Kitchen Sinks - Buying Tips
Kitchen Sinks are available in many different
Materials, Shapes and Sizes
By Mark J. Donovan
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The Kitchen sink is
command central in a kitchen. It is arguably the most import item in the
kitchen. Kitchen sinks are where we clean and prepare food, and where we clean
pots and pans, and dishes.
There are many
kitchen sinks to choose from when remodeling your kitchen. Kitchen sinks come in
many shapes and sizes and they are made from numerous materials. In the
subsequent sections of this article I attempt to cover the majority of kitchen
sink options and the benefits of each.
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Kitchen sinks can
be classified in several major styles. The major styles include:
Self-rimming / Flush Mounted Kitchen Sinks
These types of
sinks literally sit on top of the countertop. They have a rolled edge that sits
flush with the countertop when in place. Self-rimming / flush mounted kitchen
sinks are some of the most popular kitchen sinks styles as they are relatively
inexpensive.
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Integral Kitchen Sinks
Integral sinks are
kitchen sinks and countertops that are constructed out of the same material.
Integral kitchen sinks have no visible surface seams. Integral kitchen sinks are
usually more expensive, due to the material they are constructed out of, however
they provide for an extremely modern look.
Rimmed Kitchen Sinks
Rimmed kitchen
sinks use a narrow flat metal strip to secure the sink to the countertop.
It is a very common
sink style due to its affordability.
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Tile-In Kitchen Sinks
Tile kitchen sinks
are usually used with tile countertops. The tile-in kitchen sink is often
designed to create a seamless connection with the tile countertop.
Undermounted Kitchen Sinks
Undermounted
kitchen sinks have been increasing in popularity, particularly on higher end
kitchen remodeling projects. As the name suggests, the kitchen sink mounts on
the underside of the kitchen countertop to create a smooth appearance.
Undermounted kitchen sinks are ideal for kitchen work, as there is no kitchen
sink /countertop surface seam to trap water or food crumbs.
Kitchen sinks are also made from numerous
materials
Standard Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink
Stainless steel
kitchen sinks have been extremely popular for years. They are resistant to
corrosion, dents and dings, particularly the heavier gauge ones, and they come
in many different sizes and shapes. They are however noisy.
Soapstone Kitchen Sinks
Soapstone kitchen
sinks have been increasing in popularity due to their durability and attractive
appearance. They are also bacteria resistant, completely non-porous and do not
require sealants. You frequently see soapstone kitchen sinks use in integral
kitchen sink/countertop applications.
Copper Kitchen Sinks
Copper kitchen
sinks have also become very popular. Unlike the industrial look of stainless
steel kitchen sinks, copper kitchen sinks provide a look of warmth to the
kitchen. In addition, copper kitchen sinks can be shaped into many different
forms to create unique kitchen sink designs. Copper sinks however do require
some maintenance and they are sensitive to heat, so some extra care is needed
with them.
Porcelain Coated Cast Iron Kitchen Sinks
Porcelain coated
cast iron kitchen sinks are extremely attractive, durable and heavy. Because of
their density and weight they are extremely quiet. They usually are available
in self-rimming styles and are typically mounted above countertops. They are
available in many different colors. The one concern with them is that there is a
higher risk of glass breakage due to their density and rigidity.
Enameled Steel Kitchen Sinks
Enameled steel
kitchen sinks can provide an elegant look and are easy to clean. They are
typically amounted above the counter. When selecting an enameled sink it is best
to purchase one with a heavy enamel coating to reduce the risk of chipping.
Enameled kitchen sinks are moderately priced.
Kitchen Sink Shapes and Sizes
The standard
kitchen sink size is 22 x 30 inches however kitchen sinks come in many different
shapes and sizes. Most common are 2 bowl sinks however there are single bowl and
triple bowl options as well.
Besides your common
double bowl sink, there are single bowl bar sinks and gourmet sinks. There are
also deep kitchen preparation sinks and apron front sinks, all of which come in
different sizes, shapes, and materials.
When selecting a
kitchen sink make sure you check with your kitchen designer on whether the style
of the sink, and the material it is made of, is appropriate with your countertop
selection. You choice of countertops can affect your kitchen sink choices.
The task of
selecting a kitchen sink is almost endless so make sure you shop around before
purchasing one.
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Related information on Kitchen Remodeling
Additional Kitchen Design Resources
Kitchen Faucets and Appliances from Amazon.com
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