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Hi! I am remodeling my kitchen and installing granite counterops. I have a

cast iron or enamel sink (by Kohler, I think) that is a top mount. I could

re-use that one, but part of the practical part of the solid surface is to

be able to swoosh crumbs right into the sink.

I would like an undermount, but am confused about what type to get. I am

pretty sure I want a white sink (all my appliances are white and relatively

new). I like a cast iron sink, but what about Americast by American

Standard? I was just about ready to get one when I several complaints about

it losing its sheen after 2-3 years. I liked the idea that it was light.

What are the advantages of Silgranit or "granite" sinks?

Though I tend toward cast iron, it seems so heavy for an undermount. Is

there a special process or technique that must be used to secure it so it

won’t drop out of place?

I have "experienced" people doing the work, but I live in a relatively small

area and am not always sure I am talking to someone without a hidden agenda.

Thank you for any information you can supply.

KPeterson

Richard’s Reply:

The quick answer to these questions is that all of these options (cast

iron, "Americast", and "Silgranit") are viable with pluses and minuses.

There are enameled cast iron sinks designed for undermounting, but

they require an extra support cradle built into the sink cabinet

because of the weight. (most undermount sinks are epoxied directly to

the bottom of the granite). The sink rests on the cradle and the top

is installed over it with sealer at the joint. "Amercast" sinks are

enameled over a much lighter substrate but do tend to dull and scratch

a little more without proper care. "Silgranit" type sinks are a

relatively new material of bonded granite that seems to boast a harder,

more scratch resistant surface. They have unique look that won’t

appeal to everyone so it is important to see them before buying.

And Martin Adds:

I wouldn’t rule out stainless undermount sinks. There are some very nice ones out there that are worth looking at. They are very durable and the higher quality brands are very solid.

When it comes to kitchens there are a lot of questions. We don’t have all the answers but we probably know where to find the answers we don’t have and we’ve been through the entire kitchen design/build process hundreds of times. So, pick our brains!

We’ll post the answers to questions that we think apply to our readers in general and the occasional odd, funny or disastrous ones (to help you avoid going down the same path).

For the rest, we’ll reply by email.
All you have to do is send us a brief question via Email. Please limit your questions to one per email. We’re looking forward to hearing from you.

Martin and Richard