Materials used to construct sinks can play a big part in shaping both the look and functionality of your kitchen. Read up on some of the most commonly used kitchen sink materials and discover which might work best for your family.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel fixtures are highly resilient and easy to maintain – an ideal combination for modern kitchens. Available as a single basin or double basin option with under-mount installation. Although stainless steel does show fingerprints more quickly than other materials, fingerprints, smudges, and streaks can still be easily wiped off with regular use of an antibacterial kitchen sink cleaner designed specifically for stainless steel.
Stainless sinks are constructed from chromium-nickel steel, which is extremely strong and corrosion-resistant. When looking for stainless steel kitchen sinks from Kraus USA – the higher the percentage of chromium, the longer its ability to resist tarnishing and pitting. Lower grades tend to be cheaper but may be more prone to pitting and discoloration; most quality stainless steel sinks contain at least 18% of this element.
Kitchen sink manufacturers create stainless steel fixtures by stamping or welding sheets of material into a sink shape. Stamped fixtures may be more cost-effective, yet they may exhibit visible seams, cracks, or scratches more easily than hand-welded models. It is crucial that, when purchasing stainless steel fixtures, you choose one with an adequate gauge.
Chemicals such as chlorine bleach, muriatic acid, and common household cleaners contain chlorides that will corrode or stain stainless steel surfaces, so these should be rinsed off the sink immediately after use to avoid etching and dulling of its finish.
Solid Surface
Solid surface kitchen sinks are constructed from polyester or acrylic resins and come in several styles and colors to suit every decor style and need. As a nonporous material, a solid surface resists mildew growth as well as dirt accumulation – it can even be formed to mimic other materials like stone or porcelain for an authentic appearance! Solid surface is an increasingly popular material choice among commercial projects due to its easy handling capabilities, long life span, durability, and affordable costs.
Also Read: Under-Sink Water Filters : Everything You Need To Know
Stainless steel sinks are perfect for high-traffic areas as they can withstand years of use with tough cleaning products, as well as being easily resurfaced when necessary. In high-end kitchens where quality and durability are of significant importance, foodservice environments, healthcare environments, or hospitality settings. They have antiseptic properties, making them the perfect material.
Porcelain
Porcelain sinks are constructed from thick gauge cast iron or steel with an enamel layer and come in an assortment of colors to coordinate with fixtures, backsplashes, countertops, cabinets, and other design elements in your kitchen. While white remains the classic hue, you will also find porcelain sinks in other hues or featuring patterns similar to marble and natural stones.
According to this article – porcelain is an ideal nonporous surface for busy families as its nonporous nature allows it to be cleaned easily and it doesn’t absorb stain or bacteria buildup, making it perfect for keeping bacteria under control and bacteria out. Unfortunately, heavy items dropped onto it can chip the surface, or it can even etch when exposed to high levels of iron in water, turning its enamel brown or reddish in color – although adding a grid may prevent further damage under such circumstances.
Copper
Copper sinks are an increasingly popular choice in kitchens. Considered more visually appealing than porcelain and steel models due to their warm hue and beautiful patina finish, copper adds an element of luxury while helping create an eye-catching appearance that stands out among other kitchen elements.
One of the many appealing qualities of copper is its antimicrobial properties. Its naturally occurring mineral can kill bacteria, making it ideal for plumbing fixtures and accessories.
Copper sinks that are of superior quality will age beautifully over time and develop a rich patina similar to how old copper coins change their hue with use – providing your copper sink with an aged, lived-in look perfect for rustic farmhouse designs.
Composite
The kitchen sink is the hub of every home. From defrosting food to washing up used utensils and pots, its role is essential. But not all sinks are created equal, so when selecting one to invest in, there can be many important considerations to make when making a decision about material choices for kitchen sinks. Today, we examine composite as an increasingly popular choice!
Composite kitchen sinks are composed of acrylic resins mixed with crushed natural materials like granite or quartz to produce an exceptionally hard and stain- and scratch-proof sink that offers heat resistance as well as stain and scratch protection. Available in multiple colors that either complement or contrast with kitchen worktops.
Just soap, water, and a sponge or scouring pad should suffice to maintain their beauty As with other surfaces, composite sinks can be damaged by harsh chemicals or cleaners that contain abrasives – even caustic drain cleaners can leave visible marks on them! While composite sinks are resistant to cracking from above, they still break when dropped from above – so always be cautious!
Many people recommend genuinely crafted granite for extreme durability as its real stone and rock-like appearance make a striking statement in any kitchen. Plus, each shade is saturated all through for vibrant color that will never fade!
Natural Stone
Have you seen the stunning natural stone fixtures featured in high-end design magazines? It is easy to understand their popularity. Natural stone sinks offer many advantages over stainless-steel ones and can easily complement almost any kitchen design aesthetic, while their wide array of colors, tones, and textures add visual interest in any space. These options range from granite and marble slabs all the way through limestone, travertine, and onyx options!
Stone fixtures tend to be more expensive than other options, but they have great character and longevity if properly sealed. Stone can add rustic or traditional style elements to your space and comes in farmhouse, top mount, and under-mount styles. Petrified wood sinks have even become available recently that incorporate fossilized pieces of petrified wood that have fossilized into stone over time!