Choosing the right kitchen sink is not just about aesthetics. Functionality and durability are equally important. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand the different types of sinks available so you can choose what will best meet your needs.
Selecting the right kitchen sink depends on your kitchen layout, usage habits, and personal preferences. Make sure you consider all the options. If possible, visit a plumbing showroom so you can see the differences in person. Once you decide on the style you like, then move on to material. Finally, sink layout should be considered. Single bowl, Double bowl, and Low Divide are the most common options. You can even decide how much of a split you want if you are doing a double bowl. When choosing a sink, don’t just pick one up off the shelf, put thought into finding the one that is right for you and your kitchen space.
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Top-Mount Sinks
Description: Also known as drop-in sinks, these are the most traditional type of sink. They are installed from above the countertop, with a visible rim that rests on the counter. Nobody really likes these. Don’t do it unless you have to.
Pros:
- Ease of Installation: Simple to install, making it a popular DIY project. Great if you aren’t changing your countertop.
- Cost-Effective: Generally very affordable compared to other types. But if you have to use a drop-in, splurge on a good quality stainless steel or composite.
- Versatility: Can be used with almost any countertop material, even stupid tile and the dreaded laminate.
Cons:
- Cleaning: The rim can collect dirt and grime, which clean freaks hate.
- Aesthetics: Some find the visible rim less appealing compared to seamless options, because it is.
Undermount Sinks
Description: These sinks are mounted underneath the countertop, creating a seamless look between the sink and the counter.
Pros:
- Easy Cleaning: No rim to catch debris and gross grime build-up, making it easy to wipe crumbs directly into the sink.
- Sleek Design: Provides a modern, clean look, and there are many styles and materials to choose from.
- Increased Counter Space: No rim taking up counter space. Even those 2 inches count.
Cons:
- Installation Complexity: Requires professional installation and a solid countertop material like granite or quartz. Sorry laminate lovers.
- Cost: Often more expensive than top-mount sinks.
Farmhouse Sinks
Description: Also known as apron-front sinks, these have a deep basin and a large front panel that extends over the edge of the countertop.
Pros:
- Aesthetic Appeal: Can add a rustic or country-style charm to the kitchen, but sleek and modern styles also exist.
- Functionality: Deep basins are ideal for washing large pots and pans, or even the family dog.
- Durability: Often made from heavy-duty materials like cast iron or fireclay, but they also come in composite materials.
Cons:
- Installation: Requires custom cabinetry and professional installation. No, you can’t replace your drop-in or undermount with a farm sink without major cabinet work.
- Cost: Typically more expensive due to materials and installation requirements. These babies aren’t cheap, but they are worth it.
Integrated Sinks
Description: These sinks are built into the countertop, made from the same material, creating a seamless and uniform appearance.
Pros:
- Seamless Look: Provides a sleek and modern design.
- Easy Maintenance: No joints or seams, making cleaning simple. Absolutely no place for grime to hide.
- Customizable: Can be designed to match your countertops if they are a solid surface material. Laminate lovers are out of luck.
Cons:
- Cost: Custom fabrication can be expensive, especially with stone materials.
- Repair: Damage to the sink often requires professional repair or replacement of the entire countertop section. But on the other hand, damaging them usually takes some effort.
Stainless Steel
Description: A staple in the kitchen sink market for umpteen years, the stainless steel sink is durable and appealing if done right.
Pros:
- Durability: It’s really, really hard to wear out a stainless steel sink.
- Cost-Effective: Affordable, but look for a thicker gauge steel and you won’t be sorry. Also super easy to DIY install if it’s an ugly top mount. Wink wink.
- Versatility: Can be drop-in or undermount. They even come in apron-front styles. Single bowl, double bowl, you want it…you can find it.
Cons:
- Cleaning and Scratching: Lower quality stainless can discolor, scratch, and stain.
- Sound: The lower gauge stainless is infamous for a “tinny” sound when water hits it. This can be avoided by choosing a better gauge of steel and making sure there is a spray coating of rubberized insulation on the underside.
Porcelain and Fireclay
Description: Porcelain sinks have been around since indoor plumbing hit the scene. They are typically porcelain through and through but also may be porcelain sprayed over cast iron.
Pros:
- Beauty: There’s really nothing that compares to a glistening white porcelain sink.
- Design: Provides a traditional look. Goes well with many design styles. Lots of styles to choose from.
- Long-Lasting: Walk into your grandma’s house. Is there a porcelain sink somewhere? Chances are it’s been there for 60 years.
Cons:
- Installation: These sinks are heavy as hell. This’ll take more than one person.
- Chipping: Porcelain can chip. Use heavy cast iron cookware at your own risk.
Stone Composite
Description: A combination of quartz or granite and resins. These sinks are gaining in popularity for good reason.
Pros:
- Aesthetic Appeal: These come in so many colors and many design styles. It’s easy to find one that blends well with the design of the space.
- Durability: A good quality composite sink won’t chip, stain, or scratch.
Cons:
- Cost: A bit more expensive, but cost has come down in recent years as more manufacturers have joined the market.
Copper
Description: Copper is a traditional material that naturally patinas, adding an old-world look.
Pros:
- Makes a Statement: There’s no ignoring a beautiful copper sink. Total showstopper. Everyone will mention it.
- Clean: Copper is naturally antimicrobial. A great option for the hygienically oversensitive.
- Customizable: Copper sinks are often made to order, making them unique and one of a kind. A total flex.
Cons:
- Cost: Custom fabrication can be expensive.
- Patina: This isn’t necessarily a disadvantage if you like the aged look. But if you want the orange copper look, just know it won’t be like that forever.
Stone or Concrete
Description: Manufactured from the same material as the stone countertops for a continuous look.
Pros:
- “Wow” Factor: Having a sink in quartz, quartzite, granite, or marble is super bougie and luxurious.
- Custom and Unique: Each sink is custom fabricated for the space from the same material as the countertop. It can be designed as many ways as you can imagine.
Cons:
- Cost: Pretty expensive.
- Durability: Susceptible to chips and cracks if not handled with proper care.
Now let’s talk materials…just like sinks come in many different styles, they are also made from a variety of different materials. Each of these materials has pros and cons.
