Choosing the Right Kitchen Sink Materials

Getting your kitchen interior done? Choosing your kitchen sink is one of the most important decisions you will make. Make the wrong choice, and you might have to live with it, since the counter is cut to the exact dimensions of the sink and the plumbing is customized as well!

We’re here to give you the lowdown on the material options for your kitchen sink. Each type comes with advantages and disadvantages, so read on and make an informed decision.

Types of Kitchen Sinks

If you are opting for a modular kitchen, you’ll be choosing the kitchen sink at the very outset, together with the rest of the kitchen appliances and accessories. Your sink will be neatly fitted into a pre-designated area on the counter, and if you are buying an apartment this space is usually already defined by the builder.

Many first-time sink shoppers can be overwhelmed with the variety of materials to choose from, and settle for ones that they have heard about or are most familiar with. A good insight into different kitchen sink materials can go a long way in making the choice that’s best suited for your cooking.

1. Stainless Steel Kitchen Sinks

Among the most popular sinks, stainless steel sinks are used by a large majority of all homes, and with good reason too! They are beautiful, low on maintenance and also a lot cheaper compared to other sink materials.

• Stainless steel sinks are pocket-friendly.
• Their versatility ensures that they can be installed in different ways; under-mounted, top mounted and standalone.
• These sinks come in a number of different gauges. The lighter the gauge of steel, the more easily will it get dented.
• Higher gauges are more expensive and will also last longer.
• Stainless steel surfaces scratch easily, and will also show up hard water spots.
• Stainless steel is durable and will last a great many years.
• These sinks are also very resistant to heat and staining.

2. Stone Kitchen Sinks

Stone sinks are becoming increasingly popular and seeing a revival of sorts in modern Indian homes. Not only is this material gorgeous to look at, but it is also environmentally sustainable and readily available.

• Stone sinks are usually made of cudappah, granite or marble.
• These sinks are usually carved out of a single piece of stone and can either be left in their natural rough state or be made smooth and even.
• Stone sinks can be carved out of the same countertop material to maintain uniformity and looks.
• Whatever the design may be, these sinks require additional reinforcements built into the countertop and cabinets for support
• Soapstone and granite sinks don’t stain or scratch easily and are also heat resistant. Marble sinks can stain but a good sealer can help prevent the same. Re-sealing has to be done at regular intervals.

3. Porcelain Enamel Kitchen Sinks

Also known as farmhouse sinks, porcelain enamel sinks are simple, elegant and contemporary. They merge well with both traditional and modern homes. They are rather heavy and require a support structure to hold them in place.
Enamel has been used in kitchens for decades. These sinks are sturdy and long-lasting. However, they can get chipped with rough usage. Enamel sinks which have a porcelain coating are more durable and cannot be scratched or chipped easily.

• They are available in two versions: Porcelain enamel on cast iron which is heavy, and porcelain enamel on steel which is both lighter and cheaper.
• While they are most commonly available in lustrous white, they also come in different colours.
• These sinks are easy to clean and maintain and do not show up water spots easily.
• Porcelain enamel sinks are heavier and therefore more difficult to install, and are also more expensive than stainless steel.
• Enamel sinks without the porcelain coating can, however, chip or crack easily.

4. Quartz Kitchen Sinks

Quartz sinks are available in many different colours, and are made of a composite of quartz crystals combined with an acrylic resin filler. Quartz sinks have a beautiful design and finish and are available with or without a drainboard.

• Quartz sinks are tough and resistant to scratches and stains.
• They are heat resistant and do not get dented.
• They are also more durable and long-lasting.
• They are much more expensive than stainless steel sinks.

5. Corian Kitchen Sinks

Corian from DuPontTM is a popular countertop material that comes in an impressive variety of colours and styles. If you have opted for a Corian countertop, then a sink in the same material would be the logical way to go!

• A Corian sink is almost completely seamless and can be moulded into form, with rounded edges to prevent the accumulation of grime in the corners.
• Corian is nonporous and completely resistant to the growth of mould or mildew.
• You can opt for any kind of edge treatment and inlays.
• Prefabricated Corian sinks are also available.
• Corian is stain and heat resistant and does not get scratched easily.
• Corian is more expensive than stainless steel, granite or other stones. Prices could be on par with those of Quartz.

Ready to get a Pinterest-worthy kitchen? While there are plenty of kitchen sink material options to choose from, an experienced kitchen designer will be able to give you greater insights into what works best for your cooking space. Reach out to us at HomeLane for ideas and options!