Kitchen Inspiration Tips & Solutions
Types of Kitchen Sinks
There is a wide range of options to consider when deicing on a new kitchen sink. Here are some of the most common choices along with the pros and cons of each type.
Style
Drop in
Undermount
Single Bowl
Multiple Bowls
Farmhouse
Workstation
Integrated
material
Stainless Steel
Granite Composite
Copper
Cast Iron
Fireclay
Solid Surface
brands
Kohler
Ruvati
Blanco
Rohl
Swanstone
Elkay
Kraus
Undermount sinks
Types of Rim Options
Undermount sinks are installed below the surface of the countertop, providing a clean and modern look. There are 3 types of undermount rim options:
- NEGATIVE REVEAL – the countertop sits over the sink by about a half inch. Because this option makes the countertop more prone to chips, it is best not to use granite or natural stone.
- FLUSH MOUNT – also called Zero Reveal, the countertop and the lip of the sink line up flush with each other. This is the most popular type of undermount styles.
- POSITIVE REVEAL – This is the least popular rim type as it is more susceptible to mold growth and build up.
Drop in sinks
Pros & Cons
Drop-in sinks, also called “Self-Rimming” or “Top Mount,” are easy to install. The rim of the sink sits over the countertop and is placed in a pre-cut hole in the countertop.
- Easy to install
- Cost-Effective
- Debris can develop around the lip over time as caulk wears off
This Ruvati brushed stainless steel sink has a built-in ledge that accommodates a workstation of accessories, including a colander, drying rack and cutting board. To learn more, click here.
Farmhouse style
Also known as Apron Sink
Farmhouse style sinks harken back to a day when there was no running water and larger basins were needed to hold water hand collected from nearby water sources. Today, you will find a diverse variety of modern styles and materials. Here are a few of the benefits:
- Capacity: deeper and wider basin
- Available in many common materials
- More flexibility in choosing faucet
- Charming, nostalgic appearance
- Most apron sinks are a single basin, but can also be found as double basins.
Find this Rockwell sink here.
Stainless Steel
- Durable
- Stain and tarnish proof
- Easy to Clean
- Heat resistant
- Affordable
- Wide variety of styles
- Mostly available in one color
- Louder
- Can dent and scratch
- Shows water spots
Granite Composite
- Strong & Durable
- Easy to Clean
- Heat resistant
- Sound absorbing effect
- Wide variety of styles
- Hygienic (nonporous)
- Heavy - needs more support
- not a "budget choice"
- Susceptible to chips and cracks
- Requires maintenance
- Lighter colors can stain
Fire Clay
- Rustic, Handcrafted quality
- Manageable to maintain
- Naturally resistant to heat
- More durable than Cast Iron
- Limited range of colors/styles
- Expensive
- Susceptible to cracking
- Difficult installation
- Heavy - needs more support
- Can pick up water stains if not wiped dry
Solid Surface
- Inexpensive
- Easy to clean
- Scratches can be sanded out
- Nonporous (prevents bacteria)
- Variety of sizes and shapes
- Requires regular maintenance
- Not heat resistant
- Best for light to medium use
Cast Iron
- Strongest sink material - built for a lifetime
- Durable
- Appealing porcelain finish
- Available in variety of colors/styles
- Hides water spots
- Heavy - needs supports
- Vulnerable to stains and scuffs
- Must be careful with the types of cleaners used
Copper
- Warm, elegant appearance
- Easy to maintain
- Durable
- Wide variety of styles available
- Value
- Antimicrobial qualities
- Expensive
- Patina change overtime
- Professional install recommended
- Thinner gauged copper prone to warping denting
Additional Kitchen Ideas
Storage solutions
Refrigerated Drawers
Maximize your cabinet storage and organize your refrigeration needs with convenient, customizable drawers.
