Sit-on or inset sink? Differences and advice

12.12.2022

Category: Practical tips in the kitchen

Author: Mexen

A sink is an essential element of every kitchen. The available devices on the market can differ not only in colour, shape, or size, but also in the sink installation method. The most popular installation methods are the sink mounted on the surface of the kitchen cabinet and the sink inset into the plane of the worktop. The method of installing the sink does not affect its later use in any way, and an inset sink is just as functional as the sit-on version.

Sit-on sink – when is this installation better?

A sit-on sink is the most common solution, which is also quite cheap and universal. Sinks mounted on a kitchen cabinet are available in standard sizes that fit most mass-produced cabinets. Sit-on sinks can be purchased in sizes from 40 to even 80 cm, and are available in both single and double-bowl models.

The installation of such a sink takes very little time, you simply place it on the cabinet and cover its upper surface with sanitary silicone, which simultaneously affixes the sink and seals the installation points. After placing the sink, it is good to weight it evenly for the time necessary for the silicone to bind the sink edges and the cabinet edges. Next, the siphon and possibly the overflow are installed. The sequence of actions is indicated by the enclosed installation instructions.

Inset sinks – for custom-made furniture

When you decide on a kitchen countertop, the best solution is an inset sink. The installation of such a device requires more effort than a sit-on sink. To install it, a precisely cut hole in the kitchen countertop is required. First, check the level of the countertop, then trace the exact shape of the countertop and measure the distance from the countertop contours to the mounting clips. Only then can you mark the inner contour according to which a hole will be cut, where the sink will be inset.

The above actions require not only skill but also specialist tools, it is not an easy installation, so it is worth leaving it to the professionals. A precise cut through is possible in various types of kitchen countertops. An inset sink is mounted with fastening clips, which should be securely tightened after placing the sink in the cut hole. As you can see, the question of whether to choose a sit-on or inset sink involves an obvious complication related to installation - this also needs to be taken into account!

inset sink

Sit-on or inset into the countertop?

The decision on the type of sink depends largely on how the kitchen is arranged, mainly on whether there is a custom-made countertop, or whether the room is equipped with ready-made furniture sets. In the case of a purchased set of cabinets, a sit-on sink is definitely a better choice, with its edge slightly above the cabinet surface. The installation of this type of sink is very easy.

If you want a countertop where the sink is flush with its surface, an inset sink would be a better choice. This involves the necessity to cut a suitable hole in the countertop, which means needing a specialist's help. Placing the sink in the countertop requires a lot of precision and accuracy. Unfortunately, this usually generates additional costs but guarantees a unique effect.

In terms of functionality, both sit-on and inset sinks are equally good. However, it is worth noting that regarding the type of countertop, for a countertop made of wood, a sit-on sink might be a slightly better choice. So, are you choosing a sit-on or inset sink for your countertop?