Finding The Right Sink For Your Kitchen

Your kitchen sink is arguably one of the most hardworking fixtures in your kitchen. From washing your food to washing your dishes, you will often find yourself coming back to the sink again. That’s why it is so important to choose the right sink for your kitchen.

Installation

When it comes to kitchen sink installation, there are basically 3 ways it can happen.

Self-rimming: Also known as ‘drop-in sinks’, they are the easiest to install since they fit right into a cutout in the countertop. However, they create a barrier between the bowl and the countertop surface which makes it impossible to sweep food and liquid into the bowl.

Undermount: These tend to be made of heavier materials such as cast iron or stone and will require clips and other mechanical fastenings to install. This type also allows you to easily sweep debris into the bowl.

Flush mount: Also known as ‘tile edge’ sinks, they are installed so that its flush with the mounting flange of the sink will provide a flush surface with the countertop. You will typically see a grout line between the edges of the sink and tile as well.

Size And Configuration

A sink ‘configuration’ simply refers to the sink’s broad attributes like the quantity of bowls, the shape of the sink, the number of faucet holes, and so on. Both the size and the configuration of your sink are directly related to how usable and effective your kitchen sink will be for your needs.

For example, if you tend to use a lot of large pots and pans, it will be more useful to you to have at least a single large bowl to ensure easy cleaning. You also need to consider how much space your kitchen has to offer. If you have a small kitchen, a three bowl sink will probably be unrealistic or problematic with your layout.

Material

Kitchen sinks can come in a variety of materials with their own highs and lows. Knowing which one will hold up to your needs is important.

Stainless steel: These have a broad appeal thanks to their clean look and durability. While stainless steel does have a bit more ‘give’ than with a harder material like cast iron, it is much more forgiving when you drop dishes and glassware.

Cast iron: This sink is known for its durability, however it is possible for the enamel to wear or chip away over time. It is an easy clean style of sink, but will require a solid fixturing due to its heavy weight.

Copper or bronze: This distinctive look takes on an aged patina depending on the type of care given and will not rust. Certain alloys of copper even have antimicrobial properties. However, this option can be rather expensive.

Solid surface: These are made from a similar material as solid surface countertops, are durable enough for a scrubbing and are easy to install. However, it does not tolerate heat well and may even break from heavy items.

Composite: These are a combination of crushed stone, typically granite or quartz, and a resin binder. It is a reasonably durable option that is resistant to most scratching, but it can be much harder to clean.

If you are eager to update the look of your kitchen sink, don’t hesitate to contact Cardigan Kitchen for all of your kitchen remodeling needs!