Can laminate countertops support an undermount sink like the one pictured?
Asked by Julius Back 
6 months ago
Last Updated: May 14, 2024
Can you use an undermount sink with laminate countertops? I’m thinking of using the sink in the picture.
You have the option to do that, but be cautious as frequent water exposure could lead to the laminated edge detaching. If that occurs, the wood underneath may swell, making repair impossible. I recently faced this choice during my cabin construction and decided to purchase live edge slabs for an undermount installation, treating them with Tung oil. Installing a drop-in sink just didn’t align with my preferences.
I hadn’t considered the frequent exposure to water. Like you, I really admire the appearance of undermount sinks. Live edge slabs are new to me, I’ll definitely look into them. Is there a specific waterproof epoxy that can be used to safeguard it from water damage?
Some people opt for epoxy on live edge slabs, but it tends to wear off over time and can display cut marks. Tung oil is a great alternative to protect the slab and enhance the wood grain beautifully. Just remember to avoid placing hot items or using it as a cutting board, unless you’re going for that rustic look, which some people appreciate. I have a close friend who has maintained a stunning butcher block island using only Tung oil for over 7 years. She simply reapplies Tung oil every year or so.
My fabricator handles those. They use specific adhesives that are necessary to maintain the warranty. I wouldn’t recommend going against their advice. Once a corner is damaged and water seeps in, it’s game over.
You have the ability to, but it’s not advisable.
Check out this link for various options for undermount sinks: https://www.formica.com/en-us/articles/home-design/sink-options_undermount
This seems like a disaster waiting to happen.
There are sinks specifically made from Karran, but as others have mentioned, it may not be the best long-term investment. The inner edge near the sink tends to get grimy over time. I know it’s not exactly the same, but there are drop-in sinks with a sleek, modern look instead of the bulky traditional ones.
You could, but not with THAT sink. There are sinks specifically designed for undermounting with laminate. There aren’t many options available.
Why go for laminate countertops? Granite and quartz are surprisingly affordable.
I’m in the process of gathering quotes for quartz. The estimates I received were between $4k-5k for countertops, which was much higher than I expected given my limited counter space.
Quartz is a bit pricey. I paid $1200 for my laminate with the quartz under mount sink attached.
You can easily find basic granite for less than $60 per square foot including installation. It’s really budget-friendly.
And laminate typically costs about $20 per linear foot.
And valued at around $2
Brought up a good point – it’s hard to find someone willing to install laminate for $10/sf. Back in the early 90s, I used to charge $30/sf for laminate countertops.
Mentioned that laminate tends to have a longer lifespan than our changing tastes. It might not be the best choice for a starter home like mine. I prefer to invest in high-quality flooring instead of laminate.
Hey there, I’m and I’m in the process of installing myself!
I wouldn’t recommend putting the 2 together. It won’t hold up well.
Yes, I had mine installed when I ordered my laminate. The weight of the quartz sink made installation difficult and resulted in a tear in the laminate. I ended up getting a replacement, but it’s quite heavy!
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If you’re talking about a Formica-type laminate countertop where you have to cut it out for the sink, then the answer is no. The exposed substrate from the cutout, usually particle board or plywood, wouldn’t hold up well against constant water contact and would look unsightly. The one in your photo has an undermount sink that is bonded to a solid surface countertop as a single piece.