Kitchen Sinks
Quick Links: Styles Material Choosing a Sink Kitchen Links
Styles
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Drop in sinks are dropped into a counter top that is cut to the size of the sink and either attached with clips or silicone. |
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Under-mount sinks are attached underneath the countertop that is cut out to match the sink. The counter top edges are finished around the top of the sink. They are attached with silicone or a frame or both. |
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Apron Front sinks are mounted on special made cabinetry. They may be dropped in or under-mounted and are used in a traditional or modern type kitchen. |
Material
Cast Iron is a heavy material that has an enamel coating with a glossy glaze. It has a timeless look and feel. Stainless Steel s made of heavy stainless steel with a brushed or polished surface.
Silgranite Surface is a hard composite that is solid with consistent color and durability year after year. They contain 80% to 90% natural granite and feature the touch and feel of natural stone. It is a non-porous surface that is resistant to stain, heat and scratching.
Stainless Steel is a durable and timeless material. It looks sleek and professional and it wears well too. It’s hygienic and easy to maintain. More durable than porcelain or cast iron, stainless steel is highly resistant to heat, stains and rust. It is also forgiving if dishes or 
glassware are dropped in the sink. The chrome and nickel content in a sink is an indicator of quality. Chrome gives stainless its luster and durability, while nickel adds hardness and strength. Stainless Steel is a good choice for the person that does not want a lot of maintenance to their sink. Scratches are inevitable but can blend in with the brushed look of stainless as it ages.
Acrylic/Solid Surface is a material that has the same color throughout the product. A renewable surface that will not wear away and is heat resistant up to 450 degrees. Lighter colors can stain if using a lot of food with color such as spaghetti sauce.
Choosing a Sink
Cast Iron Sinks have been around for a long time. They have an ageless quality about them. Color and style is a big reason to choose this sink. Harsh cleaners may not be used but if maintained on a regular basis the look of this sink will last a long time. Scratches can happen as well as chipping if something really heavy is dropped on them. If you take care of this sink you will be very happy with these sinks for many, many years.
Stainless Steel Sinks are available in different gauges. The smaller number gauge sink the stronger the sink. A good quality is either 20 or 18 gauge with 18 being the most popular. The lower the number the more nickel the sink has in the stainless steel. Sinks that have rounded bottoms are usually lower in cost. Commercial type sinks have very straight lines that give a larger well for washing dishes. Sinks come in a variety of different depths. Standard depth is either 7 or 8” with more and more residences wanting a deeper sink at 9 or 10”.
Siligranite Sinks are chosen by color that matches your countertop. A lighter color shows heavier dirt and a darker color shows the lighter dirt. Each one is stain resistant and scratch resistant. Cleaning information is available on the websites of any sink company. 
Secondary Sinks are often used in islands and are smaller single bowl sinks. There are many sizes and shapes to choose from.
Undermount Sinks are cut into the top and it is difficult to replace a sink if you need to in the future. It is important to choose a quality sink that will last as long as your new countertop. They may be installed with a reveal(showing an edge on the top of the sink) or without a reveal giving a seamless look.