Types of Kitchen Sinks
Kitchen sinks have become one of the more popular ways to add a dash of style to your space. There are many beautiful and functional options on the market today. Let’s explore the types of kitchen sinks available for your home through their installation techniques and materials.
Types of Kitchen Sinks: Installation Techniques
Undermount Sinks
Undermount sinks create a seamless look from counter to sink because it is installed directly under the counter. This is a great choice for transitional or contemporary kitchen styles because of its clean look. They can be difficult to install, especially if the basin is large or made of a heavier material. They are easier to keep clean than a top mount sink and make it a breeze to swipe in debris if you have a garbage disposal.
Drop-In Sinks
Drop-In or top mount sinks drop into the counter, creating a lip around the sink. The extra support given by this installation method allows for easier installation of heavier materials than an undermount sink. However, the lip can trap dirt and grime. They are often the cheaper alternative for sink installation, although there are many stylish options available.
Farmhouse Sinks
The uber-popular Farmhouse sink is also known as an apron sink. The apron is the large exposed front of the sink that replaces the counter. They have a deep basin, with a large single or sometimes a double bowl. Farmhouse sinks come with many accessories, like over the sink strainers or drying racks. They are super functional and stylish but are also heavy and expensive.
Types of Kitchen Sinks: Materials
Stainless steel
Versatile and inexpensive, stainless steel sinks offer great stain and heat resistance, are light and easy to install. However, they can dent, scratch, and are prone to water spots so they can be harder to make look clean.
Cast iron
Cast iron by itself would be prone to rust, so cast iron sinks have a porcelain enamel finish giving it a gleaming white surface. They are heavy and durable, but the coating can wear away from abrasive cleaners or be prone to etching or chipping.
The average cast iron sink weighs 100 pounds, so it’s necessary to have extra support if you want to use it for an undermount installation.
Fireclay
Fireclay sinks are made by high-firing clay and then fusing it with a porcelain enamel coating. This process improves the strength of the sink. Fireclay is lighter than cast iron, making it easier to install. Fireclay sinks can be more customizable in shape, but they can also crack under certain conditions.
Granite or Quartz Composite
Composite sinks are made by combining crushed granite or quartz with a resin filler. They are tough and resistant to stains or scratching (granite more so than quartz). They offer a refreshing style change from those who want something different from stainless steel or the all-white porcelain look. They come in a range of matte colors, from black, gray, brown, beige, and white.
Copper
A copper sink is a great choice for those who want to stand out. Copper sinks develop a natural patina over time, so it’s important to embrace this rustic character with the rest of your kitchen design. These sinks are also more durable when they are thicker, it makes sure that the material cannot be damaged or dented by heavy pots and pans banging around. Copper sinks are often made by hand, giving them a unique quality but also a variability (so make sure your measurements are precise!).
To learn more about kitchen renovations in Rhode Island and Massachusetts, contact Red House today!
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