Kitchen Sinks
Kitchen sinks are arguably the hardest working fixtures in the kitchen. Think about it for a moment. How many times per day do you use your current sink? Now compare that to the number of times you use your oven, or the microwave.
With the kitchen's evolution into the home's multi-functional hub of activity, sinks have had to keep up as well. The result is a legion of choices involving everything from materials to bowl configuration.
So how do you go abut choosing the right one?
The first part is knowing what kinds of choices and options are available. Sinks have come a long way over the years and they're no longer just a simple wash basin.
The second part is understanding what your needs and preferences are and whether you're simply replacing an existing sink or doing a bare-the-studs kitchen remodel.
Merging these two bodies of information will help you find matches that will get you a new sink you'll be satisfied with.
The Basic Differentiators Among Kitchen Sinks
Within the vast realm of sink choices there are 3 basic differentiators that you'll want to become familiar with. They include -
Understanding what you want from among these basic features will help narrow down your list of available choices and focus your search.
From there you can then home in on the range of options offered by the various manufacturers that fit those basic three criteria.
Type of Installation
There are basically 3 ways kitchen sinks can be installed:| - Self-rimming (drop-in) |
| - Undermount |
| - Flush mount |
Self-rimming or drop-in sinks as they're sometimes called are the easiest to install. They simply fit into a cutout in the countertop on top of a base cabinet, supported by the flanges of the sink that overlap the cutout.
The main disadvantage is the barrier between the countertop surface and the bowl that's formed by the lip. You can't sweep food and liquids into the sink or if you try, you end up catching debris at the edge where the sink and countertop meet.
Undermount sinks are attached under the countertop. They either hang from the underside of the countertop or are supported from underneath by the base cabinet structure.
Undermount sinks allow you to brush items from the countertop directly into the sink without any "catch points" that can capture food particles and moisture. They require clips and other mechanical fastening devices to attach them to the countertop. Heavier kitchen sinks like ones made from cast iron or stone require a well-designed mounting system in an undermount installation.
A solid surface sink combined with a solid surface countertop is another form of undermount sink although it may not appear as such. In this situation the sink is glued to the underside of the solid surface countertop. The fabricator then smooths the joint between the two surfaces making the seam between them invisible, similar to what's shown in the picture on the right.
An undermount sink's "reveal" refers to the degree that the countertop extends over the edge of the sink. A positive reveal means the lip of the sink juts out slightly from the edge of the countertop. A negative reveal means the countertop surface overlaps the edge of the sink.
Flush mount sinks are also called "tile edge" sinks. They're similar to a drop-in sink except they're used with a tiled countertop. The tile is installed so that it's flush with the mounting flange of the sink providing a flush surface with the countertop. There's usually a grout line between the edge of the sink and the tile.
Configuration And Size
Sink "configuration" simply refers to it's broad attributes like quantity of bowls, square or round corners, number of faucet holes, etc. Size is self-explanatory.Both the size and the configuration are important because they directly relate to usability and effectiveness. Let's face it - you want a good looking sink but you don't want just a pretty face - you want it to work well too.
For example, a small galley kitchen might do best with a smaller, single-bowl configuration whereas a large kitchen may be able to accommodate a wide three-bowl, multi-depth chef sink. Another scenario involves the use of a corner sink configuration that makes the most of a kitchen's available area.
Choosing a size and configuration that suits your kitchen and lifestyle makes for the best match.
Sink Materials - Pros/Cons & Other Considerations
Kitchen sinks come in a variety of materials, each with their own highs and lows. The information below highlights what's available.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel sinks have broad appeal for their neutral, clean looks and durability. Available in brushed and polished finishes, better sinks are made from thicker steel, measured by gauge thickness. Higher gauge numbers equate to thinner steels (in other words, 20 gauge steel is thinner than 16 gauge steel). Stainless sinks have a bit more "give" than a harder material like cast iron and are more forgiving on dropped dishes and glassware.
| Pros | Cons |
|
Good durability and longevity on quality sinks Provides a consistent look with stainless appliances Affordable (though sinks with more features add cost) |
Thinner gauges (>20) may sound tinny and flex too much Will show dried water and mineral spots unless wiped after use Can scratch although they're less visible on brushed finishes |
Cast Iron
Cast iron has a long track record of being a durable sink material. They are finished with porcelain enamel, a coating fired at high temperatures that provides hardness and durability. It's not indestructible however as it's possible for the enamel to wear away or chip over time. Minor chips and scratches can be fixed with products like Por-a-Fix and Fill-a-Fix. They're heavy but durable, making undermount applications a bit trickier than drop-ins. If you like the look of glossy sink, cast iron is a good choice. (An alternative for the shiny look is an acrylic sink.)
You can find more information about choosing a cast iron sink here.
| Pros | Cons |
|
Offers a durable sink that's available in various colors Easy to clean and maintain Heavy mass retains heat longer (though it takes longer to warm up) Porcelain finish has a nice sheen Drop-in styles are easy to install |
Undermount installation requires solid fixturing due to weight Porcelain can wear/chip over time causing underlying iron to rust if it's exposed Not compatible with abrasive cleaners; can dull the gloss finish Heavy pans can leave marks on lighter colors (usually cleanable however) |
Fireclay
Fireclay sinks are a form of ceramic, similar to vitreous china yet stronger and more durable. Fireclay is fired at a higher temperature than vitreous china which helps provide the added durability. These products can have either a glossy or matte finish depending on the brand you buy. Typical colors are in the white and off-white family although there are some blue, black and grey products too. Fireclay differs from cast iron in that cast iron forms the primary structure of the sink, which is coated in a porcelain enamel. Fireclay in contrast is a clay based structure with a topical glaze, that's fused with the fireclay base, analogous to ceramic tile.
| Pros | Cons |
|
Durable, hard, non-porous finish that's easy to maintain Ceramic material isn't susceptible to corrosion when the surface finish is chipped, like what can occur with cast iron Typical styles are massive and command a presence making them a definite style statement in the kitchen |
Can be expensive Despite durable surface finish chips can occur from hard knocks though there are chip repair kits available Depending on manufacturer sizing can vary; having a sink on-hand before templating for countertop cutouts and installation may be necessary Requires careful installation of drain and garbage disposal to avoid cracking that can occur due to over-tightening |
Acrylic
Acrylic kitchen sinks offer the benefits of economy with an easily-maintained surface that's very resistant to stains. Acrylic is a plastic that's molded to form the shape of the sink. It's typically reinforced with fiberglass.
| Pros | Cons |
|
Smooth, non-porous surface that's easy to clean and stain resistant Inexpensive when compared to other sink materials Surface is renewable; scratches can be sanded and polished out Lighter than fireclay & cast iron |
Not tolerant to high heat Susceptible to damage from petroleum-based products |
Solid Surface
Solid surface sinks are made from the same material as solid surface countertops. When coupled with a solid surface counter, these sinks offer a great seamless look, the ultimate in sink/counter design with no ridges or edges to catch gunk and grime.
| Pros | Cons |
|
Provides a seamless joint with solid surface countertops Self-rimming solid sinks also available for easy installation Durable surface that stands up to scrubbing Color goes through the material - scratches are less noticeable Deep scratches/cuts are repairable, similar to solid surface c'tops More forgiving to dropped objects than cast iron and stone sink |
Not tolerant to high heat and very hot pots/pans Can crack or break under impact from heavy objects Seamless installation with c'tops requires professional fabrication Cracks/fractures require professional repair (usually replacement) |
Copper & Bronze
A copper or bronze sink offers a distinctive look that will take on an aged patina depending on the type of care it's given. You'll want to be sure the copper contains no lead or mercury, elements that are sometimes alloyed (combined with) copper.
Click here to learn more about choosing a copper sink.
| Pros | Cons |
|
Non-rusting material with a unique visual distinction Certain alloys of copper have antimicrobial properties (valid products must be registered with the U.S. EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) |
Expensive to very expensive depending on size and design Will need polishing to retain bright appearance |
Stone
Stone sinks are made from a variety of stone types. A granite kitchen sink or sinks made from soapstone are among the most common, but there are also sinks made from travertine, marble and onyx. These sinks are heavy and they require substantial support. Stone sinks can be made by joining stone slabs together to form the basin or can be hewn out of a solid piece. Sinks that are made from slabs should have an adequately sloped bottom to minimize any residual standing water.
| Pros | Cons |
|
Robust and durable surface Good sound-deadening qualities due to its mass Definitely a unique and interesting style option |
Style can look rustic; may not be compatible with all kitchen designs They're heavy and may require custom-built cabinetry for support Some stones are porous and require regular sealing |
Enameled Steel
Enameled steel kitchen sinks are an alternative to cast iron, offering lighter weight and usually a lower cost for a similar look. These sinks come in a variety of colors and offer the same easily-cleaned surface as their heavier cast iron counterparts. Because they're made from lighter-weight material they may be noisier than sinks made from cast iron.
| Pros | Cons |
|
Lighter weight and lower cost than enameled cast iron Relatively easy to clean and maintain Similar look to a cast iron sink finish Inexpensive |
Chips in the enamel expose the steel substrate to rusting, though these chips can be repaired May be noisier than a cast iron sink due to thinner materials used in its construction Some products can look cheap, not matching the substantial look of a quality cast iron sink |
Concrete
Concrete sinks are stylish, often custom made and heavy. Not everyone has a concrete sink so they offer a distinctive style choice. Their custom nature allows them to incorporate any design features you'd like drain boards, inlays or a unique bowl shape or size. Pre-cast concrete sinks are also available.
| Pros | Cons |
|
Nature of the material affords unlimited customization Unique style option Can be incorporated with a concrete countertop for seamless design |
Requires periodic sealing to avoid stains and repel moisture Heavy; requires sufficient base cabinet support Can be costly typically when custom made May exhibit cracks and fissures over time |
Composite
Composite kitchen sinks are a combination of crushed stone, usually granite or quartz, and a resin binder. The result is a material that's somewhat similar to solid surface but more resistant to heat. Some composite sinks have a smooth surface while others have a slightly rougher texture. Blanco's Silgranit® and Moen's MoenStone are examples of composite kitchen sinks. You may see these types of sinks referred to as stone sinks but don't confuse them with solid stone sinks, made from stone slabs or hewn out of a chunk of stone.
| Pros | Cons |
|
Reasonable durability and resistance to scratching and chipping Stands up to heat better than solid surface Color goes through the material |
Scuffs and scrapes can be harder to remove particularly in darker colors Rougher-surfaced products like these can be harder to clean (relative to smooth-surfaced materials) Some users have reported dulling of the finish |
Choosing A Sink - Some Additional Points To Consider
Beyond materials, installation type and configuration here are some additional points to ponder (let's call them the finer details) when choosing a kitchen sink.
- Size of sink relates to size of kitchen
While the choice is obviously yours, the size of your kitchen usually dictates the size of sink you should install. Small galley kitchens may be overwhelmed by a large sink (if there's even room for one). NKBA (National Kitchen & Bath Association) general guidelines are for single bowl sinks with small kitchens and double or triple bowls for larger kitchens.There won't be any kitchen police running after you if you buy a sink that's too large for your kitchen but you'll be sacrificing countertop space and it may just look out of scale.
- Larger sinks may require custom cabinetry
Make sure the sink that you want will fit in the base cabinet that will support it. Most stock and semi-custom base cabinetry is made in varying widths up to 36 inches and sometimes to 48 inches.An extra-wide sink like Kohler's PRO TaskCenter triple bowl sink at 60" wide will require special base cabinets to accommodate it's oversize width.
- Understand Your Faucet and Sink Accessory Setup Beforehand
You'll need to know the type of faucet setup you're going to use (or already have in the event you're replacing your old sink). You'll also need to determine whether you plan to use additional features like water treatment accessories and/or a soap dispenser for the purpose of specifying the right number of faucet holes in the sink. - How it's used helps determine bowl configuration
Think about how you'll use the sink on a daily basis to determine what configuration will work best for you. If you hand wash a lot of your dishes you may want a double bowl, one for washing and the other for rinsing/draining.However if you primarily use the dishwasher and only wash large pots and cookie sheets you may want a large single bowl or one of the low-divide double-bowl products that better accommodate larger pans.
- Deeper Bowls Have Their Pluses and Minuses
Deep bowls allow you to more easily fill and clean deep pots and other large items. But depending on your height, they can cause fatigue if your hands don't naturally reach the bottom. Having to bend slightly to reach down to the bottom of the bowl can be an annoyance, depending on how much time you spend at the sink. It's a minor issue but one to think about if you do a lot of dish washing. - Choose a material that will stand up to your environment
Some sink materials are tougher than others (see the pros/cons chart). Will it get hard daily use in a family environment or light use from a retired couple? Do you use heavy cookware that could more easily chip an enameled sink? If your sink will be used hard, stainless steel is probably your best bet although some of the stone composite sinks might be a good choice too.
- Some sinks hide water spots better than others
If you don't like dingy sinks and want that fresh new look most of the time consider the sink's material and finish or, the amount of maintenance you're willing to put up with. White enameled or acrylic sinks will hide dried water better than stainless steel or darker colored sinks.If you want the gleaming stainless steel look all the time you'll need to wipe it out after use. That might sound impractical but there are actually manufacturers that recommend these instructions in their maintenance recommendations.
- Flat-bottomed sinks and standing residual water
Some sinks have very little slope toward the drain and some, like stone sinks made from individual slabs, may have virtually none. This results in some residual water that consistently sits at the bottom of the sink. If this is something that you're going to be unhappy with make sure the sink bottom has enough slope.Keep in mind that it doesn't take much slope for the bottom to shed the water. The stainless steel sink in the picture below has a pretty flat bottom but those creases actually form a very slight "cone" to the drain. But, the flatter it is, the more residual water you'll probably have.
- Use a plastic wash basin to protect the sink
It may sound simplistic but one way to minimize damage to any sink from clanking pots and utensils is to use a plastic wash basin that fits in the bowl. You can store it underneath the sink when you're not using it. That might make you feel better about getting a more 'delicate' sink despite it having to live in a demanding environment. - Style of sink and ease of cleaning
Square-corner and zero-radius sinks look modern and high-tech but they're harder to clean in the corners than sinks with a more generous corner radius. It's easier to swipe-clean rounded corners than it is to get into tight corners. Unless you're diligent or really good at getting into those tight corners, they may show build-up over time from water and soap deposits.
Features and Innovations To Be Aware Of
Choosing a sink that's going to suit your needs involves understanding the kinds of features and innovations that are available in the marketplace.
They following isn't a completely exhaustive list but it will give you an idea of the options available for your consideration. There may be something here that you didn't know about that just might 'fit the bill' for your particular situation.
- Corner/Rear Drains for More Cabinet Space
Many kitchen sinks today place the drain location at the rear of the sink or in a corner. The main benefit lies with the increased amount of cabinet space that results underneath the sink because the plumbing is pushed further back. One drawback however is that there may not be enough room for a garbage disposal, depending on where the sink is located and how close it is to the back wall of the cabinet. - Multiple Bowls and Bowl Depths
You can buy kitchen sinks with one, two or three bowls. The right choice depends on how you'll use your sink the most.
Some double bowl sinks take up the same amount of counter space as a large single bowl sink. However when you start getting up to the triple bowl sinks, the amount of kitchen real estate that's taken up grows accordingly. The size of your kitchen and cabinetry will (should) dictate your choice here as triple-bowl sinks can be quite large.
Some homeowners like large, wide, single bowl sinks and use adjacent countertop space for a dish rack/drainer. Others may prefer a double bowl sink that allows washing dishes in one bowl and draining them in the other.
Multi-bowl sinks are also available with varied bowl depths. A triple bowl sink may have 2 large deep basins with a smaller, more shallow food prep bowl off to the side or in the middle. Suffice to say, there are plenty of choices when it comes to bowl configuration.
- Sinks with Versatility
New innovations in kitchen sinks involve characteristics that make them more versatile.New features include low-profile bowl dividers that "convert" double-bowl sinks into a single bowl. (In actuality, the low divider affords more room to handle larger pots and pans that you otherwise wouldn't be able to fit in just one of the bowls). Kohler's Smart Divide sink® is one example that uses this feature. You can see it in action by playing the video below and read a review of the Kohler Smart Divide sink here.
Integral cutting and drain boards are becoming a common feature that allow food preparation right at the sink. The boards slide from side to side and are removable for convenience and washing. Rather than prepping food at an adjacent counter, you can wash, rinse and chop right there at the sink.
Professional grade products like Kohler's PRO TaskCenter™ offer the features of commercial grade sinks for multitasking home chefs. Similar features are found in Elkay sinks, most notably, their Avado sink family. Wide, triple-bowl sinks with integral cutting boards and other accessories allow for multi-functional work. However be advised that these sinks can be expensive.
- Unique Material Innovations
Innovations in the materials used to make kitchen sinks include the combination of metal and polymers as is the case with the Z-Series sinks from Bates & Bates. The combination of the metal (such as copper brass, bronze and stainless steel) and polymer provides the distinctive look of a metal sink but with a surface that's easier to maintain.
Pre-cast concrete sinks are available as stand-alone units or as part of a countertop/sink combination. Sonoma Cast Stone makes concrete farmhouse (apron front) sinks along with sink/countertop combinations. They also make their ChefCenter sink with a perforated stainless steel bottom that's incorporated right into the concrete to protect the sink from abrasions.
- Blending Decorative and Functional
Stainless steel sinks come in several finishes, from a brushed satin to a mirror polish. Blending of the two can achieve the dual purpose of pleasing aesthetics and practical functionality. On some models by Kindred Industries the rim is polished for a nice visual appeal whereas the basin is a satin finish that hides the scratches and wear better.
The message here is that kitchen sinks aren't the simple cast iron basins of yesteryear. They've kept pace with technology and offer a wide range of options and features that are worth noting. Taking time to become familiar with these features will give you a better chance at finding a sink you'll not only be satisfied with but will make your kitchen a more efficient work space.
Publisher's Recommendations --
My Top 3 Sink Choices
Choosing a product like a kitchen sink is akin to choosing new furniture or which outfit to wear to the party. There's quality to consider, but a lot of preference is based on what look strikes our fancy. What works for some just won't work for others.
Subjectivity aside for a moment, here are my top 3 sink recommendations. This is based on my own experience and research on these products.
Stainless Steel
If you want a sink to last for a long time and be able to withstand just about anything, you really can't go wrong with stainless steel. However, if you don't like water spots or won't put up with any scratches that will occur over time then this sink isn't for you. The bottom line is that this kind of sink will probably outlast your kitchen and some very good models can be had for a very reasonable price.Click here for more information and recommendations on buying a stainless steel sink.
Cast Iron
Cast iron sinks are another choice that will last for a very long time, provided you can accept some wear and tear along the way. Cast iron is heavy and solid and can withstand the vibrations from a garbage disposal as well as thermal shocks from hot and cold water. Cast iron finishes provide a glossy, colored surface that can complement a wide range of kitchen styles.Yes, they scratch and chip but that can be minimized by how you protect it with sink grids and mats. The glossy surface, particularly on lighter colors tends to mask water marks better than stainless. More information on cast iron sinks can be found here.
Both stainless steel and cast iron sinks have their raving fans and their ardent haters. However there's no denying their popularity and longevity for the money. It simply comes down to preference for looks and performance.
My own kitchen sink is cast iron and it does have its fair share of scratches at the bottom of the bowl. However it cleans up well and I'd make the same choice again.
Blanco Silgranit
The third sink is one that I personally don't prefer but I'd be remiss for leaving it out of my recommendations purely because of it's fan base. Blanco's composite Silgranit sinks have found favor with many homeowners for their looks, generous sizes and low maintenance (according to some). Darker colors may spot or show hard water deposits over time but some users report no problems keeping them clean with dishwashing soap or some baking soda.Silgranit definitely has a matte finish so if a glossy/shiny sink finish is something you want, this might not be the sink for you. I've also seen some darker sinks with scuffs on them that I couldn't "rub away" but it's hard for me to leave this type of sink out of the mix given the enthusiastic supporters it has.
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Publisher's Comments
Two things come to mind here: my mother's old Guardian Service cookware and my children's habit of 'tossing' their utensils into our sink. Washing cookware like the bullet-proof Guardian Service (which feels like armor plate) easily made scratches and scrapes on our enameled sink if one wasn't careful.
For a long time my young sons were too short to place their utensils at the bottom of the sink. Instead they usually just reached over the counter and dropped them in. The resulting clank could be heard a room away as our sink's finish took another hit.
The point is this: sinks are subject to real life situations so thinking through how you actually live in your kitchen will help you choose the right sink.