Sinks for Granite Countertops

Undermount Sinks

Undermount sinks attach below the stone so the countertop edge is exposed around the basin. This gives the cleanest look and lets you wipe crumbs straight into the sink. The cutout edge is polished, and the reveal — how much of the sink rim is visible inside the cutout — is a deliberate choice: a zero or negative reveal hides the rim, while a positive reveal shows a small ledge. Undermount sinks require a support method appropriate to the sink's weight and material.

Drop-In Sinks

Drop-in sinks sit on top of the stone with the rim covering the cutout edge. They are typically less expensive to fabricate because the cutout edge does not need polishing, and they remain a practical option, particularly in secondary spaces. The trade-off is a visible rim that collects residue where it meets the counter.

Farmhouse and Apron-Front Sinks

Apron-front sinks are set into modified cabinetry and generally need to be installed, or at minimum fully specified and on site, before templating. The stone is fabricated to meet the sink with a specific relationship at the front, and small variations in how the sink sits change that relationship. Fireclay sinks in particular can vary slightly in dimension from unit to unit, which is exactly why templating is done to your actual sink.

Cutouts, Faucet Holes and Accessories

• The cutout is machined to your sink's template, so the sink model must be final before fabrication.
• Faucet configurations differ: single hole, 4-inch centerset, 8-inch widespread, or wall-mounted with no holes.
• Accessory holes for soap dispensers, filtered water taps, air switches for disposals and pot fillers should be decided in advance.
• Hole placement needs to clear the sink rim, backsplash and any window sill behind the counter.
• Drilling additional holes after installation is sometimes possible but is riskier than drilling in the shop.

Support and Plumbing Coordination

Heavy sinks — cast iron and some fireclay models — need support that does not rely on adhesive alone. Support methods include mounting rails, brackets or a plywood cradle inside the cabinet, chosen for the sink and cabinet involved. On the plumbing side, expect disconnection before removal or templating and reconnection after the stone is set and cured. Many homeowners take the opportunity to replace supply valves, the disposal or the drain assembly while access is open.