Most individuals prefer to install their undermount sinks on stone or granite countertops because of their strength. Laminate is weak and might crack or bend if supporting a very heavy sink.
Does this mean that you can’t install an undermount sink with a laminate countertop? Not at all. You can set up the sink with ease if you get a lighter sink and stronger glues and adhesives.
In this post, we give a comprehensive guide on how you can install an undermount sink with laminate countertops and why you should consider getting the countertop for your kitchen.
What is an Undermount Sink?
An undermount sink is installed beneath the countertop as opposed to an overmount, which is installed at the top of the counter. It hangs underneath the countertop and creates a continuous flow from the counter to the sink.
It is designed to be sturdy enough to hold heavy weights.
Made from stainless steel, cast iron, or ceramic, an undermount sink needs to be installed on a solid countertop to ensure that it won’t tumble down as you use it.
Read also: how do you measure an undermount sink
Can You Install an Undermount Sink with Laminate Countertops?
A laminate countertop can support an undermount sink with ease. You only need to ensure that you have the proper reinforcement to support the sink you intend to install since sinks vary in weight.
Use strong adhesive, specially made for undermount sinks, to glue the sink into the countertop. Note that a strong downward force is exerted in the bond when the sink is filled with water.
The bond should be strong enough to withstand the downward force for the installation of the sink to be secure. You, therefore, need to use a suitable adhesive for the job.
Also, check the material of the undermount sink you intend to attach to a laminate countertop. Reason? Not all sinks are made from materials that you can connect to this countertop.
For instance, some stainless steel sinks feature steel-rolled rims that don’t meet the specs. Most acrylic undermount sinks come with the best rim for easy installation with laminate countertops.
Also, always remember to go for a light sink since laminates work best with less weight.
How to Install an Undermount Sink with Laminate Countertops
Materials and Tools You’ll Require:
- An undermount sink of your choice
- Laminate countertop
- Adhesive glue
- A template of the sink
- A saber or hand saw
- A sheet of laminate
- Measuring tape
- Screws
- Power drill
- A pencil/marker
- Putty
- Denatured alcohol and a clean cloth
The Sink Installation Process
- Step 1: Draw the Sink Outline on the Countertop
Lay the laminate countertop upside down and place the sink template to get an outline. Mark the spot for the sink by drawing around the template with a pencil.
- Step 2: Cut the Opening on the Countertop
Get the power drill and cut an opening in the countertop. For the best results, drill a hole in the corner first.
Next, use your hand saw to cut around the space in line with the pencil marks.
Mark and drill the holes for mounting the screws.
- Step 3: Clean the Cut Edges
Using the denatured alcohol and clean cloth, clean around the edges of the cutout opening and the sink edges.
Cover the edge of the hole on the outer side of the sheet with glue and wipe off the excess using a chisel.
- Step 4: Drop the Sink in the Opening
Turn over the laminate countertop and carefully fit it in the sink according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Next, install the faucets and apply putty to ensure that the water supply lines and connections do not leak.
- Step 5: Connect the plumbing
Once the sink is set, it is time to connect all plumbing components under the sink. Turn on the water to ensure that everything is up to the mark and that there are no leakages.
In case of leaks, tighten all fittings properly.
Why Should You Choose a Laminate Countertop for Your Undermount Sink?
Modern laminated countertops have many benefits. Listed below are some of these advantages.
- DIY-friendly and easy to install – Laminate is lightweight and easy to install without professional help.
- Budget-friendly – If you usually change your décor from time to time, you need to install one that isn’t too expensive. Laminate is your best bet for a kitchen remodel on a budget.
- Easy to clean and maintain – You can clean laminate using household materials. You don’t require special detergents to complete the task.
- Variety of options – Laminate countertops can mimic expensive materials like wood and marble at an affordable price. You can also cut the laminate sheeting to any design, meaning that you can design your space to the style of your liking.
- Can be custom-built – Laminate countertops are available as custom-built designs, or you can purchase a ready-made version of the shelf. You can also get laminate sheeting for DIY.
Potential Laminate Countertop Problems
There are a few issues associated with laminated countertops that you should consider before you buy.
- Can melt – Laminate is plastic and can melt if exposed to too much heat. Avoid placing hot items directly onto the countertop to prevent damage.
- Not Durable – These countertops have a shorter lifespan, especially if not well taken care of. Avoid cleaning with steel wool or abrasives.
- Not easy to repair – Once damaged, you might be forced to replace the entire countertop since repairing it isn’t an easy task.
- Weak – A laminate countertop can have weak points around the seams if poorly installed. It might not even support the weight of an undermount sink. If the laminate is weak, it might bend or crack if the sink’s bond with the particle bond is broken. Also, if additional weight is placed in the undermount sink, the bond may weaken, leading to the sagging of the sink. Should the sink sag, it pulls down the edge of the countertop, causing damage.
Conclusion
You can install an undermount sink with laminate countertops(source). The only concern when using the counter is the strength of the laminate and its stability.
Get a lighter sink and use strong adhesives to glue the undermount sink into the countertop for the best results.