Thinking of upgrading your kitchen sink but don’t know where to start? With so many different types and styles of sinks to choose from it can be an overwhelming and daunting task to figure out which one best fits your needs and design style. Let’s take a look at a few options:
Types Of Kitchen Sinks
Type #1: Stainless Steel
Stainless Steel kitchen sinks are by far the most common and most popular. They are heat and stain resistant, available in a variety of styles, types, and sizes. These sinks resist chipping and cracking and are easy to clean. Stainless steel sinks also provide flexibility with regard to mounting type (under-mount or top mount), and can be relatively inexpensive depending upon size, type, mounting, and gauge.
When choosing a stainless steel sink something to keep in mind is they are available in a variety of finishes such as polished or mirrored, brushed, and satin. Consider choosing a finish with a brushed or satin finish to hide scratches and water stains.
Type #2: Concrete Sinks
Concrete kitchen sinks are very unique. If you are looking for something different then this sink is for you. Concrete sinks are a very attractive, smooth, and durable material. They are usually custom made, can have lots of style choices, unlimited color options, and can be cast in any shape. In addition there are lots of edge choice details and endless possibilities for inlays and inserts.
Of course with all of this customization a concrete sink can be quite costly. Concrete is a very heavy material and you will need to make sure you have all the proper supports under your sink as well as your floor.
Chips and cracks occasionally happen and you’ll need to get them taken care of quickly. Sealing your concrete sink will also help to make it stain resistant. Over time the appearance of a concrete sink will improve with age.
Type #3: Cast Iron
Cast Iron sinks come in a variety of colors. They are easy to keep clean and retain heat well. Their tough enamel finish helps to prevent rusting and can last for a very long time. Like concrete sinks; cast iron sinks are extremely heavy and will need the proper support under the sink and floor.
Price ranges for a cast iron sink varies from medium to high.
Type #4: Solid Surface
Solid Surface sinks can integrate into a kitchen counter for a smooth seamless appearance. These sinks are most often made from acrylic, but also polyester resins, marble dust, and other pigments.
This type of sink is easy to clean, stain resistant, mildew resistant, and germ resistant. Solid surface sinks are durable and non-porous. They’re available in a variety of styles, colors, and shapes. Like any other material solid surface sinks are not impervious to damage. They can be damaged by very high heat, deep scratches, and are vulnerable to strong chemicals like nail polish remover.
Type #5: Copper Sink
Copper sinks give a room a rustic charm and look. These sinks are very durable, naturally stain resistant as well as rust and germ resistant. High quality copper sinks should be made out of 99% pure copper and 1% zinc, which is added for strength and integrity.
This type of sink can be extremely heavy and will need the proper support under the sink and kitchen floor. Copper sinks can be finished smooth or hammered.
Certain acids in foods can cause the sink to become green due to a patina reaction. They aren’t as resistant to heat as stainless steel sinks…they can melt and do scratch easily. In addition they can be quite expensive.
Styles Of Kitchen Sinks
Style #1: Integral Sink (Seamless Sink)
An Integral Sink is made out of the same material as the countertop to form a continuous surface. It can be designed to meet your custom needs. It can be made out of Natural Stone, Concrete, or Solid Surface Materials.
One thing to consider with an integral sink is if you decide you’d like to replace the sink it also means you would need to replace the counter.
Style #2: Single Bowl Sinks
Single bowl sinks have one basin. They are available in a range of materials and sizes and can work with various counter top and kitchen styles. Single bowl sinks work well in any size kitchen and you can choose a drop-in, under-mount, or apron configuration.
Style #3: Double Bowl Sink
Double bowl sinks have two basins and are available in a variety of materials, sizes, and configurations. The right configuration for you will depend upon what you do and how you use your kitchen.
These sinks are great for allowing you to do more than one task, as well as having more than one person helping at the sink. A drawback with Double Bowl sinks is it can be difficult to accommodate large pots and pans. It also takes up more space than a traditional single bowl.
Style #4: Drop-in Sink
A drop-in sink has a self-rimming edge top and can be dropped into a counter top. This type of sink is ideal for a wide range of counter tops. The only con is it’s easy for debris to get caught between the lip of the sink and the counter.
Style #5: Under-Mount Sink
An Under-Mount Sink mounts from beneath the counter top and allows for a clean smooth counter. It makes for less work when cleaning as all debris can be wiped into the sink. Under-Mount sinks are not typically designed with space for faucets and attachments; you’ll need to have a professional install this type of sink.
Still confused about which sink is best for you? Visit us online at TheRTAStore.com or give us a call and let us help you choose the sink that’s right for you.
