Just because kitchen sinks and faucets are necessities doesn’t mean shopping for them is easy. There are endless styles available: deep kitchen sinks, standard bowls, double bowls, stainless steel, copper, single-lever faucets, two handles… the list goes on. Figuring out which functions best is one battle, then you need to determine which will look best in your kitchen. These tips will help you narrow down the kitchen sinks and faucets out there to find the best match for your home.

Shopping For Kitchen Sinks

The two major factors when buying a kitchen sink are size and material.

Size: Determining what size is best for you requires a little evaluation. Think about your kitchen cabinets, how you use your sink, and the size of the room overall. The layout is often a factor, as those with smaller kitchens are more likely to prefer a standard bowl. If you live alone or rarely cook, the desire for a double bowl or oversized bowl might not be there either.

On the other hand, if you are an avid home cook or entertain often, a double bowl sink might be in order. Those with large families and lots of dishes also favor double bowls and deep kitchen sinks. While dishes may go in the dishwasher, it’s much easier to maneuver pots and pans with a deep basin. An apron front sink is another favorite for its accommodating design and unique farmhouse look.

What it ultimately comes down to is how much space you can afford to put towards your kitchen sink, and how you use it from day to day.

Material: You’ll find kitchen sinks in a variety of different materials, including enamel-coated cast iron, stainless steel, and copper. Stainless steel sinks are the most popular choice since they are easy to clean, affordable, and durable.

Is all stainless steel equal? No, you’ll find different features listed on different products. Lower-gauge is the best quality, and if you don’t like stainless steel because it’s loud, then look for a style that absorbs sound.

If you like the look of a farmhouse sink, then you’re probably leaning towards enamel or copper. Both enamel-coated cast iron and copper sinks are quality options; you just have to be a little more loving than you would with stainless steel. You’ll also come across acrylic sinks, but just keep in mind that while their price is low so is their lifespan.

New to the scene are AstraGranite sinks. Made from 80% quartzite and 20% acrylic, this durable material is extremely scratch resistant, completely stain resistant, can withstand heat up to 550 degrees, and is unaffected by household acids and cleaners. The acrylic acts as a natural sound dampener making it very quiet.  Additionally, there are silver ions in the sink that kill 99% of bacteria on contact. AstraGranite sinks are available at The RTA Store online, and come in a variety or colors.

Shopping For Kitchen Sink Faucets

Some faucet features are more durable than others and while you may prefer one finish to the other, some are just better suited for the kitchen.

Features: A single-lever faucet looks a little sleeker and also makes changing temperatures easier. But if you don’t find a faucet with two handles inconvenient and you prefer the look, the choice is yours. There is really no benefit either way.

As far as construction goes, look for faucets with a solid brass base and ceramic disk valve. These materials have the greatest durability.

In regards to style, high arc faucets are attractive and provide more workspace over the sink, while a low spout offers a less obstructed view when located near a window, kitchen island, or below low hanging cabinets that would restrict the height of your faucet.

Finish: Chrome is the most common faucet finish, while nickel, bronze, and pewter are also popular and excellent choices. However you might want to skip brass. In a high traffic place like the kitchen, brass is not the best choice for a faucet. The unique look is definitely appealing (and it looks great next to certain finishes of kitchen cabinets), but brass is better off in a guest bathroom or other low traffic area. 

 

At The RTA Store we help make your dream kitchen a reality with RTA (Ready To Assemble) and Pre-Assembled kitchen cabinets, and accessories with the same (if not better) quality you would find at any retail store but for a fraction of the price. Stop by our website or give us a call and let us make your kitchen dreams come true with the help of our free kitchen design tool!