Types Of Kitchen Sink
The sink in your kitchen should be both functional and stylish. Kitchen sinks come in various types, sizes, shapes, and styles. They can be categorized based on their installation process, materials, and other factors.
Some choices are practical, while others are just aesthetic. Different types of kitchen sinks have their own set of advantages, but the style you choose will be influenced by the size, installation, and use of the sink.
Let’s look at the various types of kitchen sinks.
Based On Installation
Top Mount Sink
Top mount kitchen sink, also known as a drop-in sink or self-rimming sink, is the most common type of sink. Here a sink is put into a hole in the countertop with little to no support underneath it. This sink is affordable and can be installed on most countertops.
Top mount sinks usually come in durable stainless steel but are also available in porcelain or cast iron. Top-mount kitchen sinks lack the sleek look of under-mount kitchen sinks and collects dirt with time.
Undermount Sink
Undermount sinks are installed below the countertop on a frame that supports it completely. They are great for solid surfaces like granite. Undermount sinks are made from durable materials; hence, laminate and tile are not options.
They are a great addition to any home with a sleek, modern appearance. Undermount sink also makes cleaning up spills and messes easy because you can simply swipe everything into the sink.
They combine functionality, convenience, and a clean appearance, making it one of the easiest installation options. These sinks have far too many weaknesses in terms of structural integrity. The most popular choices are granite and quartz.
Flush Mount Sink
A flush mount sink, also known as a tiled-edge sink, is supported by the base cabinets and sits flush with the countertop. It is made of the same material as the countertop and sinks basin, resulting in a continuous and attractive unit.
Because the edges are absolutely seamless, it is difficult to tell that they are two independent pieces of material. The countertop and sink are made separately and then assembled during installation. It produces a similar visual impact as the Undermount sink, but the installation technique is different.
A grout line should be applied to create a strong bond between the sink and the countertop, keeping the overall design constant and smooth. That grout line can be finished in a tone that matches both parts correctly. Flush mount sinks are not sold in stores and must be ordered in advance.
Farmhouse Sink /Apron Sink
The farmhouse sink, commonly known as the apron sink, has a more pronounced rounded edge that extends over the countertop’s edge. The exposed front wall or apron characterizes farmhouse sinks. Larger items, such as pots and pans, are easier to clean in this type of sink.
These sinks are generally large and made of ceramic, although they can also be stainless steel or copper. They are usually tucked below the edge of the countertop and put on top of a cabinet so you can sweep kitchen waste right into the sink.
These sinks are visible from the front because they resemble aprons hanging over the counter. There will be a small grout line that needs to be cleaned occasionally.
It should be noted that an apron sink does not require a farmhouse kitchen. An apron sink can be incorporated into any type of kitchen, independent of the design style. When used correctly, the farmhouse sink produces a rustic appearance.
Integrated Sink
Integrated sinks are made from the same material as the countertop, giving them a more seamless look than under-mount or flush mount sinks. The sink and countertop are actually one piece that’s been fused together at the factory.
Because of its clean and high-end appearance, an integrated kitchen sink is excellent for a modern kitchen. Ceramic or natural stone are the most common materials for these sinks. They can be costly if made of stone and maybe less expensive if the sink and countertop are made of ceramic.
Corner Sink
A corner sink is any type of sink positioned in one of the corners of your countertop. Corner sinks are ideal for small spaces and are also a good choice for kitchens with a unique layout that necessitates a particular style.
Corner sinks, like bar sinks, are ideal for U- or L-shaped kitchen counters to save space. These sinks allow you to convert an unused corner of your kitchen into a useful and busy space.
It can help you keep your kitchen clutter-free and mess-free. This sink looks fabulous and completes the aesthetic of your kitchen.
Based On No Of Bowl
Single – Bowl
There is only one bowl and drain in this type. When there is less space available and not many people in the house, this is a great option. In Indian kitchens, this is the most prevalent type of kitchen sink.
It is easy to clean because it has no corners or edges. A single bowl kitchen sink gives your kitchen a sleek appearance. However, they are less versatile and may consume more water and detergent.
Double – Bowl
These rectangular kitchen sinks, also known as double bowl sinks or double basin sinks, have two side-by-side bowls or basins. The bowls can be the same or different sizes, separated by a partition.
These sinks have their own drainage and are sold separately. When you have a lot of dishes to wash and rinse, this is a great option.
Alternatively, one could be set aside for food preparation and the other for dishwashing. The possibilities are limitless. It gives you more space and versatility as there are two bowls in a double bowl kitchen sink.
Double bowl sinks are available in various styles and configurations, including two equal-sized bowls of the same depth, two equal-sized basins of varying depths, unequal-sized bowls, etc. This is also a great option when two cooks are in the kitchen.
Triple Bowl Sink
A small third bowl is included in triple bowl sinks as a prep sink. Three or more bowls are pretty uncommon. The majority of kitchen sinks only have two bowls.
The flexibility and space in the kitchen provided by a triple bowl kitchen sink allow two or even three people to work around the sink.
Drainboard Sink
An apron is frequently added to one or both sides of this type of sink. The apron on a drainboard sink overlaps part of the counter and is meant for water drainage. Drainboard sinks are ideal for draining dishes.
This type is most practical for individuals who frequently wash their dishes by hand; therefore, it is most prevalent in Indian kitchens.
Based On Materials
Stainless Steel
It is the most common choice for a sink material that is more expensive than porcelain and less costly than solid surface or granite sinks. They are available with top mount and under mount options.
This sink is easy to install, easy to clean, inexpensive, and durable, and it blends well with most countertop surfaces. Stainless sinks are ideal for almost all kitchens.
The disadvantages of this material include its tendency to make a lot of noise when washing dishes, its lack of uniqueness compared to other materials, and its susceptibility to scratches and dents.
Copper
Copper is another good option, although it is more expensive. It is highly durable, does not rust or tarnish, and requires very little maintenance.
The antimicrobial properties of copper kill germs and viruses. This sink looks fantastic in an industrial kitchen as well as many other styles of kitchens.
Cast Iron
Cast iron kitchen sinks are made of cast iron with porcelain enamel layers applied to the surface. They are easy to clean, with a smooth, glossy finish that hides water spots and streaks.
Durability, scratch and heat resistance, and non-porousness are just a few of the advantages of cast iron sinks. It is more costly than many other sink material options, and it is more difficult to install because of its weight.
Granite
Granite kitchen sinks are easy to clean and can withstand high temperatures. They are long-lasting, stain and scratch-resistant. Granite sinks are available in single or double bowls and do not lose their luster quickly.
Granite sinks are pretty heavy and may need to reinforce your existing cabinet and countertop to hold the sink, which would undoubtedly increase the installation cost.
Fireclay
Fireclay is a substance made by mixing clay and glaze at extremely high temperatures. Some advantages are durability, non-porous surface, scratch and acid resistance, and chip resistance. Cons include a high price tag, a lack of color variation, and staining susceptibility.
These sinks are also quite large. Professional installation with additional support is recommended, just as with cast-iron sinks. They are more expensive than other varieties of kitchen sinks.
Quartz
A quartz sink is often designed to be the centerpiece of your kitchen. Quartz is a hard natural stone material that is colorless and translucent, similar to a crystal.
Quartz sinks are manufactured by combining mineral quartz / colored quartz with acrylic to create a sturdy and elegant structure design.
Quartz is a material that can be used as an alternative to granite for kitchen sinks. Quartz sinks are stain-resistant, scratch-resistant, and hygienic. Its only drawback is that it has low heat resistance.
Porcelain
Porcelain, a mixture of clay, glass, and metal, is an age-old material that has been used for a variety of kitchen fixtures. Porcelain is also less common in kitchen sinks than other materials due to its fragility.
It has many drawbacks, like it not only discolors significantly over time, but it can also chip very readily. However, it can be one of the most beautiful sinks, and it comes in various colors.
Bamboo
Bamboo is a less common material that can be used to make kitchen sinks. While wood usually is not used in kitchen sinks (due to its porous nature and susceptibility to damage), bamboo has recently emerged as a popular option.
These wooden sinks are ideal for a green, sustainable kitchen design. Bamboo is highly flexible and can resist tremendous weight.
The biggest drawback of a bamboo sink is that it requires more maintenance. For further protection and to keep its appearance consistent, a water-resistant topcoat finish should be applied to its body.
Acrylic
This material, made of polycarbonate polymers, is one of the most attractive options. The material’s molding process not only allows for a wide range of shapes and colors, but the end product is also highly repairable.
A lightweight acrylic sink is easier to install or repair than enamel, steel, or composite material. Scratches and stains can be removed with a soft cloth.
Because it is very soft compared to other sink materials, it is also one of the most excellent sink materials for sound absorption. However, it is not as long-lasting as most materials.
It also does not hold up well to petroleum-based solutions such as paint. Steel wool and other abrasive objects may scratch the surface of the sink.
Composite
Composite kitchen sinks are made up of various materials, most commonly a mixture of crushed quartz, stone dust, and acrylic resins that have been engineered. Composite sinks are also gaining popularity day by day.
The surface of some composite kitchen sinks is smooth, while others have a slightly rougher feel. These sinks are resistant to stains, scratches, and chips.
Conclusion
Selecting a suitable kitchen sink may create a big difference in how your kitchen looks. Consider the type of installation, size, material, and shape of your kitchen sink when deciding. Although all kitchen sinks are made equal, not all of them are suitable for you.
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