Older laminate counter tops required careful sealing from water to prevent damage. In older kitchens, most sinks extended above and curved over the counter top material. This design, called an "overmount", allowed a strong seal between the counter and sink, but left and edge than could be very difficult to keep spotlessly clean. Overmount skins are often found in both stainless steel and porcelain, and remain a popular option with many laminate counter tops.

With the variety and appeal of granite, stone and manufactured solid surface counter tops, standard sink designs are no longer a homeowner's only choice. Newer counter top materials are impervious to water, and will not warp or split, even with prolonged exposure. These qualities allowed designers to create the "undermount" sink. The counter top material appears continuous, with the sink visible only below the counter. In addition to a more elegant, finished appearance, the undermount sink prevents the accumulation of material around the edge of the sink. Many homeowner's prefer this modern, cleaner look, as well as the ease and maintainability.

Undermount kitchen sinks are easy to maintain and that makes it great for functionality. Many prefer black kitchen sinks so that they do not show dirt or grime.