Types Of Kitchen Sink
Are you buying a new house or remodeling the existing one? And now, is it your kitchen’s turn? There are many aspects that need to be considered to design or even refurbish your present kitchen to a more functional one, without compromising on its elegance! As kitchen sink is the core element of any kitchen, you will need to decide which sink will best suit the design, size, and essentials of your kitchen. You are surrounded by a broad gamut of sinks and attractive accessories that come along with them such as sophisticated faucets (with or without multiple spray options). To choose the right sink for your kitchen, you need to investigate thoroughly the various types of sinks available in the market, their pros and cons and try to match them with your requirements. Also, read through the ‘care and maintenance’ instructions mentioned in the manufacturer’s manual. You will definitely be able to zero down on one type that will exactly fit in the architecture of your kitchen. The various types of kitchen sinks are as follows.
Different Types Of Kitchen Sinks
Self-Rimming Kitchen Sinks
Self-rimming kitchen sinks, also known as ‘drop in sinks’ are the most popular of all the sinks and are also very undemanding to install. The sink rim is placed on the countertop and its weight is also supported by the countertop. The faucet is commonly mounted directly to the deck along the back of the sink. Self-rimming kitchen sinks are also trendy because of their versatile attribute. They get along well with probably every type of counter material. The only drawback with self-rimming kitchen sinks is that they are not friendly to clean as compared to other types of sinks.
Undermount Sink
Contrary to the self-rimming sinks, undermount sinks, as the name suggests, are installed beneath the countertop. They create a picture perfect transition between the counter and sink, and are very easy to clean and maintain. Undermount sinks are mostly admired for their functionality and visual appeal. Ideally, undermount sinks should be mounted to the solid surface installers. The undermount sinks can be made of any of the kitchen sink materials. The faucet with an undermount sink is attached to the countertop.
Apron-Front Kitchen Sinks
Apron-front kitchen sinks, also known as ‘farmhouse’ sinks, reflect a particular period style of kitchen, and are designed with a classy panel in the front. They can either be tiled or come in undermount models. Apron sinks are attached at lower part on the cabinet and have a tall front panel giving it an old fashion, but attractive appearance. The cabinet under an apron sink needs to be condensed or cut down to give space to the front panel to get assembled on the front frame.
Single Bowl Kitchen Sinks
A single bowl kitchen sink is self-explanatory! It is a splendid option for those who prefer a dishwasher over hand washing. Single bowl sinks have a deep bowl to help in rinsing large utensils like pots and pans! They fit very well if your kitchen is less spacious.
Double Kitchen Sinks And Triple Kitchen Sinks
Double bowl kitchen sinks and triple bowl kitchen sinks are a great choice for washing dishes by hand, for instance, you can wash in one bowl and rinse in the other. Multi-bowl sinks are available in the market with one bowl smaller than the others, which is very handy for scraping the left-over food directly into a garbage bin or simply keeping them out of the way while cleaning the dishes.
Gourmet Sinks
A ‘gourmet sink’ fulfills the special needs of a chef that comes with extended features. Gourmet sinks have useful attributes incorporated in the design such as a faucet that pulls out for spraying is an essential feature for a chef. Modern chef has the privilege to choose from a variety of gourmet sinks varying in style, size, and physical presentation.
Types Of Materials For Kitchen Sinks
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel kitchen sinks are the most popular in households as well as in restaurants because of their lightweight, durability, easy cleaning, and economy. The only demerit with stainless steel sinks is that they can scratch out easily. Most stainless steel sinks are crafted by drawing a sheet of stainless steel over a die. Welding is also required for deep stainless steel sinks. Stainless steel sinks are resistant to hot or cold objects. Choose a stainless steel sink that will synchronize well with the decor of your kitchen.
Enameled Cast Iron Sinks
Enameled cast iron sinks are also a great choice for kitchen. They come in different shapes and sizes. They are quite durable, resistant to hot and cold objects, do not stain and are also scratch resistant. The drawbacks of enameled sinks are that they are very heavy, and can be damaged by sharp impacts and sometimes the cast iron underlying the sink can get corroded.
Solid Surface Sinks
Solid surface sinks, made of man-made material, are costlier as compared to other sinks. They are easy to clean, scratch resistant and can be tailor-made to unify with your existing countertop. Solid surface sinks can be colored all the way through to varnish the scratches visible on the sink. They are also heat resistant and not excessively heavy.
Porcelain Sinks
Porcelain sinks are a craze for modern homemakers as they are known for their beauty and high robustness. One of the most scratch resistant sinks, porcelain sink is a great value for money.
As more and more variety of kitchen sinks are available today, instead of getting bewildered with the choices, just evaluate your requirements, the space available with you, the type of your counter top and the budget limitations. Then pick up the best option to balance out both the utility and the splendor of the sink. Just like any other aspect of your kitchen, a right kitchen sink will augment the beauty of your kitchen making your cooking and cleaning more pleasurable.
