What to Look for in a Kitchen Sink
Size
When shopping for a kitchen sink, there are three dimensions to consider: the length, also referred to as side-to-side dimension; the width, also known as front-to-back measurement; and the depth. The measurements of your existing cabinets are equally important to ensure a proper fit. Standard kitchen sinks with a single bowl usually measure about 22 inches long. Farmhouse sinks, as well as those with double bowls, are typically longer—ranging from 32 to 48 inches long. Most kitchen sinks range in width from 24 to 32 inches with a depth of 8 to 10 inches. Deeper sink options are available, but keep in mind that they will occupy more space under a sink.
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Material
Kitchen sinks come in a wide variety of materials to enhance the aesthetic of your home. Here are some of the most popular options on the market:
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Stainless steel is by far the most popular option for a kitchen sink, offering a contemporary design that works well with a range of interiors. It is durable, low-maintenance, and resistant to rust and corrosion. The thickness of stainless steel is referred to as its gauge; the higher the gauge, the thinner the steel. Most kitchen sinks are made of 16-gauge, 18-gauge, or 20-gauge stainless steel. Lower-gauge sinks are thicker and more durable than their thinner counterparts.
Natural stone materials like granite, quartz, and granite composite are also quite popular. Granite and quartz are often combined to create a sophisticated, richly textured kitchen sink. Although these materials are very durable, they can potentially chip, crack, or scratch with heavy use. Granite composite combines natural stone with a small percentage of resin, creating a harder sink with better resistance to everyday wear and and tear. Granite, quartz, and granite composite are expensive materials in general, and their heavy weight construction may increase the cost of installation.
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Cast iron has declined a bit in popularity, but it’s still a solid option for a kitchen sink material. Enameled cast iron is incredibly durable and easy to maintain. It comes in various colors to suit any kitchen decor. Just keep in mind that lighter colored enamels are more susceptible to staining.
Aside from its good looks, copper has natural microbial properties that make it a good choice for a kitchen sink. For those that like an antique-inspired design, copper develops a distinct look as the patina ages. Copper is quite durable, but it requires some extra maintenance to keep it in tiptop shape. Our top choice in this category, the Sinkology Lange 32″ Farmhouse Apron Copper Sink, offers an eye-catching design that could be the focal point of a kitchen.
Installation Type
When it comes to installation technique, kitchen sinks usually fall into one of two categories: a top-mount sink, also known as drop-in sink, or an undermount sink. Due to their compatibility with most countertop materials, top-mount sinks are the most popular option. As the name implies, this type of sink is dropped into a designated hole on the countertop and held in place by its rim or edge. Thanks to easier installation, top-mount sinks usually cost less than undermount models.
An undermount sink is attached to the underside of a countertop, creating a sleek, seamless aesthetic. This type of sink works best with solid-surface countertops, such as granite or marble, because they need a heavier material for support. With a lip or edge at the top of the sink, an undermount is easier to clean. Plus, you can brush crumbs and scraps directly into the sink. Our top choice in this category, the Zuhne Modena Undermount Bar and RV Sink, provides ample workspace and is easy to wipe clean.
Basin Style
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A single-basin sink is the most common and least expensive option. The generously sized, open basin, is ideal for accommodating larger pieces of cookware like stockpots and platters.
A double basin sink allows you to designate each side for specific tasks such as soaking and regular washing. A double-bowl sink with a low divider has the unique ability to accommodate pots and pans with longer handles.
A workstation sink can be converted into a versatile workspace without using additional counter space. These sinks come with a variety of accessories that slide on an integrated track. Accessories may include colanders, cutting boards, drying racks, and more. Our top choice in this category, the Glacier Bay All-in-One Workstation Kitchen Sink, is ideal for food prep, cooking, and cleaning up.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Sage McHugh is a home and lifestyle writer who has been contributing to The Spruce since 2019. To select the best kitchen sinks for this roundup, McHugh considered dozens of products, carefully evaluating their size, material, installation type, basin type, and overall performance.
She also consulted hundreds of customer reviews, as well as write-ups from third-party websites. For expert insight on kitchen sinks, she interviewed Marine Sargsyan, staff economist at Houzz, as well as two members of The Spruce Home Improvement Review Board: Richard Epstein, licensed master plumber, and Johnathan Brewer, a licensed general contractor specializing in kitchen and bath remodels.
Source: https://gardencourte.com
Categories: Kitchens
