Undermount Sink help!

[everylastbreath]

Ok- so I have a meganite counter top with built in sink which has been nothing but problems since we got it- The sink has developed stress cracks, the manufacturer keeps replacing it (been replaced about 3x's already) and the same thing happens in a couple of years, so I have convinced the manufacturer to remove the sink and replace it with an undermount stainless steel one- now I need some advice, what do I tell them I want to make sure this is done correctly? I know nothing about undermounting sinks, is there a brand of sink that I should make sure I get or a specific method of undermounting? Help! need advice please!

 

[01spirit750]

You want a thick "gauge" stainless steel sink. (The smaller the numbers the thicker the steel. For example 14 gauge it thicker then 16 gauge).

My wife insisted on Franke. I was in for sticker shock. But after having it for 8years it is a good quality sink.

The only problem with undermount sinks is that they are difficult (expensive) to replace. A top mount sink is simple to replace and only takes about an hour or so. So you need to really think about whether you will ever want to replace this sink again?

http://frankeusa.com/

 

[mhconley]

This may sound dumb but make sure it is a true undermount sink. The last new home we bought we paid big bucks to upgrade to an undermount sink and the bozo builder put a standard top mount sink in the hole in the cabinets, put the countertop over top of it and filled in the gaps with silicon. Four years down the road the sink pulled away from the countertop because the wood holding it in place started rotting. Unbelievable...

Martin

 

[scard192]

I have a Franke sink as well and have been very happy with it. I paid around $275 two years ago; I get tons of compliments on the sink.

 

[everylastbreath]

Ok, so I guess I need to get a Franke Sink, but what gauge? and about how much should it cost? I don't want to be unreasonable, but I don't want to get ripped off either- Is there any specific things I should request in installation? should it meet flush with counter? is there any gaps? tell me what I should make sure to check they have done or make sure I request they do?

 

[01spirit750]

Regarding Gauge, it looks like the thickest gauge Franke makes is 18 gauge so that is what you want.

Go to www.frankeusa.com, then navigate thru:
Products
Stainless steel sinks
double bowl

Per the previous poster, yes confirm you get a true undemount sink. An undermount sink will have a flat flange that mounts tight to the bottom of the counter. A top mount has a decorative bead.