With the growing popularity of undermount sinks, now you can find varieties in many types of materials including stainless steel, copper and granite. Granite undermount sinks come in two different varieties: solid or composite.
Solid Granite Sinks vs Composite
Solid granite is just what the name says – a solid piece which has been carved into a desired shape. Sinks like these can actually be part of the counter piece – a continuation of the granite counter. These sinks aren’t technically under mounted because they are a continuous part of the counter.
Solid granite sinks are generally very expensive. Some can cost up to $4000 dollars. They also need to be sealed to prevent staining. For the kitchen area, small particles such as coffee grounds can get stuck in the small depressions found in granite. Often kitchen sinks of granite will have a stainless steel basin at the very bottom of the sink to aid in the ease of cleaning the area.
Composite
Undermount composite granite sinks are available which offer a product with many of the advantages of granite but for a fraction of the cost. Composites consist of particles of granite held together with a man produced binder. The granite in the mixture offers durability and hardness. The product can resist heat – often up to around 450-500 degrees Fahrenheit.
Because composite sinks can be formed into whatever shape is desired, there are many choices in form – from single to double to large with small sinks. Because granite particles are relatively inexpensive, prices are much less than solid sinks.
Granite composite sinks come in a variety of styles, undermounting being one popular choice. The mounting process is very similar to the process for mounting stainless steel undermount sinks.
The colors, however, are more restricted than for solid carved sinks. If you want granite sinks for the look, you may have to stick with the more expensive variety. If you are looking for the durability and strength offered, then a composite may be the answer for you.