Thank you for your business over the years. We are no longer accepting orders for MR Direct products. Please visit Elkay Where to Buy for your sink and faucet needs. For any warranty related questions related to Mr. Direct, Polaris, Sir Faucet and Solera brands please reach out to consumer@elkay.com or 1-800-223-5529.

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Discover DIY How-To's, design inspiration & more!

Your Home. Your Style.

Browse trending styles and create a space that is functional, beautiful, and built for everyday life.

Immerse Yourself In Our Latest Stories

Discover DIY How-To's, design inspiration & more!

Your Home. Your Style.

Browse trending styles and create a space that is functional, beautiful, and built for everyday life.

Immerse Yourself In Our Latest Stories

Discover DIY How-To's, design inspiration & more!

Your Home. Your Style.

Browse trending styles and create a space that is functional, beautiful, and built for everyday life.

About MR Direct

Our philosophy is simple. We believe everyone should be able to purchase high-quality, stylish products at reasonable prices. That's why we offer over 400 products, ranging in styles from our high-end vessel sinks to our traditional farmhouse apron line. We provide you with numerous, money-saving options so you can do more than just afford the home of your dreams.

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To See or Not to See
April 2, 2012

When shopping for a sink, there are many things to contemplate. One very important point, that many people overlook, is the mounting style and its importance to the overall kitchen. There are three mounting styles for kitchen sinks: topmount, undermount and apron. Each of these mounting options has unique attributes that should be considered when sink shopping.

Topmount

Topmounting has an exposed rim which has been the protocol for kitchen sinks for decades. An appropriately shaped hole is roughly cut into the countertop in preparation for the sink installation. The sink is then "dropped" into place and sealed shut. A concern for cleanliness has been expressed due to the exposed rim being raised from the countertop. In the past few years, sink technology has advanced to offer the same strong sink with a thinner lip. Brushing crumbs and water into the sink is a lot easier and the thinner lip provides a sleeker look that looks great with any décor.

Undermount

Undermount sink ledges are not to be seen. They are great for kitchens that need to save counter space and homeowners who want a smooth transition from countertop to sink bowl. An undermounted sink is installed below the countertop with the ledge of the countertop visible. Because this ledge is visible, it is important that the countertop is cut evenly. This is a great choice for a total kitchen remodel so the countertop can be cut precisely for the sink. Clean-up is a breeze since you just wipe crumbs and dirt directly into the sink without any barrier. Many modern kitchen styles opt for an undermount because it has clean lines and a sleek look.

Apron

Apron sinks are definitely visible. That’s the point. An apron sink has an exposed front and sometimes exposed rims. Because so much of it is exposed, the cabinetry must be specially made for this mounting type. Apron sinks offer a larger basin and have a little "reach-over" for access to the sink. This look traditionally fits into a country-style, but is becoming more popular in a variety of designs.

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