and a countertop allow you to simultaneously solve several design problems. When designing and installing a kitchen corner, this option is even more preferable, since water and detergents do not fall on adjacent surfaces.
4. This sink is extremely easy to install. Moreover, it can be installed separately. The cabinets and cabinet can even be adapted later. All dismantling and repair work is also easier and faster.

The negative features of overhead sinks include a much smaller volume of the sink, as well as thinner metal. This somewhat reduces the functionality and durability of the products.

There may also be additional expense and effort required during the installation phase to ensure that the curb edge is completely sealed. Finding a unique model will most likely be extremely difficult.

Almost all samples presented on the domestic market have a similar appearance and characteristics. The choice of a specific model largely depends on the current characteristics of the kitchen, the scale and changes being accepted, and the budget itself.

Creating luxurious conditions and ensuring maximum ergonomics for use, of course, involves the installation of built-in models.

Ultimately, the choice of a specific model and type is a matter of personal taste.

Best models and prices

Oddly enough, the most popular product is not luxury sinks that provide maximum comfort and practicality of use, but affordable models made in Russia and China. In accordance with numerous ratings published on the World Wide Web, the best overhead sinks are considered to be:

1. "Vladix V-401" (Russia). The average cost of such a sink is 925 rubles. The product has a stainless steel frame, a wing on the right side. The advantages of the model are low cost and ease of installation. Disadvantages include thin metal, shallow bowl depth, and the need to install additional supports.
2. UKINOX Standard STD 600.600-4C 0C (Russia). Stainless steel device with compact wing. Installation is carried out depending on the location of the kitchen furniture. The sink belongs to the budget category. Its price tag starts at 1,500 rubles. When purchasing this product, you should prepare for the fact that the quality of the material may not live up to expectations, and it will be easy to get injured on the sharp, unrounded edges
3. Kromrus S-220 (Russia). The product is sold for only 1 thousand rubles. Among the features, it is worth highlighting the variable location of the wing, a large drain hole, and the strength of the metal frame. The only disappointment is the low quality of stamping, which affects the geometry of the sink.
4. Melana MLN-8060. Wide Chinese model with square basin and wing. Made from chromium-nickel steel. Depending on the preferences of customers, on store shelves you can find a sink with a matte, decorated or polished surface. Based on the chosen option, you will have to spend from 1.5 to 3.5 thousand rubles.

Well-known manufacturers of kitchen sinks

Kitchen sinks from European manufacturers have the best reputation. Primarily from Germany, Italy, Spain and the Netherlands. The most famous of them are FRANKE, TEKA, BLANCO, SCHOCK, NAYES, ALVEUS, REGINOX.

Discussion

Not long ago, we finally finished what seemed like a long renovation. I paid the most attention to the kitchen, since I simply love to cook, and spend most of my time in the kitchen. For a very long time I couldn’t decide on a sink, which one to install, having seen it at a friend’s corner sink, and looking at it, I made the same one for myself. But before that, I spent a long time looking for various information (whether it’s worth it and what to look for when choosing a sink). I found an article that was useful for me, it helped me decide on the choice and material of the sink. Our sink has been like new for two years now, stainless steel! We immediately ordered a built-in kitchen with all the appliances from Kitchen Lab on Saikina along with the design project

They arrived on time, assembled well and quickly, and installed all the equipment. We’ve been using it, we’re happy all the time, it’s a good project. It’s better to get it right away in one place, without wasting time on fuss, than to travel to a hundred places and then tear your hair out because the oven didn’t fit into the space provided for its installation (the real situation is with our friends ).I would rather spend my time earning money than saving. Moreover, experts will come up with better ideas. I’ve been convinced a hundred times that it’s more profitable

We have had a stainless steel sink for two years already! We immediately ordered a built-in kitchen with all the appliances from Kitchen Lab on Saikina with the design project. They arrived on time, assembled well and quickly, and installed all the equipment. We’ve been using it, we’re happy all the time, it’s a good project. It’s better to get it right away in one place, without wasting time on fuss, than to travel to a hundred places and then tear your hair out because the oven didn’t fit into the space provided for its installation (the real situation is with our friends ).I would rather spend my time earning money than saving. Moreover, experts will come up with better ideas. I’ve been convinced a hundred times that it’s more profitable

I am for stone or artificial stone, when the countertop and sink are one. This makes cleaning the work surface easier.

Excellent quality antarrid stainless steel sink. The metal is thick, so the water does not make noise and the mixer holds well in its hole, does not move and, accordingly, water does not leak. The metal has such a property that water does not linger on it, droplets are not noticeable.

Good and useful tips for choosing a sink. I will definitely listen to them. A modern kitchen sink is a real work area, which should be equipped with everything necessary and created in the most convenient way for the housewife.

I could never understand the advantages of a side wing, so the author’s opinion about ideality in this case is something purely personal.

In general, nothing new, just general words. Weak.

Comment on the article “Kitchen sinks - buyer’s cheat sheet”

Kitchen sink shape. Sink - mortise or counter-mounted? kitchen sink. And the corner cabinet will not interfere and everything will be convenient if you position the sink correctly. kitchen sink. Please advise which sink is better to buy: stainless steel, chicken granite, enameled.

Discussion

It's simple. Right-handed people hold the plate with their left hand and wash with their right. Therefore, the right-handed wing should be on the left. To put the plate on the right wing, you need to make an extra movement, transfer it from your left hand to your right. That’s why the PMM machine is placed for right-handers to the left of the sink if there is space.

We've done some renovations, we need a kitchen sink, so I'm wondering which one to choose: stainless steel or stainless steel. stone? I really like it made of stone, but I’m wondering how it’s supposed to be used/maintained? and whether the dishes in it will break more often. Now we have an old enameled one, from Soviet times.

Kitchen sink shape. Sink - mortise or counter-mounted? kitchen sink. And the corner cabinet will not interfere and everything will be convenient if you position the sink correctly. Come to the salon on Marshala Rybalko 5, there is such an option (corner…

Choosing a porcelain stoneware sink. - gatherings. Farming. Housekeeping: tips on housekeeping, cleaning, purchasing and using household appliances, repairs, plumbing. Otherwise, everything is made of porcelain stoneware or from the sink - mortise or overhead?

Discussion

Molekula, thank you very much for your feedback. I'm just at the stage of choosing a sink for the kitchen. I want porcelain tiles. My husband is for a budget stainless steel option. I choose exclusively BLANCO. All that remains is to convince my husband that we need her... Do we need her? Rhetorical question...Are you happy with yours this time? No less than 4 years have passed :)

What kind of sink are you installing? Has the kitchen already been assembled or is it being assembled? You can try to agree during assembly that according to the documents you buy what to SEAL the sink with? We had a sink insert that seemed inexpensive. And we discovered%) We have a sink built into the countertop and from the edge...

How to choose the right model

Before deciding which sink is better, mortise or overhead, you need to familiarize yourself with some of its characteristics.

When choosing a kitchen sink, you should pay attention to the following parameters:

• design;
• Dimensions – interested in the size of the sink and its depth;
• product material – stainless steel, ceramics, artificial or natural stone;
• the presence of wings;
• washbasin shape;
• number of bowls;
• price.

You can get acquainted with the characteristics and parameters of the product in a plumbing store, in consultation with a specialist.

Tips for choosing

The overhead sink is made of stainless steel. It is an all-metal or welded structure. Installing the overhead model does not take much time - it is simply installed on top of the countertop. In some designs, an overhead sink replaces the countertop or serves as its continuation.

The advantages of an overhead sink are its low price and ease of installation. However, there are also significant drawbacks. First of all, this is a standard, ordinary design. If you want your kitchen to be equipped according to the latest design standards, then it is better to refuse this model. In addition, you will need to work hard to reliably seal the curb edge.

The difference between a mortise sink and an overhead sink is that it is mounted into kitchen furniture or a countertop that has already been fitted to it. Nowadays, more and more people are interested in inset sinks. This model may require more time to prepare and install, but the type of kitchen in which you spend a lot of time will only benefit from it. In-countertop sinks can come in different shapes and sizes. Their peculiarity is that with their upper edge they are pressed tightly against the surface of the tabletop.

The support rim of the inset sink is made extremely thin, resulting in a sophisticated, holistic kitchen design.

If you want to have a beautiful kitchen design, then an undermount sink is the best option.

Installation of structures

An undermount sink is installed in the countertop, in which a hole is pre-cut to the exact size of the sink. The installation process yourself can be a hassle, so it is better to leave the installation work to specialists.

Installation of an overhead sink is carried out in two stages:

1. Assemble the support cabinet with fixation of the drain, mixer, and connecting hoses.
2. Prepare the sink for installation - treat it with silicone sealant, put in a special rubber gasket, then treat it with sealant again.
3. Secure the sink to the cabinet using self-tapping screws.
4. Connect to the water supply and sewerage system.

Thus, the overhead sink is mounted on a special cabinet from the kitchen unit and is well suited for a modular room.

Types of materials

A countertop kitchen sink can be made from a variety of materials. The most common materials used in the production of kitchen sinks are stainless steel, artificial stone, ceramics and composite. When choosing, remember that an undermount sink should be made of a material that will harmonize primarily with the flooring and countertop.

Stainless steel

Stainless steel mortise sinks have a reasonable price and are resistant to mechanical damage. A built-in stainless steel sink will fit well into the interior if the household appliances in the kitchen have a metallic tint. Such designs are easy to maintain and practical - the plaque formed on the surface can be easily removed with any abrasive detergent. This type of mortise sink has a long service life.

The disadvantages of this mortise model include:

• need for grounding;
• the occurrence of high noise of a water jet when it hits the surface (especially if the mixer is selected too high);
• frequent appearance of limestone deposits and traces of dried water drops.

Fake diamond

Artificial stone consists of a composite, which includes filler and binding elements. The filler can be a natural mineral, and binder polymers (resins) are used for the connection. The advantages of mortise sinks for countertops made of artificial stone include:

• Thanks to a special protective coating and production technology, easy surface care is ensured;
• low noise level when a jet of water hits the surface;
• beauty and naturalness, slight dirt on the surface is almost invisible;
• wide choice of shapes and colors;
• resistance to high temperatures;
• hygiene and environmental safety;
• the appearance does not deteriorate during long-term use;
• Possibility of grinding when scratches appear;
• fits perfectly into any interior.

Disadvantages of mortise sinks made of artificial stone:

• high cost of quality models;
• heavy weight, installation is best done with the help of a specialist;
• cleaning the surface only using a rag/sponge and gentle detergents;
• the need for quick cleaning when tea, coffee or other dyes come into contact.

Ceramics

Advantages of ceramic mortise sinks:

• environmental friendliness: no specific odor;
• resistance to temperature changes and scratches;
• possibility of using various chemicals for cleaning;
• the surface has a dirt-repellent property, so it is easy to clean;
• no noise when water gets in;
• color fastness;
• decorative look.

Flaws:

• heavy weight of the structure, installation will require several people;
• high price;
• the possibility of chipping a mortise sink as a result of being hit by a heavy object.

Composite

Inset sinks made of composite materials have the following advantages:

• shock resistance, no dents will appear on the surface, even if a heavy object falls on the sink;
• resistance to high temperatures;
• wear resistance - the appearance does not deteriorate over time;
• no noise when water gets in;
• ease of care.

Disadvantages of an inset sink made of composite materials:

• high price;
• possibility of damage from abrasive agents;
• deformation upon contact with hot cookware.

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Advantages and disadvantages

The main advantages of countertop kitchen sinks include:

• acceptable price. The products are much cheaper than devices with a different type of fastening;
• possibility of installing the sink on the cabinet yourself;
• long service life. Any high-quality device is resistant to rust stains and corrosion;
• aesthetic appeal;
• practicality.

Despite the impressive advantages, overhead sinks also have significant disadvantages:

• some models are unable to withstand mechanical loads and become deformed;
• insufficiently reliable fixation of the mixer;
• low noise absorption. This parameter directly depends on the thickness of the walls, therefore, in order to avoid annoying sounds, it is recommended to purchase expensive models;
• faded design. This does not apply to premium sinks, which will please the eyes of the household and fit into any interior;
• the possibility of water flowing behind the cabinet from the wall side.

The large list of disadvantages of overhead sinks should not be scary, because ultimately they all belong to budget options, which are also in great demand. If the sink is chosen correctly, the cost savings will not in any way affect the quality and performance of the product.

Advantages and disadvantages

Built-in kitchen sinks have their undoubted advantages:

• thanks to its design, it prevents water from penetrating under the sink;
• you won’t have to spend a lot of money to seal the joints;
• undermount sinks for countertops are strong and durable;
• possibility of placement even in the corner of the kitchen;
• due to their compactness, they can be mounted in various countertops;
• a mortise sink looks more impressive and fits harmoniously into any kitchen ensemble.

However, there are also disadvantages:

• higher cost (compared to overhead models);
• the need for individual selection of kitchen furniture for the sink;
• complete dismantling of the countertop when carrying out plumbing work in the kitchen.

Dimensions and equipment

Standard overhead sinks have the following size options (length and width):

When choosing the size of the bowl, you need to take into account the location of the tap: a bowl that is too wide (80 cm) is not always convenient, because you may have to reach far to the tap. In models with a cabinet, the length of the sink can reach 80 cm. The depth of the sink is also important. It comes in 16, 18, 19 cm. The deeper the bowl, the better it limits water from splashing, the more hygienic it is.

Overhead sinks are installed on the sides of the cabinet. Depending on the cost, the cabinet may be included in the model set or purchased separately.

In more expensive models, the sink kit may include drain fittings and a siphon, as well as cutting boards, colanders and other household accessories. In cheap models, all this is purchased separately.

The sink is not an independent equipment and technical means, such as mixers, are selected and purchased separately.

Installation of all models does not require special skills; they are easy to install without the help of professionals. But if you don’t have the time, desire, self-confidence or the necessary tools, you can contact the household service, where there will always be experienced plumbers and the necessary set of tools.

The price of sinks is influenced by the following indicators:

• complete set of models;
• surface type (matte, decorated, glossy);
• bowl dimensions;
• body thickness.

Thus, we can confidently say that installing a stainless steel countertop sink in the kitchen is far from the worst option. And it’s definitely not the most expensive, especially if you install it yourself.

How does the installation work?

Installation of such a kitchen utensil as a surface-mounted sink is very simple: an appropriate cabinet is selected for the size of the equipment, and with a simple overhead movement both components are attached to each other.

The video shows the entire process of installing a sink into a countertop:

Additional reinforcement should be made inside the cabinet so that the weight immersed in the sink can withstand the total weight, connect the mixer and the device is ready for use. We also recommend that you familiarize yourself with the floor-mounted kitchen cabinet with countertop in this material.

Installing a sink on a cabinet from A to Z

The task of installing an overhead sink in the kitchen can be roughly divided into a couple of stages:

• layout - although the cabinet is not particularly sophisticated in design, it is possible to make a drawing and estimate the dimensions of the sidewalls and the placement of additional elements (drawers, doors, etc.);
• cutting out chipboard pages and assembling the cabinet;
• installing the sink on the cabinet and connecting it to the sewer.

Sketch of a cabinet

The cabinet for the overhead sink must actually match the size of the sink; nothing should support its limits. The sink, upon completion of installation, should look like the completion of the cabinet.

To simplify installation for surface-mounting, it is better to choose a sink without any special design features. Thanks to the geometrically correct shape, it will be easier to achieve a tight fit of the walls of the cabinet to the bottom of the plumbing fixture.

The design of the underframe is not complicated - the simplest option is a frame made of wooden blocks. The size is determined by the dimensions of the sink; if its dimensions are 800x500 mm, then the frame in plan should have the same dimensions.

It is necessary to prepare a drawing of 2 solid walls, a bottom, a plug (closes the gap between the bottom and the floor), and decide on the door and additional equipment of the cabinet (all kinds of drawers and shelves).

Note! When selecting the height of the underframe, it is necessary to proceed from the height of the person. In most cases, a cabinet with a surface-mounted sink about 90 cm high is suitable.

Assembling the underframe and installing the sink

The practical part begins with cutting out the chipboard pages in accordance with the drawings. Here it is fundamentally important not to ruin the edges, since chipboard is a rather capricious material. The cut is made with a jigsaw with a special blade for cutting chipboard (the teeth are bent inward). In addition, for insurance, adhesive tape is glued along the cutting line, and before working with a jigsaw, you can forcefully draw a knife along the line; then with a saw you will only need to cut through the inner layer.