Beginning any remodeling project is an exciting endeavor that’s usually months, if not years, in the making. It’s a time when your Pinterest board, Instagram saves, and magazine clippings all come together. While functionality choices may not be as exciting as the aesthetic selections, some would argue they’re more important. Selecting a kitchen sink may not be at the top of your fun list, but like choosing the material for your kitchen countertops, there are several differences to consider that can affect your sink’s functionality, style, and maintenance which will impact how you work in your kitchen.
So Many Material Options
Kitchen sinks are available in various materials, each with its advantages and drawbacks:
- Stainless Steel – Durable and easy to clean
- Porcelain/Enamel – Traditional and attractive, but can chip or stain
- Composite Granite – Resistant to scratches and heat
- Cast Iron – Very durable, but heavy
When selecting your sink material, consider your lifestyle and the level of maintenance you are willing to undertake. Certain materials require more care and cleaning to maintain their appearance. For instance, if you love to paint, a porcelain or enamel sink may not be your best option for a brush-cleaning station.
Don’t Forget to Measure
When planning for a new sink, you also need to consider the size of your kitchen and the available space for the sink. The sink’s dimensions should match your needs for food preparation, dishwashing, and overall functionality. You can choose from single-bowl sinks (one large basin), double-bowl sinks (two equal or different-sized basins), or even triple-bowl sinks (three basins). Some of our favorite sinks are The Galley sinks. They come in multiple sizes, configurations, and with a ton of optional accessories like cutting boards, serving boards, wash caddies, utensil caddies, drying racks, and more.
Mounting Options
A major characteristic to not overlook is how your sink must be mounted as there are multiple options. The most common choices are drop-in or self-rimming, under-mount, and farmhouse/apron front. Drop-in sinks are inserted into a hole cut into the countertop, with the rim resting on top; under-mount sinks are installed beneath the countertop for a seamless look; and farmhouse sinks have a large, exposed front panel that extends beyond the countertop. The style and architecture of your home should help guide you in determining which mounting option is most appropriate.
Is it a Back-Breaker?
Along with the mounting option, don’t forget to consider the bowl depth of the sink. The depth of the sink bowl affects its functionality as deeper bowls can accommodate larger items and provide more space for soaking or washing. However, they may also require bending over more when using the sink. Consider your preferences and needs for daily use.
Appropriate Design
The one factor that could probably go unsaid, but won’t, is the style and design you want for your kitchen sink. The sink should complement the overall style of your kitchen (and home). Think about elements such as the shape of the sink (square, round, rectangular, etc.), the style of the faucet holes (the type of faucet you want comes into play here which we’ll get to in a moment), and any additional accessories you’d like.
Faucets Aren’t One Size Fits All
Sometimes homeowners don’t think about faucet compatibility. It’s a detail that’s easily overlooked when you’re caught up in the excitement of the aesthetics. You want to ensure that the sink you choose is compatible with the type of faucet you prefer. Some sinks have pre-drilled holes for specific faucet configurations, while others allow for customization. You’ll need to determine not only the number of holes needed for the faucet but also possible holes for a soap dispenser, spray nozzle, and maybe even a garbage disposal button. However, nowadays, most homeowners opt for the spray nozzle to be incorporated into the faucet eliminating the need for at least one extra hole.
What About the Budget?
Finally, consider your budget. The price of kitchen sinks can vary significantly based on the available characteristics and accessories. As with most material selections, determine your budget range then find a sink that meets your requirements without exceeding your financial limits. Sometimes you may have to compromise, but thankfully there are a plethora of sinks available for every style, in every budget, and in most materials.
