An apron front double bowl copper kitchen sink in combination with white backsplashes, countertops and cabinets. Photo courtesy of Copperstore.co.uk

Do copper kitchen sinks make a good choice?

Copper kitchen sinks come in a variety of styles, textures, shapes and sizes. Some are factory finished while many are handmade too. Handmade finish is almost like adding a grand piece of handicraft to your kitchen! Besides, it won’t rust or corrode. So you can be assured that water or dampness will not spoil it. It is antimicrobial and doesn’t let fungus or mold develop easily.

However, copper kitchen sinks have a tendency to develop ‘patina’ – a greenish hue due to oxidization. This can be cumbersome to clean (rubbing the surface with a half cut lemon and a pinch of salt) considering high usage of a sink. Scratches develop easily as compared to stainless steel. Hot pots or pans can cause damage to the surface. Besides, it is a little expensive and high on maintenance.

Undermount copper kitchen sinks

Undermount copper kitchen sinks are generally better to install as they not only snuggly fit beneath the upper platform base, but also give a great finish to the entire look of the kitchen. Any water spills on the counter can be easily swept into the sink while keeping the entire counter clean and dry. Undermount copper kitchen sinks are generally lighter in weight, but would certainly require a careful installation to avoid a fall or leakage. The clamping or epoxy should be firm and tight to avoid the caulking from pulling off. It is best to consult with your hardware shop if you go DIY. Otherwise, a plumber can do it best.

Hammered copper kitchen sinks

Hammered copper kitchen sinks are a beauty – they add a rustic charm to your kitchen, just as in old era homes. It is a complete artwork (in terms of the rigorous process followed to make a single piece). Hammered copper kitchen sinks are made from traditional bonfire process which ensures the matte finish and golden brownish color. Hammered copper kitchen sinks are available in circular, rectangular and oval shapes along with self-rimming or under mounting options.

Copper farmhouse kitchen sinks

Copper farmhouse kitchen sinks are large, huge and spacious. Generally rectangular in shape, they are available in single or double bowl capacities. Beautifully crafted copper farmhouse kitchen sinks provide a rare combination of capacity, size, ease and style – all in one. Copper being anti-microbial ensures a clean surface despite the everyday wear and tear. Farmhouse kitchen sinks have an advantage of appearance, which allows them to be undermount with its front side exposed. This adds style and makes your copper farmhouse kitchen sink a showpiece rather than just another sink.

Copper apron sinks

Copper apron sinks are just another name for farmhouse kitchen sinks. With their country side appearance and large capacities, they are a deal to steal. Copper apron sinks are available with intricate and delicate designs on the front (the front side that is exposed) to enhance the look of your kitchen. They are available in thick rims to keep water from spilling out. So you can easily combine strong functionality and royal style with one of these copper apron sinks.

Though price of copper kitchen sinks is certainly higher than that of other sinks like stainless steel or porcelain sinks, you can be assured of a sturdy performance and elegant compliments for a long time to come. Both small and large kitchens can be adorned with suitable sized copper kitchen sinks, which will not only provide the functionality but also enhance the overall look of your favorite corner in your home.

Click here for the best deals on copper kitchen sinks.

An apron front single bowl white cast iron kitchen sink in combination with granite counters and wood cabinets. Photo courtesy of Made-in-China.com

The depth of apron kitchen sinks is generally more than that of other sinks available in market. In olden days, the countryside families were large and the long depth helped in accommodating large pans, pots or just numerous dishes. Today, though the usual family size in cities is just about 3-5 members, the elegance and rustic feel of apron kitchen sinks is here to stay. So whether you have a small or a large family, if you like countryside or farmhouse look for your kitchen then apron kitchen sinks are the best option.

Apron kitchen sinks are called so because the front side of such sinks is slightly raised above the counter and is slightly fitted towards the outside from the cabinet below. In olden days, it prevented dripping of water into the wooden cabinet below. So it acts like an apron i.e. prevents water spillage onto the counter and the cabinet beneath. Today apron kitchen sinks are available in single and double bowl capacities. Not just that, they are available in various materials like stainless steel, copper, stone, porcelain, fireclay etc. and an array of colors and designs.

Stainless steel apron front kitchen sinks

Stainless steel apron front kitchen sinks are light in weight, affordable, durable and tough. A stainless steel sink would go with any décor. So if you are confused about the material and cost of apron sinks, just go for a stainless steel apron front kitchen sink – it is affordable, easy to maintain, elegant and long lasting too. They are available in single and double bowl capacities.

Apron front farmhouse kitchen sinks

Apron front farmhouse kitchen sinks are great for large kitchens with enough space to lend for such kind of sinks. You can be carefree about the toppling load of pots, pans or dishes with such deep sinks. Even the faucet arrangement can be placed a little higher as water will fall into a greater depth than regular sinks and will not splash out; and at the same time allow more space (between the faucet and sink) for you to comfortably wash dishes.

White apron front kitchen sinks

White apron front kitchen sinks give a very pure and clean look to your kitchen (although they require additional maintenance). White apron front kitchen sinks are more susceptible to stains from foods. Hence it is best to keep them clean at all times. They are available in porcelain and fireclay. Those made from fireclay would be resistant to scratches, are tough for heavy duty cleaning, are resistant to abrasions from chemicals and are very easy to maintain.

Whether you opt for a stainless steel or a white apron front kitchen sink, be sure you have a large space to accommodate apron sinks. Also, it may be a little difficult for you to stand for a long time (while washing utensils), considering the depth that you have to access every now and then (especially if the sink is placed too low for your height). So place it in accordance with your height and flexibility of accessing the deep sink. Installation of such sinks should be done carefully, as they may be heavier as compared to other sinks. And of course, affordability and durability are factors you can’t ignore while choosing an apron kitchen sink.

There is certainly a very classic feel about an apron kitchen sink but choose it according to your needs, ease of maintenance and space. Style and décor can be managed with some other accessories, but functionality should always come first.

Click here for the best deals on apron kitchen sinks. Among the well-known manufacturers of apron sinks are Kohler, Franke, Lenova, Belle Foret and Kraus.

Why choose a ceramic kitchen sink?

White ceramic kitchen sink in combination with glass tile backsplash, stone counters and laminate cabinets. Photo courtesy of Zeokitchen.com

With so many choices available, one can easily get confused. Ceramic kitchen sinks are an easy option if you really don’t want too much fuss over price, cleaning and maintenance. Ceramic kitchen sinks are also known as vitreous china sinks. These are made from a material that goes through intense heat during its manufacturing process. The color and design is also baked during this manufacturing process.

Ceramic kitchen sinks are quite durable and tough. They have a hard, non-porous finish which makes them easy to maintain and clean. Although they do not require intense cleaning, harsh cleansing liquids should be avoided to keep the shining look intact. Very heavy and hard materials should not be dumped carelessly into the sink to avoid a knock to the surface.

There are quite a few colors to choose from; hence you could easily match it with your kitchen color. You don’t have to bother about rusting etc as the material is homogenous.

Factors to consider while making your choice

While selecting a sink for your kitchen, ensure the material is durable and long lasting. You should select ceramic kitchen sink over other materials only if you are sure about its compatibility with the kitchen styling. If you have rustic styled kitchen, you surely would not like a ceramic sink. A natural stone sink would suit better.

A ceramic kitchen sink is better suited to a contemporary style of kitchen. Similarly, choose the color in accordance with the rest of your kitchen’s color scheme. Do not pick up too stark and bright colors for the sink as they would attract unwanted attention. For example, a deep red ceramic kitchen sink amidst your lemon yellow or pearl white colored kitchen walls would attract attention like a red apple on a white china dish! So avoid such choices.

As is the case with all the other kinds of kitchen sinks, it is important to select the right fit for the countertop hole. Otherwise you may have to go through unnecessary exchanging process or even an undesirable cabinetry work. You could take guidance from a local kitchen hardware store or search on the Internet for various models, colors and sizes available.

Getting your ceramic kitchen sink

Single and double bowl capacities are available in the market and you must choose one that suits your requirement and budget. Small kitchens cannot as easily afford the luxury of double bowl sinks as the large kitchens can. Hence consider your space requirements too while making a choice of your ceramic kitchen sink.

Undermount ceramic kitchen sinks are relatively lighter as compared to a natural stone or a granite sink. However, an undermount ceramic kitchen sink is still heavier as compared to a stainless steel sink. Hence the installation needs to be firm and strongly supported from underneath. If you are not comfortable or confident of installing your undermount ceramic kitchen sink yourself, you can always consider having the contractor install it for you.

White ceramic kitchen sinks are the most common. They can very well hide water marks but are prone to showing up a colored stain from a food item. Also, a white ceramic kitchen sink requires regular cleaning. Compared to this, a black ceramic kitchen sink is much easier to clean and maintain. It can sometimes show up dried water marks but can easily hide colored stains.

With all that elaborate cooking of delectable dishes comes along a lot of cleaning work, which is why you need a sink that should not only accommodate the numerous dirty dishes (without them toppling over each other and eventually falling onto the floor!), but also be easy on maintenance. Cast iron kitchen sinks are one choice of sinks that help you relax on this front and carry on your cleaning work effortlessly.

An apron front single bowl white cast iron kitchen sink in combination with granite counters and wood cabinets. Photo courtesy of Made-in-China.com

Why should you go for cast iron kitchen sinks?

Cast iron kitchen sinks are extremely durable, fairly easy to maintain, but heavy in weight. They are made from an iron alloy with roughly 95% iron and 5% silicon. For home use they are generally coated with a porcelain coating material, called enamel. It is the enamel coating that gives the sink its color, design, and finish. Such enameled cast iron kitchen sinks are highly resistant to heat… around 1000 degrees. That allows you to slip hot dishes right onto the sink, when required, without having to bother about any damage.

They are quite easy to maintain also, as they are coated with stain resistant material, so no more scrubbing with abrasive cleansers or steel wool. A soft sponge is enough to keep it clean.

Undermount cast iron kitchen sinks

Undermount cast iron kitchen sinks are heavy in weight and need care during installation. Hence it is important that you measure the countertop hole dimensions properly before selecting a sink for it. An undermount cast iron kitchen sink requires firm and solid support because of its heavy weight. It would require firm securing from underneath. The base cabinetry that supports it may require modifications to provide a strong and secured support.

If you are not comfortable or confident of installing your undermount cast iron kitchen sink yourself, you can always consider having the contractor install it for you.

Black or white: the choice is yours

Choosing the color of cast iron kitchen sinks depends on how clean you can keep it on a regular day to day basis. Black cast iron sink would be easy on cleaning as black color nicely hides the water marks or any other food stain. However, scratches are bound to show. Compared to this, a white cast iron sink would need immense care (everyday cleaning) and would show spots and stains from food items immediately. However, scratches will be less visible, as white can match and hide with the surface below the enamel.

Antique and vintage cast iron kitchen sinks

It is interesting to know that during postwar period of 1946 to early 50s, a lot of white-enamel-on-cast-iron sinks were made and used in the farmhouse kitchens. Such antique cast iron kitchen sinks were famously made and marketed by big names like Kohler, Youngstown etc. They were huge in sizes and were almost as majestic as ones we see in the market today. However, such sinks are rarely used today due to space constraints of the kitchen. But even today, if you do want to own one such prized accessory for your kitchen, you could research on the Internet for such vintage cast iron sink manufacturers.

Vintage cast iron kitchen sinks have their old world charm but need a good amount of aligning with the countertop hole. This could be cumbersome considering the size and weight of the sink.

Maintaining your cast iron kitchen sink

Cast iron kitchen sinks are a great choice as per their durability, outer look or finish. They can very well hide the water stains and are easy to clean and maintain. However, you need to consider few points to keep your cast iron kitchen sink last long. The porcelain coating can chip off if hit hard by some utensil or due to cleaning with an abrasive cleanser etc. If the coating chips off then the underlying iron can begin to rust.

Lighter colored cast iron kitchen sinks are bound to get scuff marks from heavy pots and pans or even tea bags (over a long time). So care needs to be taken to keep them stain free and scratch free. Gentle care will ensure a long lasting cast iron sink for your kitchen.

Click here for the best deals on cast iron kitchen sinks.

An undermount double bowl stainless steel corner kitchen sink in combination with quartz counters, bronze faucet and wood cabinets. Photo courtesy of Cardinal Custom Cabinetry

Large kitchens have the luxury of accommodating a corner kitchen cabinet easily but the same can also be considered for a small or medium L shaped kitchen. Instead of having the sink at the end of either of the L legs, you could plan it in the corner of the L shape.

Corner kitchen sinks have quite a few advantages. Firstly they occupy the dreaded corner point and thereby make it rarely accessed location. You could easily stack cleaning stuff in this cabinet under the sink and forget worrying about accessing it time and again through the day. Corner kitchen sinks give you a great flexibility and flow while working on your kitchen platforms. For instance, if your kitchen is U shape or L shape and you have a corner kitchen sink; it would be easier to move around in between your cleaning of veggies, fruits or dishes to cooking (from the corner kitchen sink to either of the platforms on the sides).

Corner kitchen sink designs available in the market vary from simple to stylish, affordable to expensive and in various colors. They are available in various materials like stainless steel, natural stone, granite, cast iron, clay, acrylic, enameled steel etc. Single and double bowl corner kitchen sinks are readily available. In all these materials, you can get a host of colors to choose from. However, corner kitchen sink design alone is not enough while making a decision; you need to see its functionality and durability over a period of time. Hence go for material and capacity that suits your daily cleaning requirements and can endure the everyday wear and tear from washing of dishes.

Sink depth is another feature that must be considered well before purchase. Depth should be considered as per ease of the user (one who has to do cleaning work for long hours), cleaning load and ease of maintenance of the sink.

Undermount corner kitchen sinks are available in different shapes and sizes. Ones with round corners are best suited to any kitchen as they are relatively easier to clean as opposed to those with straight corners (like a square or a rectangular sink). Again, they are available in single and double bowl capacities. Single bowl undermount corner kitchen sinks are suited to small kitchens while double bowl sinks suit a large kitchen or in case you have a regular heavier load.

Installation of a corner kitchen sink is not as difficult as perceived by many. In fact, installing it is as easy as installing a sink at the end of one of your kitchen platforms. Undermount corner kitchen sinks should be carefully installed below the countertop, keeping in mind to firmly secure it with clips. Determining the exact dimensions of the countertop hole and the size of undermount corner kitchen sink is a pre-requisite that must be carried out before purchasing one, otherwise installation may be difficult. If you are not comfortable or confident of installing your corner kitchen sink yourself, you can always consider having the contractor install it for you.

While planning a new kitchen you can decide on whether you want to go for a corner kitchen sink or one at the end of the L or U shapes. In this case, it is much easier to install as you still have not fixed the cabinets and water pipe links. However, deciding on a corner kitchen sink can be a little difficult for already established kitchens, wherein you may not only have to do extra cabinetry work, but also change the pipes to route the water flow towards the corner cabinet. In either case, you should plan well because it is not an easy task to change the kitchen layout in a year or two. Think about durability, functionality and above all ease of use and access.

Click here for the best deals on corner kitchen sinks.

A beautiful undermount composite double bowl granite kitchen sink in combination with granite countertops. Photo courtesy of Waitingroomfun.com

Granite kitchen sinks have a rustic look that adds a natural appearance to the adjoining kitchen platforms. At the same time they are quite easy to clean and maintain too. Due to their high durability, granite kitchen sinks can easily hide scratches and blemishes. Granite kitchen sinks are heavier in weight as compared to the other materials like stainless steel. Hence they require a very strong support underneath and must be installed with care.

Composite granite kitchen sinks

Composite granite kitchen sinks are made of crushed natural granite and acrylic compounds. The material is tougher and more resistant to heat. It is also quite durable, resistant to chipping and scratches that come with heavy duty cleaning and everyday use. The hardness of a composite granite kitchen sink doesn’t spare the expensive glass and chinaware, and hence care should be taken while washing them in such a sink. It is much lighter in weight as compared to the regular solid granite sink.

However, installation of composite granite sinks requires care as there are chances of cracking while hammering in the knockout hole. Undermount composite granite kitchen sinks must be supported securely to prevent their collapse through the countertop hole. If you are not comfortable or confident of installing your undermount granite kitchen sink yourself, you can always consider having the contractor install it for you.

Black granite kitchen sinks

Black granite kitchen sinks are the most stylish and classiest granite sinks. Though there are other colors available but black is usually chosen for its beauty and ability to hide the scratches or wear and tear. Cleaning and maintenance is therefore a must to keep the shine and beauty of black granite kitchen sinks.

Choosing a granite kitchen sink

While choosing a granite kitchen sink, you may like to consider a few points before making the final purchase.

Firstly you may want to consider the dimensions of the countertop hole in order to decide the right size of the granite kitchen sink. Again the size would also depend on the size of your kitchen. In case you have a small kitchen, you would like to save space by keeping sink size small. However, in case you have a large kitchen, you may want to go for a large sink.

In case you are replacing the sink, additional cabinetry work may be required. Faucet and sink accessory should be planned in advance for deciding on number of faucet holes for the sink.

Again depending on the regularity, load and kind of cleaning work, you may want to go for a double bowl granite kitchen sink instead of just a single bowl granite kitchen sink. Double bowl sinks have an advantage as one bowl can be used for cleaning while the other for regular cooking related work. However, they suit a large kitchen and may not be a great idea for a small kitchen.

Whether you need deep bowls is another consideration depending on your workload, height and ease of cleaning. All these features can significantly affect in making your cleaning work pleasant or cumbersome. Hence decide on them well in advance before you make a final purchase. Different colored granite kitchen sinks are available to suit the décor of your kitchen, but black granite kitchen sink is always an option if you want to add a dash of class and style.

Granite kitchen sinks need gentle care to last long and maintain its good shine. Abrasive or harsh cleaners should not be used and after every use you must wipe it clean and dry. Once or twice a month cleaning is good enough to keep it clean and shining long.

Click here for the best deals on granite kitchen sinks. Among the well-known manufacturers of granite kitchen sinks are Blanco, Swanstone, Pegasus and Elkay.

Undermount stainless steel kitchen sinks

Stainless steel kitchen sinks come in a wide variety and type. Undermount stainless steel kitchen sinks are very much in demand these days due to their low and sleek look as they are fitted and pressed to the bottom of the counter. Undermount kitchen sinks are available in different materials like stainless steel, concrete, acrylic, natural stone, copper, bronze, cast iron and fireclay etc. However, undermount stainless steel kitchen sinks have gained popularity over others for their ease of use, maintenance and durability. The look is cleaner and consistent and they are quite affordable. However, dried water spots and mineral spots may show unless it is wiped dry after use, but it is much better than natural stone or concrete sinks which are prone to cracks, breakage etc.

Undermount double bowl stainless steel kitchen sink fitted to the bottom of a granite countertop. Photo courtesy of HelloDaly.com

Drop-in stainless steel kitchen sinks

Drop-in stainless steel kitchen sinks are an easy and convenient way to give a new look to your kitchen and at the same time experiment with your sink. While purchasing a drop-in stainless steel kitchen sink, keep exact dimensions of the hole in the countertop. A drop-in stainless steel kitchen sink installation requires sink clips to secure it into the countertop and most of sinks come with clips. Step-by-step installation of drop-in stainless steel kitchen sinks is readily available on the Internet or you could contact the local kitchen hardware shop. If you are not comfortable or confident of installing your drop-in stainless steel kitchen sink yourself, you can always consider having the contractor install it for you.

Single bowl stainless steel kitchen sinks

Stainless steel kitchen sinks are available in single or double bowl. While large kitchens with good space can afford double kitchen sinks, smaller kitchens regularly face a space crisis and should therefore be fitted with single bowl stainless steel kitchen sinks. They are available in various dimensions to suit not just the space crunch but also to make it easier to accommodate the daily load within the available space. Undermount single bowl stainless steel kitchen sinks are available in square, rectangular, round and oval shapes. A good depth would ensure optimized usage of space and cater to cleaning work efficiently.

Stainless steel double kitchen sinks

With large kitchen comes the onus of more cleaning as cooking process spans over different platforms in the kitchen. And in case you have a big family, then everyday load of utensils and dishes calls for an organized and heavy cleaning process. Double bowl stainless steel kitchen sinks are a boon for such situations. While one of the bowls can be used for dumping used dishes and utensils, the other is still available for cleaning, filling water or simply stacking washed utensils till they dry out. Ensure that you measure countertop properly while selecting a double bowl stainless steel kitchen sink.

Stainless steel corner kitchen sinks

Stainless steel corner kitchen sinks are a great way to optimize space in the corner. Firstly, accessing the corner cabinet is always a problem, so installing a sink at the corner greatly reduces your effort in accessing cleaning tools and liquids kept below. Secondly it also utilizes space efficiently in case of small kitchens. And thirdly it allows better stacking of cleansed items to the desired platform (you may wash the utensils and stack them on the left platform while keeping washed veggies etc. on the right platform, nearer to your cook-top).

Stainless steel sink gauge

Stainless steel sink gauge is an aspect that you need to know before buying a sink for your kitchen. It is the thickness of the steel used in making the sink. They are numbered from 22 to 16 or 15. The lower the number, the thicker is the steel used. 18 or lower number is good enough to be durable and long lasting. Despite this fact, you may want to consider the price difference amongst the various gauge numbers. So make an optimal choice of stainless steel sink gauge and price while selecting.

Selecting a sink that suits your needs requires a thorough understanding of the various features and innovative styles available in the market. Stainless steel kitchen sink manufacturers may have different quality and types available. You can research the brands, quality, type and prices on the Internet before purchasing one. Among the well-known manufacturers of stainless steel kitchen sinks are Kohler, Franke, Blanco and Elkay.

Special features of kitchen faucets

Types of handle

Some faucets have only one handle, either fixed to the spout or standing apart from it. With these faucets you can quickly and easily control the flow of water and its temperature with one hand. This is especially useful when your hands are full or dirty.

Single handle kitchen faucet

Other kitchen faucets have two handles: one for cold water and the other for hot. The existence of two handles and two flows of water enables you to adjust the water temperature more precisely. More designs are available for two-handled faucets, as well.

Two handle kitchen faucet

If the handles have the shape of a lever or cross, you will be able to grasp and turn them more easily; levers are especially suitable for people with various physical disabilities.

Types of spout

The spouts of the kitchen faucets may be long, curved, straight, short, etc. Look for a faucet where the spout directs the water to the center of the basin of your sink.

If you will be washing large pots or pans, choose a faucet with a big spout that you can turn aside, with a high arch; for example, one about 14 inches (36 cm) long. Then it will be easy to put your large kitchen utensils in the sink and remove them after washing. Again choose a faucet with a big spout if your sink is big or you have several basins. Then the spout will cover as much of the sink as possible.

Pot filler

There is also one special spout – also known as a pot filler. You install it on the wall near the range to fill large pots with water when you cook. This saves you from having to carry these heavy utensils from the sink to the range. For this spout you will usually need a separate water pipe, supplying cold water.

Kitchen faucets operation

The quality of faucets depends on the materials and their mode of operation. To control the flow of water, they use such parts as…

• rubber washers
• ball valves
• ceramic cartridges
• ceramic disks…

Rubber washers wear out comparatively quickly, predisposing your faucet to leak. Ceramic disks or cartridges are far stronger and long-lasting. Faucets with such parts are more expensive, but they require little maintenance.

Kitchen faucets materials

Chrome and brass are materials of sufficiently good quality and are among the most frequently used materials for kitchen faucets. These are also faucets that require little maintenance.

Other materials may be used for the finishes on faucets, over a base of brass. For example, nickel, stainless steel, copper, zinc, bronze, silver, gold, etc. These materials can have a polished or matte finish, and may be used in combination with porcelain, glass or wood.

Keep in mind that there are some faucets you can buy in separate parts. Thus, you will be able to combine different materials, colors and shapes, to create your own design.

Kitchen faucets installation

You can install your faucet in the kitchen in three ways…

• through the sink
• through the countertop
• through the wall

The manufacturers usually supply detailed instructions on how to install the faucet. Another option is to use the services of a professional.

Extra accessories

Some accessories are sold together with your faucet, but you will need to buy others separately. Some of them are installed at the side of your faucet, while others are attached to its spout. For accessories that you will install at the side of your faucet you will need a separate hole in the sink or countertop (which you need depends on the type of installation of the faucet).

1. Spray: a body with a hose through which water runs. This helps you with washing big utensils, rinsing vegetables, cleaning up your sink… You have to be able to reach all areas of your sink with it.

You install the side spray separately from your faucet; on the left or on the right, depending on what will be more comfortably for you.

A pull-out spray (from the spout) will be your best option if you think you will use it frequently and you wish to change the water jet quickly from normal to spray and vice versa.

2. Water filter: for cleaning water; drinking water, for example. The filter will eliminate filth, rust, scale, chemicals, lead, etc. Water filters can be either fixed to the spout of the faucet or separately.

3. Soap dispenser: a container for supplying hand soap. You install it separately from your faucet and eliminate the need for a bottle with liquid soap on the countertop, thus creating a tidier appearance.

4. Hot water dispenser: a spout, supplying hot water. You can use it to prepare different drinks, for example, tea and coffee. You usually install it separately from your faucet.

5. Hole cover: you put it in holes of the sink or the countertop that you don’t use anymore. For example, if you don’t want a soap dispenser anymore, you can cover the hole left from it with the hole cover. Such covers are useful in that they improve the aesthetic appearance of your countertop and sink, and leave open the option of installing more accessories later.

6. Escutcheon plate: this functions like the hole cover, but you can cover several holes with it, not just one. You will add beauty to your faucet with it. It is desirable to make its color match the color of the faucet.

7. Scald protection: by this function you can set the maximum water temperature, to avoid burning from extremely hot water. It is especially useful if you have small children at home.

Conclusion

1. It’s good if the design of your faucet complements that of your sink (or of the kitchen furnishings, for example, the metal wares in the room).

2. When you buy kitchen faucets (with possible accessories), you should bear in mind the following factors, to avoid problems with installation…

• the number of holes available in your sink, countertop or wall
• the size of these holes and the spaces between them
• the size of the outlets for the water supply in the wall

3. The prices of faucets vary according to the quality. Buy the best faucet you can afford. This is an appliance you will use constantly, so you need quality materials and construction.

4. If you want your faucet to be accessible to people with disabilities, look for one that conforms to the requirements of Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Click here for the best deals on kitchen faucets.

How-To Videos

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• the size of the cabinet underneath your sink.
• the size of your countertop (whether it has backsplash or not).
• the material of your countertop.
• the way you will use your sink.
• your preferences.
• how much you can afford.

Characteristics of kitchen sinks

Sinks may have different shapes…

• rectangular.
• square.
• round.
• oval.
• other shapes for a more decorative look; for example, an L-shape for corner mounting, or ones that protrude a little further out than the cabinet at the front…

According to the number of basins, kitchen sinks may be…

Single basin kitchen sink

1. Single-basin: this is a smaller sink. If you have a kitchen island, you might like to mount a single-basin sink in it, auxiliary to your main sink. If you have a dishwasher, you can rinse the dishes in this sink before putting them in the appliance. If its basin is fairly large and deep (10 or 12 inches (25-30 cm) in depth) this sink may be more comfortable for you to wash large utensils in than a standard sink with two identical basins.

Double basin kitchen sink

2. Double-basin: a sink of standard 33 inches (84 cm) length to 22 inches (56 cm) width that fits perfectly to the standard sink cabinet – 36 inches (91 cm) length to 24 inches (61 cm) width. Its basins are most often identical.

It’s a good selection for a sink if you wash your dishes manually; you wash them in one of the basins and rinse them in the other one. If one of the basins is bigger and deeper, it will be easier for you to wash large utensils, such as pots and pans.

Triple basin kitchen sink

3. Triple-basin: this kitchen sink is bigger. You can use one of the basins to wash the dishes and the other one to rinse them. Use the third one (usually smaller) to wash vegetables or install a garbage disposal unit in it.

Materials for kitchen sinks

The materials that follow are popular variants for such sinks; but you can see sinks from other materials as well, such as enameled steel, porcelain, fireclay, brass and copper.

1. Stainless steel

A functional material. With it, your sink and countertop may be a whole unit, without any joints. This facilitates cleaning and gives your sink a unified look.

Objects, such as dishes and glasses, dropped in a stainless steel sink are less likely to break.

Other qualities…

• durable, non-breakable, heat-resistant.
• neutral color: the metal nuance complements most colors.
• easy to service: this is the choice for sinks in public establishments.

Disadvantages…

• it is easy to scratch.
• it is noisy during work.
• it may dent.

Learn more about stainless steel kitchen sinks.

2. Enameled cast iron

Usually a more expensive material. It represents a cast-iron base with enameled finish. Here are some of its properties…

• durable, heat-resistant.
• various colors are available.
• dampens noise and vibrations of the sink.

Disadvantages…

• breakable.
• warm water in the sink basin loses its heat rapidly.
• it is more likely that fallen objects will break.

Learn more about cast iron kitchen sinks.

3. Solid surface

Synthetic material. As with stainless steel, your sink and countertop can consist of a single unit.

Other properties…

• durable, easy to service.
• various colors are available.
• you can remove minor damage (scratches, burns…).

Disadvantages…

• vulnerable to heat.
• easily scratched.

4. Composite

Such a sink is made from natural materials such as quartz, granite, etc. together with synthetics. The color is the same over the entire area and thickness of the kitchen sink. Hence, it will be more difficult to notice any faults.

Other properties…

• different colors are available.
• easy to service.
• durable, non-breakable, heat- and stain-resistant.

Kitchen sink installation

You may install your sink in a number of ways…

Stainless steel self-rimming kitchen sink

1. As a self-rimming sink: here, your sink overlaps the countertop. It’s good for your countertop to be made from a smooth material (laminate, natural stone…), thus allowing the sink to align itself perfectly with the countertop.

The disadvantage here is that you will find it more difficult to clean around the sink. With time it may also gather dirt, where your sink joins the countertop.

With this kind of installation, your faucet will usually be mounted on the sink itself.

Stainless steel undermount kitchen sink

2. As an undermount sink: here, your countertop overlaps the sink. In this case, no joints with the sink are seen on the countertop, giving an appearance of simplicity. It is easy to clean around such a sink; you can wipe waste straight from the countertop to the sink.

Bear in mind that, in this case, your countertop will be exposed to water from the side as well. If it is made from laminate it may spoil.

With this kind of installation, your faucet will be mounted on the countertop.

Porcelain tile-in kitchen sink

3. As a tile-in sink: here, your sink is on the level of the countertop. If your countertop is tiled, this type of sink installation is especially convenient. Sinks are flat at the ends, and their edges are at right angles. Thus they fit well to the tiles.

Again, it will be easy to clean the countertop, wiping in the direction of the sink. However, the grout between the tiles, and between the sink and the countertop, will gather dirt with time.

4. As an integral sink: as I mentioned above, your sink and countertop here are a single unit, without any joints. For such a sink and countertop you need such materials as…

• stainless steel.
• solid surface.
• concrete…

5. You can also mount a sink on the wall.

To be sure of the quality of your kitchen sink installation, I recommend that you employ the services of a professional.

Accessories to kitchen sinks

With these accessories, usually bought separately, you will make your sink more functional. Here are some examples…

• Bottom basin rack: protecting the inner part of the basin from wearing out.
• Dish rack: for washed dishes, utensils and other belongings.
• Over-the-sink cutting board: for vegetables, for example. Some boards have also a small colander for washing/rinsing these foods.
• Garbage disposal: for grinding large or hard remnants of food before they go to the drain.
• Colander: for washing/rinsing different foods (fruits, vegetables…).

Other helpful hints

1. You must keep your kitchen décor in mind before selecting the design of your kitchen sink. From the wide assortment of sinks it is not difficult to choose the right type that blends with your kitchen décor.

2. When selecting kitchen sink from stainless steel, pay attention to its thickness. The thicker the sink, the higher the quality. For example, an 18 gauge or lower one is thicker than a 22/23 gauge, making it a better choice for a sink. A thicker sink is quieter, more dent-resistant and maintains the water temperature in the basins for a longer time.

3. Sinks that have bigger and deeper basins, a flat bottom and vertical walls make it more comfortable for you to work. The area is larger, your utensils will lie well on the bottom and the water jet won’t splash outside.

4. Look for kitchen sinks with special technologies on the underside. These technologies dampen noise, protect against condensation and help to control the water temperature in the basin.

5. Sinks cost from less than $100 to more than $1000, depending on the size, the materials and their properties, such as we are discussing now. Buy the best kitchen sink you can afford. This is an appliance you will use constantly, so you need quality materials and construction.

The popular names for kitchen sinks are Blanco, Kohler, Franke, Pegasus, American Standard, Elkay, Kindred and Swanstone.

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