Kitchen Sinks Direct

What You Need To Know Before Buying A Kitchen Sink

The kitchen sink may not be the most important part of your kitchen but it certainly plays a major function. Remember that kitchen sinks are used everyday for washing the dishes, cleaning food items, scouring pots and pans, etc.

The many types of kitchen sinks can be differentiated according to their material construction, function and design. Most of them will not only make your kitchen stylish and attractive but will also make your work easier and comfortable. Following are the different types of kitchen sinks commercially available. This will help you choose the right type of kitchen sink that will fit your requirements.

Types of Kitchens Sinks According to their Material Construction
Here are the different types of materials used in making kitchen sinks:

• Stainless Steel – this is the most popular kitchen sink today. The durability and professional look of stainless steel is the main reason why it is used in restaurants, hotels and large commercial applications. Sinks made of stainless steel are very easy to clean and maintain.
• Granite – sinks made of granite are very unique because they are formed and integrated with the kitchen countertop. Normally there are no trim or grooves that are hard to reach with granite sinks.
• Copper – a special type of sink with a natural blue-green patina which is reminiscent of European traditional kitchen. Copper kitchen sinks will give your kitchen a very classic ambience. They are also very easy to clean and maintain.
• Cast Iron – these sinks are very strong and hardy. They are highly resistant to dents and scratches. They are designed for heavy-duty use and are very functional in kitchens of commercial establishments.
• Acrylic – also very durable and strong kitchen sinks. They can also take heavy-duty use since they are made to resist stains and scratches. Completely man-made, you can specify any surface color, texture and structural strength you like.

Types of Kitchen Sinks Based on their Style and Design
Since there are many types of kitchen activities performed in kitchen sinks, it became necessary to have different designs and styles that will be fit each type of activity. Here are the different styles and designs of kitchen sinks.

• Single Bowl – This is the most common household kitchen sink. It is just one large (or small) sink and typically deeper than that of other types. Sinks of this type are usually installed where there is a limited space.
• Double Bowl – This sink is composed of two sinks in one unit. This sink is common to houses with large families. It can be used for multi-tasking purposes where two persons can use the sink at the same time. The size of each sink can either be the same or not.
• Triple Bowl – This is a still larger sink consisting of 3 sinks in one unit. A triple bowl sink typically has two large sinks, and a third small sink. The smaller sink is usually at the center while the two larger sinks are on each end. These types of sinks are best for large families where three people can use the sink simultaneously.
• Self-Rimming Sink – This type of sink is very easy to install and replace because it has a rolled and finished edge. You just have to fit it into the sink hole of your countertop and clip the rim or edge on the countertop platform.
• Gourmet Sink – This is for the modern and avant-garde homeowner. It is available in different finishes and patterns and will add style and class to your kitchen. If you are a chef and you need specific features in your sink, a gourmet sink is just what you need.
• Bar Sink – This sink is smaller in size and is more of a preparatory sink or an entertainment sink. It can be an added fixture to a finished room like an entertainment room where you don’t need to go to the kitchen to fetch something that you need.
• Undermount Sink – This sink is actually recessed from the countertop surface to project a seamless image. It is typically mounted underneath which makes them very fitting for kitchen purposes.

Kitchen Sinks by Manufacturer
There are a large number of kitchen sink manufacturers, so we take a look at some of the best.

• Elkay Sinks - Exquisite sinks made from decades of experience. Large range of Elkay Sinks to choose from.

• Franke Kitchen Sinks are made of the highest quality materials, with the highest quality standards of workmanship. They are available in a large number of designs and sizes.

• Kindred Sinks - Quality and durability - check out the huge range of Kindred Kitchen Sinks.

Homeowners usually have difficulty in choosing a certain item for their homes because of the lack of knowledge about the finer points and specific choices to be made. Now that you have the essential knowledge about the different types of kitchen sinks available in the market, choosing the type of kitchen sink to install will no longer be a confusing and frustrating task.  

Farmhouse Kitchen Sinks - Essential information you need to know before buying a farmhouse kitchen sink, including advantages, disadvantages, choices of material and choices of style.

Corner Kitchen Sinks - We have a huge range of corner kitchen sinks, so have something to suit every budget and style.

Ceramic Kitchen Sinks are stylish, functional and affordable - A wide range of styles and prices available.

Granite Kitchen Sinks - Advantages and disadvantages of granite sinks. We have a large range of granite sinks to choose from.

Composite Kitchen Sinks - Modern and Exotic Composite Sinks. What are the advantages and disadvatages? What maintenance do they need?

Apron Front Sinks - Huge range of styles and designs of apron front sinks. Find out the advantages and disadvantages before buying.

Black Kitchen Sinks - Black sinks are very sleek and modern, and the ideal accessory to show your kitchen at it's best.

Kitchen Sinks Undermount - Ideal for stone countertops. Large selection of designs and styles.

Kitchen Sink Installation - Basic guide to installing a kitchen sink, including preparation, tools needed and fitting process.

Kitchen Sink Plumbing - We give you everything you need to know about this tricky subject.

There is lots of info on this site, so check all the relevant pages before buying a kitchen sink.