We all have them. And sometimes we need new ones – for example, when getting new countertops or during a kitchen renovation. Let’s learn more about sinks:
Material Choices
--Stainless Steel
By far the most popular material for kitchen sinks, stainless steel sinks are heat and stain resistant and are available in a variety of types, styles and sizes. Experts recommend going for a brushed or satin finish rather than a mirror finish - water marks and scratches will be less noticeable. Also, look for sinks that have sound- absorbing pads on the bottom. Prices for stainless steel sinks run the gamut, but you can get a decent quality stainless steel sink for not a lot of money, making it a favorite pick for those on a tight budget. Cost: $100 to $2,000 is typical, but prices can go higher depending on gauge, size and mounting type.
PRO TIP: As with most things, you get what you pay for. A budget stainless steel sink can dent, scratch, and be noisy when water hits it. Thicker stainless steel is a much better buy. Check the gauge (thickness) of your stainless steel sink before you buy. The lower the number the thicker the steel is.
--Ceramic/Porcelain
Ceramic/porcelain sinks are crafted from clay, minerals, and water, which are molded and then fired at high temperatures. The enamel coating gives them a glossy finish and a durable surface that’s resistant to stains and scratches. These sinks are durable, stylish, low-maintenance, heat-resistant and long-lasting, and look great in traditional and shaker-style kitchens.
As with stainless steel, make sure you and take care of your new ceramic sink. It’s rare but they can crack if you drop something very heavy on them. However, you’re more likely to smash any items you drop in the sink (glasses, mugs etc.) as ceramic sinks can be a little less forgiving than stainless steel. Cost: $200 to $900 is typical, but styles and sizes are limited.
--Fireclay
Manufactured from specific clay fired at an extremely high temperature, fireclay sinks are highly resistant to scratches, staining and chipping. FYI, while ceramic sinks are crafted from clay and other materials, fireclay sinks undergo an additional firing at an extremely high temperature, resulting in exceptional strength and durability. Cleanup is easy - just dish soap on a sponge, or use a mild abrasive cleanser for tougher marks. These are a good option for anyone wanting a white sink. Be aware that fireclay sinks can be quite heavy and often need special support. Cost: $400 to $2,000
--Composite Granite
Composite granite sinks are a good option for any kitchen. They are good-looking, durable and don't show water marks or scratches the way stainless steel sinks do. They come in a variety of neutral hues, but the darker grays, browns and black camouflage food debris the best. Although these sinks are durable, they can crack if mishandled. Always inspect your composite sink thoroughly before installation to make sure it suffered no trauma during transit. Cost: $300 to $1,500
--Cast iron
Clad in a tough enamel finish, this is another highly durable sink that is recommended for white sink fans. It comes in other colors, too, but it is suggested to avoid faddish colors for items that you want to keep around for a long time, such as your kitchen sink. Keep in mind that cast iron sinks are heavy, so make sure your cabinets are structurally sound and you provide adequate support for the sink. Cost: $400 to $2,500
--Natural Stone
If you are putting in natural stone countertops, you may want a sink to match. Some stones are susceptible to stains, though, so get a sample of the stone you are considering and test it out to make sure you are happy with how it stands up to staining. Cost: Varies depending on the stone but typically starts around $1,000.
--Quartz
If you're going with a quartz countertop, you have the option of installing a matching quartz sink. One thing to keep in mind with quartz, however, is that the darker, more solid-colored quartzes tend to show scratches and dings much more than lighter colors that have more aggregate or patterning to them. Cost: $800 to $1,200
--Copper
In the market for something different? Copper sinks are big on charm and also happen to be rust-resistant and antimicrobial, making them a great choice for the kitchen. Just be sure to select a high-quality copper sink that is at least 99 percent pure copper - a small amount of zinc may be added for strength. Avoid harsh chemicals with these beauties and instead clean up with a mild soap and water, according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Cost: $500 to $1,200 but can go up depending on gauge and any hand-crafted detailing. PRO TIP: Solid copper sinks have what’s sometimes referred to as a ‘living
Styles Of Kitchen Sink
When it comes to picking a kitchen sink, there are a few styles to choose from. In kitchens, the style of sink is often dependent on the installation method. For instance, an undermount sink is a style of sink, but it’s also how it is installed. So when you think of style, think of installation as much as you think of the look. The type of worktop that you have will dictate whether or not certain sink styles are possible to install in your kitchen.
Here are the four most common types of kitchen sink:
Inset
Another popular option, inset sinks (sometimes called sit-on, top-mounted or drop-in sinks) sit on top of your worktop. This creates a little lip that goes over your worktop, rather than a smooth dip into your sink (as with undermount styles).
Easy to install and typically cheaper to buy, inset sinks will work with any type of worktop you choose. Perfect if you’re on a budget!
Flush Mounted
The sleek, modern design of a flush-mounted sink falls somewhere in between inset and undermount styles. A flush-mounted sink, as you may expect, sits flush on the worktop. The worktop needs to be routed out so that the lip of the sink sits within the worktop to create that flush finish.
Apron (Farmhouse)
This style of sink that sits on top of a base cabinet rather than in or on the worktop. The front edge of the sink usually sits out a little from the base cabinet doors, leaving the front edge exposed, and the worktop overhangs the sink on the back and sides.
PRO TIP: The size of your sink doesn’t just depend on, or impact, worktop space. Bigger sinks require wider cabinets underneath them, which can limit your choice of design. If you want a bigger sink, you may need to redesign your layout to give you a bigger sink cabinet. So, make sure to check the width of your sink cabinet before falling in love with a style of sink.
Specialty Sinks
Round
Round sinks have become far less popular these days as they are typically a bit smaller. This makes them a bit tricky for washing larger pots and trays (the chance of creating a waterfall down the front of your cabinet is high!). However, if you’re looking for a compact retro feel, then a round sink could be perfect for you.
Prep
A prep sink is a small secondary sink, usually on a kitchen island. It’s not used as your main sink, but rather as a quick access sink to wash fruit and veggies or fill pans with water.
They are great if you have a large kitchen and do your main prep work away from your main sink area. Also handy if you’re washing up halfway through a meal but still need to clean those carrots!
Champagne (Trough)
A champagne sink isn’t exactly a sink, as you don’t normally have a faucet with it. A champagne sink (or trough) comes in different shapes and sizes and is filled with ice to keep drinks (not just champagne) cool.
It is by no means an essential item (although some may argue otherwise!), but it is a little luxury that really adds some extravagance to your kitchen. A champagne sink is perfect if you love to host parties, too!
How Many Bowls?
Single Bowl
A single bowl sink is nice and simple, and probably the most popular choice with clients these days. A good size single bowl sink is ideal for washing bigger pans and trays while not taking up too much worktop or cabinet space in your kitchen.
1.5 Bowl
A 1.5 bowl sink is a great option for those who like to rinse off as they wash up. It’s also great if you want to add a waste disposal unit separate from the main bowl.
Double Bowl
Double bowl sinks are ideal for busy households that have lots of washing up to do and need space to prep or rinse at the same time. In reality, what often happens with these types of sinks is that one bowl is the dumping ground to hide dirty crockery and the other bowl is left empty for washing up. Think about your needs and what suits your family best!
Design Tip
Are farmhouse sinks out of style? No, in fact they are still very popular. Farmhouse sinks have a timeless appeal that’s not tied to any passing trend. Their classic design, combined with their practical benefits, ensures they’ll never go out of style. One of the biggest advantages of farmhouse sinks is their spaciousness. Their deep basins offer plenty of room for washing large pots and pans, making cleanup a breeze. This is especially handy during large family gatherings or when cooking large meals. Farmhouse sinks can evoke a sense of nostalgia, reminding us of simpler times. This can make your kitchen feel more comforting and inviting, turning it into a space where your family loves to gather.
Did You Know: Farmhouse sinks have roots in traditional European design (google Belfast sinks), and were not invented by Joanna and Chip!
What is the best window covering for over the sink?
If they're near the sink, stove or other food-prep areas where your shades may come into contact with water, steam or grease splatters, you might consider faux wood blinds, faux wood shutters or vinyl roller shades because they're very durable and easy to clean with a damp cloth.
