Undermount Basins Buying Guide
An undermount basin, also called an under counter basin, is fixed beneath the benchtop so the rim is hidden and the bench runs unbroken to the edge of the bowl. This collection includes undermount basins from Caroma, ADP, Turner Hastings and Timberline, in vitreous china, fine fireclay and solid surface, in round, rectangle, square and pill shapes and in white, matte white, matte black and matte speckled finishes.
What is an undermount basin?
An undermount basin sits below a cut-out in the vanity top and is fixed to the underside with clips and adhesive. Only the inside of the bowl shows. Water and crumbs can be wiped straight off the bench into the basin, and the benchtop becomes the feature of the vanity. To keep it looking good, wipe the bowl with a mild, non-abrasive detergent and keep the seal under the bench dry.
Which benchtops suit an undermount basin?
An undermount basin needs a solid benchtop that can be cut precisely and has a sealed edge, such as engineered stone, natural stone or solid surface. Sealed solid timber can also work. Laminate is not recommended, because the exposed core at the cut-out can swell if water gets in. For a laminate top, choose an inset basin instead.
What are the pros and cons of an undermount basin?
The benefits are a clean, built-in look, more usable bench space and an easy-to-clean surface. The trade-offs are that the basin must be chosen before the benchtop is made, the join under the bench must be neatly sealed, and there is no tap ledge on the basin, so the tap goes on the bench or the wall.
Do undermount basins have tap holes?
No. Undermount basins have no tap hole, so the mixer is mounted on the benchtop behind the bowl or on the wall. The Caroma Riviere under counter basin suits either option, and the Turner Hastings Standard Agres has no pre-formed tap holes. Decide the tap position before the benchtop is cut and drilled.
What size undermount basin do I need?
Choose a basin that suits the vanity width and leaves enough bench around it. Compact options include the Turner Hastings Mini Agres 44 x 26 and the ADP Hope 495 x 255. Standard sizes include the ADP Charlotte 425 x 425, ADP Miranda 550 x 380 and Turner Hastings Narva 57 x 39 pill. Give the cut-out size from the product drawing to your benchtop maker.
Do undermount basins have an overflow?
Some do. The Caroma Riviere under counter basin is available with or without an overflow, and the Caroma Liano II 440mm round under/over counter basin includes one. A basin with an overflow needs a slotted basin waste; one without needs an unslotted waste.
Completing the room
Pair your basin with a basin mixer or a wall basin mixer set, and choose a vanity from bathroom vanities and furniture.
