What Type of Sink Is Best For Your Kitchen?

Just like any home design element we have seen different types of kitchen sinks come in and out of trend.

Just like any home design element we have seen different types of kitchen sinks come in and out of trend.  The farmhouse sink (also known as the “apron sink”) has been all the rage in kitchen remodels and new kitchen builds.  Choosing a new kitchen sink may sound simple but there are a lot of different materials and designs from which to choose and sometimes a particular sink design or material may look really great in theory but may not be the right choice for your home.  That stunning white kitchen sink?  Depending on your lifestyle and level of use it may not look quite so stunning or white for very long without a lot of careful cleaning.  When choosing a kitchen sink it is important to consider both material and design style that best coordinates with the overall kitchen and home design.

Almost every sink design comes in a wide variety of materials so it is important to first determine what material you prefer and what will look best in your home.  Stainless steel has been a long-standing favorite because of its durability and sleek design.  Stainless steel is heat and stain resistant, water marks and dirt are less visible and small scratches are not particularly noticeable either.  Additionally, stainless steel sinks come in a wide variety of prices so there is a stainless steel sink for every budget.  Another popular material is composite granite.  Composite granite is a sturdy mixture of materials that is highly durable because they are scratch, chip and heat resistant and come in a variety of shades to coordinate with any home decor aesthetic.  Cast iron sinks are a classic, timeless choice for a homeowner.  They look incredibly unique and beautiful and with proper care and maintenance will continue to hold that beauty.  But, cast iron sinks are far more prone to scratches, chips and rusting.  Additionally, because of the weight of cast iron they are more difficult and expensive to install than other sink material options.  Another type of material that sinks are available in is fireclay.  Fireclay is a manufactured type of clay that is designed to be highly durable, resistant to scratching and chips and is completely nonporous so it is resistant to staining as well.  Similar to cast iron sinks, fireclay is an extremely heavy material so installation may cost more and cabinetry may actually need to be reinforced to support its weight.

In addition to material type you will need to determine the appropriate sink design for your kitchen.  There are a variety of sink sizes, shapes, and overall designs.  Self-rimming or drop-in sinks are popular because they are easy and relatively inexpensive to install. Undermount sinks are also quite popular, especially with solid-surface countertops like granite slabs because they give a seamless, clean look to the surface.  Farmhouse or apron style sinks are class and timeless and have recently enjoyed a return to the spotlight as homeowners are looking to add that “timeless charm” to their home.  Additionally, you can opt to have one large open basin in the sink or a divided sink to offer soaking capabilities while still being able to use your sink for other purposes at the same time.  Consult your handyman or contractor for advice when choosing the best kitchen sink for your home as they will be able to offer experienced advice and recommendations based on your specific kitchen needs.