Replacing the kitchen sink may seem like a small upgrade for many people, but celebrity contractor Mike Holmes believes it’s actually one of those decisions that should be taken seriously, as it can significantly improve the functionality of the space. If you are in the process of changing your sink, you might want to consider one of Holmes’ top recommendations for a kitchen update. For the “Holmes on Homes” star, choosing the right sink can help simplify daily tasks and make the entire space more hygienic. “Consider your kitchen habits before choosing single vs. double basins. Undermount sinks make cleanup easy because it eliminates the mounting rim that sits on top of your counter,” he wrote on his Make It Right blog.

For Holmes, you can never go wrong with an undermount sink because it eliminates the pronounced border of traditional designs. Hence, cleaning the area is as easy as swiping crumbs and spills right into the basin without them getting stuck on the edges. As someone known for his practical and function-first approach to home improvement, Holmes’ advice shows how your kitchen habits should be a big factor when choosing a sink. If you often prepare large meals and clean big pots and pans afterward, a single deep basin would make sense in your kitchen area. However, if you prefer separating washing from rinsing or want separate basins for the dirty dishes and food prep, a double basin is a better option. 

Since a kitchen sink requires so many things to function, you need to assess your working area first before you can follow Mike Holmes’ design advice. Take note of the plumbing line, counter material, and other features that will be affected when the renovation is underway. Unlike the more common drop-in sink, an undermount goes directly below the countertop to create a seamless junction that makes washing and cleaning easier. However, this means the countertop should be solid and stable enough to carry the weight of the sink without warping or cracking in the long run. As such, only solid surface countertops, like granite, marble, or quartz, work well for this design. 

After choosing your undermount sink design, measure the exact dimensions of the sink outline on the countertop. Precision is crucial in this step so the sink stays flush with the countertop cutout once sealed. Next, apply silicone caulk around the edge of the cutout and then position the sink below it using mounting clips or a specialized bracket system to secure it in place while the adhesive settles and dries up. It’s important to have a watertight seal to prevent leaks and ensure the integrity of the sink and countertop combo. 

If you think the modification required to install the new sink is too demanding for a DIY project, consider hiring a professional installer. This way, you can be sure of the quality of work and prevent it from becoming one of those home upgrades Mike Holmes feels are a waste of money. By following Mike Holmes’ advice, you can have a stylish, easy-to-clean, and functional upgrade for your kitchen.