Thinking about an upgrade in your kitchen? A sparkling new sink can add a polished look, as well as make your life easier. Upgrading to a deeper sink helps quite a bit when cleaning large pots or pans. Here are some good tips to consider when choosing a new stainless steel kitchen sink.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is heat resistant, stain resistant and easy to clean. Can’t seem to get it sparkling due to hard water? Try some Bar Keeper’s Friend.
Top-Mount, Under-Mount or Dual-Mount
Be sure you take note of what mount style you require for your kitchen. Top-Mount sinks (bottom photo) are easy to install and simply drop into the opening of the counter top. They have a lip edge covering the counter top. Typically, these are used with laminate counter tops. Under-Mount (top photo) attach below the counter top. It is a bit easier for cleaning; crumbs can be swept right into the sink. These are typically used for stone counter tops. Dual-Mount sinks can be used either way for your convenience.
Stainless Steel Gauge
Stainless steel thickness is measured by the gauge. Thin steel has a higher gauge and thicker steel has a lower gauge. Less expensive sinks start at 22. As sink prices goes up, you will see the gauge around 18 or even 16. With a thicker sink (lower gauge), it will be more resistant to dents, the sink will be quieter when in use and it will hold up much better overtime.
Additional Options
After determining the basics, there are plenty more options to choose from. Beginning with the photo above, this kitchen has a single basin, apron-front style with a towel bar.
Double sink basins are not always the exact same size. In the Moen sink above, two different basin depths are available. This can be helpful when cleaning large items.
This Kohler Prologue sink has a work surface on the side. The sink includes a custom fit cutting board and colander. Many manufacturers have unique, custom sinks like this one.
For the serious cook or chef, this long Kohler Crevasse sink is perfect for chopping food. The water automatically sweeps the chopped scraps down to the garbage disposal.
Or if you don’t care about sinks, here’s the sink for you! It’s the Crystalline by Blanco. Hide it when you’re done! Excellent for small spaces.
Click on the above photos for more details about the products or designs.
Hepburn Interiors, LLC 