Sinks are probably one of the most frequently used fixtures at home, and that is why choosing the right sink for the kitchen is crucial. It’s the key to creating your ideal workstation. With it, you can prep, wash and cook with ease for years to come. But how do you know which kitchen sink is best for you? Here’s a list of what you need to do.
Measure Your Kitchen Cabinet
Before buying a new sink for the kitchen, make sure to measure its foundation. The size of your sink also depends on whether your benchtop has a backsplash or not. A bigger space doesn’t mean a large kitchen sink, though. Your cooking needs and budget also matter. If you don’t work in the kitchen as often or prefer low-cost options, a standard-size sink will work best.
Determine the Sink Depth
Kitchen sinks are typically 18cm to 25cm deep. A shallow sink is perfect for avoiding back strains, but a deeper sink should have ample room for soaking and washing large cookpots. Decide according to your family’s needs. More importantly, choose a sink that your kitchen cabinets can support. A water-filled porcelain sink, for instance, will put more stress on your cabinetry than a stainless-steel counterpart
Choose the Best Sink Material
Your choice mainly depends on how often you intend to use and clean your sink. Some are more durable but pricier, while others are easy to clean. Here are a few common kitchen sink materials to consider.
Stainless steel
Pros: They are durable, low-maintenance, easy to clean, affordable and heat-resistant. While silver is the most common finish, there are other colours available to match your kitchen style.
Cons: Scratches and hard water spots will be your main issues. Proper cleaning techniques should help avoid them. Another solution is to choose a stainless-steel sink with a higher grade plus brushed or satin finish.
Porcelain
Pros: They are excellent for achieving the vintage kitchen look. They also come in a myriad of colour options.
Cons: Scuffs and stains are the usual problems with porcelain sinks. These can be removed with the right cleaning method, though. But remember that porcelain can chip or break. It may not be the ideal sink for the kitchen when considering everyday use and durability.
Granite composite
Pros: They are highly durable and stable under extreme temperature fluctuations. The non-porous surface is not only beautiful but also resistant to scratches and water spots. They’re a great match with granite or wooden benchtops.
Cons: Granite composite sinks can be expensive. Light-coloured ones can also stain and require special care.
Copper
Pros: Like stainless steel, copper sinks suit both traditional and modern kitchens. They are elegant, stain-resistant and durable. They also have natural antimicrobial properties. Copper sinks are the way to go if you want to boost your home value.
Cons: Copper sinks can develop a natural patina over time that some people do not find appealing. They can be expensive, too, and typically require professional installation, which adds to their cost.
Natural stone
Pros: Soapstone, marble, travertine and onyx look stunning as kitchen sinks. Natural stone is also easy to match with your benchtop material.
Cons: Natural stone is very pricey, so it’s not a popular choice among homeowners. They are also high-maintenance and prone to scratching and chipping.
Select Your Preferred Installation
The next thing you need to think about is how you want to mount your sink to the benchtop. Similar to materials, there are several ways how to install a sink.
- Overmount. Also called drop-in or inset, overmount sinks have the edges or lip resting on the benchtop surface. They are more affordable and suit traditional kitchens. Choose this type if you want to install the sink yourself or do a quick upgrade later on.
- Undermount. Undermounted sinks sit under the bench through strong adhesives. They can maximise countertop space and provide extra depth. Choose this method if you plan to have a modern kitchen or weight-bearing benchtops like granite or marble.
- Farmhouse. Apron front or farmhouse sinks sit under the benchtop with the front exposed. With no cabinet or worktop between you and the sink, these sinks are more accessible and comfortable. Having a farmhouse sink for the kitchen can effortlessly bring a rustic or vintage feel to your space.
- Built-in drainboard. If you do a lot of hand washing, then a sink with a drainboard adds convenience. You can also use the extension for draining washed fruits or vegetables. However, it may not be a great option if you prefer a separate dish rack or have limited counter space.
Decide Between a Single and Double-Bowl Sink
I like a double-bowl sink, so I can use one side for soaking and the other for rinsing. You can choose between equal and offset double bowls, too, depending on your preference. But if you often use large pots for cooking, a single bowl is more spacious and practical. When considering your kitchen sink configuration, decision-making is easier when you think about your cooking and cleaning habits.
Shop for Matching Accessories
While many accessories improve a sink’s functionality, the tap or faucet remains the most essential. Most sink types come with pre-drilled holes to match specific faucet models. Still, you have several other factors to consider when choosing.
For instance, if you want a double-bowl sink, a swivel faucet is best. You can also opt for a sprayer or gooseneck faucet if you have a deep-bowl sink. There are also several finishes available to match your other kitchen hardware. But if you need one that’s easy to maintain, then go for chrome faucets. Also, make sure to visit plumbing supply stores and shop around.
Finally, it’s always best to have a professional install your sink for the kitchen. After all, a great-looking sink should also be functional, stable and leakproof for a long time.
