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Can I reuse lovely cast iron drop-in sink with soapstone counter?

11 years ago

I want to install new countertops--probably soapstone but also perhaps something like Witch Hazel Corian. I started to look for a new sink that has the same qualities as my current sink (a Kohler Epicurean) but couldn't find anything that I liked nearly as well and/or that would fit the current cabinet and plumbing configuration we have. My current sink is a white, top-of-the-line, cast iron Kohler but is nearly twenty years old.

It has a large 9-10" deep bowl on the left, a small 5-6" deep bowl in the middle where our disposal is (this is perfect to drain something or rinse veggies while the main sink is being used for other things because we do not have a prep sink area) and an integrated drainboard that is practical for a variety of uses. I like the sink, and it is in pretty pristine condition with only some minor scratching in the small bowl because I've always used a sink mat in the large bowl. The sink also fits the look of our pretty much timeless kitchen with the inset door birch cabinets of the 1920's to 1930's (some original and some custom built to match).

Would we be foolish to install expensive new counters built around a sink that is not brand new? I did find one brand new of this now discontinued model in the wrong color for me, and is is still being sold at $1500.

Here is a link to the sink.
http://www.us.kohler.com/us/catalog/partProductDetails.jsp?productId=418775&prodColor=&isProductDiscontinued=true&_requestid=4592037

Our current counters are tile with a contrasting bullnose edging. Is there a problem with mounting a sink on top of soapstone or Corian rather than having the undermount everyone has today? Thanks.

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Comments (8)

cookncarpenter
11 years ago
The only problem is for you to be able to wipe down the counter into the sink. If you are happy with this,
then I say keep the sink if you like it!
julieste
Original Author
11 years ago
I know it is easier to just wipe straight into the sink with the undermount. I've lived with this for years and am used to it, so that is not a deal breaker.
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CEFreeman
11 years ago
So what's the reason you couldn't!?!

Even if it were chipped or worn, you could save a lot of money and have the sink you love having it reglazed.

Just like letting someone talk you out of something you want, if you love this, go with it. Think about saying for the next 20 years, "Yes, this new one is nice, but my old one...."

I'd keep it.
julieste
Original Author
11 years ago
I guess my primary concern is wondering with a stone countertop if one can not use a top mount sink. Everyone these days is going with undermount, and I was wondering if there is a technical or installation reason why I can't use this drop in. And, my taste is not always what everyone is doing anyway.

So, it sounds as though there are no structural reasons why this wouldn't work.

Thanks.
angie_diy
11 years ago
To be explicit: Yes, you are right, you can use a drop-in sink with stone.
CEFreeman
11 years ago
No, none whatsoever.
You can sure bet it would be a topic beaten to death on this board if there were trouble.

I think you'll end up with a kitchen you love because your sink will be a non-issue! :)

And to this forced re-user, reusing is a good thing. Particularly when there's no reason you can't have what you want.

Don't forget pics!
julieste
Original Author
11 years ago
I think I am more and more inclined to keep this. I also just read another thread about one of the varieties of soapstone I was contemplating, and someone who has that soapstone specifically warns against using an undermount sink with that paritcular stone.

Thanks all.
Dave
2 months ago
This reply is very late, but it is possible to install a self-rimming Kohler Epicurean sink below like an undermount sink. Tile is no longer popular, so my 1987 install of this sink would most likely require some other countertop surface now. I wanted the convenience of a countertop that drained into the sink for easy cleaning. Just be sure to replace the silicone mold-resistant caulking around the joint that is missing in this photo.

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