Based on the order of importance; the kitchen sink is arguably one of the most important plumbing fixtures needed in a kitchen. The activities carried out there are numerous, and they cannot be overemphasized. Choosing a high-quality and outstanding kitchen sink will help to improve the overall aesthetics and functionality of your kitchen. To choose the best material for kitchen sink, you need to do some research and weigh some factors.
To help ease the stress of selecting the best kitchen sink, we have prepared this guide. In this detailed guide about “How to Choose from 10 of the Best Materials for Kitchen Sinks,” we will discuss the characteristics and applications of ten different types of kitchen sink materials (Learn: Kitchen Sink Sizes in Inches-How to Choose the Right Sizes).
Continue reading as we take you on a journey to learn how to select the best materials for your kitchen sink!
Importance of Choosing the Right Material for a Kitchen Sink
Several kitchen sink materials flood the market, but the popular ones include stainless steel, natural stone, solid surface, cast iron, fire clay, and ceramic. Each kitchen sink material comes with its unique advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, before you zoom off on your journey of selecting the right material for a kitchen sink, ensure you consider the pros and cons of each material. Take a look at five reasons why choosing the best kitchen sink material is of utmost importance;
Determine the Durability and Lifespan
Different types of kitchen materials are available; determining the durable ones can be very tedious. How do you solve this issue? Having a good understanding that not all kitchen sinks are durable is the first step. Secondly, a comprehensive guide like this is very helpful. The most durable kitchen sink material is cast iron followed by stainless steel.
In addition, choosing a durable material for your kitchen sink makes it last longer compared to when you go for an aesthetic material without durability. You need to have a balance between aesthetics and durability when choosing the right material for your kitchen sink.
Affect the Functionality of the Sink
The kitchen sink material is an important factor that should be considered before you buy a kitchen sink – It can impact the overall functionality of your kitchen, in terms of easy cleaning and resistance to scratches and stains.
For example, porcelain material provides a beautiful look but is easily stained and scratched, while granite combines both aesthetics and durability.
A kitchen provides a space for washing fruits, vegetables, and dishes while allowing for efficient cleaning. It also helps in food preparation by providing a convenient location for chopping, peeling, and rinsing tasks. Also, you can dispose of waste through the drain. All these functions are affected by factors such as shape, size, depth, and additional features like drying racks on the kitchen sink.
Impact the Maintenance Requirements
Maintenance Requirements – This is one factor a lot of people do not consider until after purchasing a product. It is very important to think about maintenance when choosing the best kitchen sink material. Maintenance requirements differ depending on the type of material you choose. While some materials are easier to clean while others require more effort (Learn: How to Clean Corian Sink Without Effort) to clean them.
If you are looking for kitchen sink material that is easier to maintain, consider materials like solid surfaces, stainless steel, ceramic, fireclay, and porcelain. Soap and water are all that is needed to maintain these materials and they do not need too much scrubbing.
Determine the Overall Aesthetics
How will the type of kitchen sink material you want to choose the overall aesthetics of your kitchen? Aside from the functionality and ergonomics, that is the next question you need to ask yourself. This will guide you to choose the right kitchen sink material that fits into your kitchen design concept.
It is necessary to choose a kitchen sink material, color, and style that match the rest of the kitchen design. The selected kitchen sink must align with the textures and colors of other materials in the kitchen. That way you will easily avoid a kitchen with a scattered design.
Affect Health and Safety
Anything that has to do with food preparation must be carefully selected. The kitchen sink is where most of the cooking activities in the kitchen are carried out. Therefore, choosing the best sink material is a decision you should not joke with.
Solid surface materials like engineered stones and acrylic have antibacterial properties because they are non-porous and have smooth surfaces without tiny pores that can accommodate bacteria. This makes them highly resistant to bacteria and stains, making cleaning and maintenance a lot easier for you. Despite this property, regular cleaning and sanitation are still needed to maintain the hygiene of the kitchen environment.
Best Kitchen Sink Material for Customization: Solid Surface
Are you looking for the best kitchen material for customization? The solid surface kitchen sink should be considered because of the various benefits it offers. This type of kitchen sink can be easily formed into several designs, shapes, colors, and sizes.
Characteristics of Solid Surface Sinks
Solid surface sink – It is a durable and affordable sink material made from fiberglass and resins. This sink material can be formed into colors and designs that mimic expensive natural stones.
Solid surface material stands out from other kitchen sink materials because there is room for full customization options. Clients can liaise with manufacturers to create a customization option that suits their exact needs and requirements.
Applications of Solid Surface Sinks
Solid surface sinks are used in various settings due to their durability and versatility. They are usually sleek and seamless and are mostly used in residential kitchens. Their nonporous characteristics make them resistant to stains, bacteria growth, and scratches making them suitable for food preparation areas like kitchens that value hygiene.
They are preferred in commercial settings such as hospitals, restaurants, laboratories, and many more due to their ease of cleaning and resistance to chemicals. In addition, they have low maintenance requirements and seamlessly integrate with existing countertops to give a cohesive workspace for users.
Best Sink Material for Modern Appearance: Stainless Steel
Out of the numerous kitchen sink materials, stainless steel is arguably one of the best sink materials for a modern appearance. The stainless steel kitchen sink is well-known for its outstanding features – durability, scratch resistance, and water resistance.
Characteristics of Stainless Steel Sinks
When it comes to durability, stainless steel is one of the best materials that will not scratch, stain, chip, or hold odor easily. Aside from durability, stainless steel sinks are very easy to clean, and they have a modern appearance. Another benefit of stainless steel sinks is that they are heat resistant; they will not break when exposed to high temperatures.
Applications of Stainless Steel Sinks
For a high-traffic kitchen where a lot of cooking activities take place, it is advisable to go for stainless steel sink. Stainless steel sinks should be highly considered in kitchens where health and safety are fundamental requisites. For example in residential, and commercial kitchens and restaurants, their durability and stain resistance makes them preferred in areas where hygiene is considered of utmost importance.
Kitchen Sink Material for Classic Design: Cast Iron
One of the sink materials that can be used for classic design is cast iron. Many people believe that cast iron is only available in white color, but that is not true. Cast iron can be formed into different colors and designs.
Characteristics of Cast Iron Sinks
If your main goal is to get a very durable kitchen sink that can last for a long period, your focus should be channeled toward cast-iron sinks. Compared to stainless steel, cast iron is more durable because they have a base of iron and a porcelain enamel coating.
Applications of Cast Iron Sinks
Cast iron kitchen sinks are applicable in kitchens where hot liquids and materials are used frequently. For instance, you can place a hot pot in the cast iron sinks and it won’t affect the material. Also, cast iron sinks are very good for public kitchens because they can withstand a lot of wear and tear without cracking.
Best Type of Kitchen Sink for Great Durability: Granite
The fourth kitchen sink material on our list is Granite. Granite is a durable and hard natural stone; therefore, you can rest assured that it does not scratch easily. Learn more about this kitchen sink material granite below;
Characteristics of Granite Sinks
Granite kitchen sinks offer great durability. Durability, stain resistance, scratch resistance, and heat resistance; are the major characteristics of granite sinks. This material is very heavy; therefore, countertops and cabinets should be reinforced properly before you install them. Another beautiful thing about granite sinks is that they are very easy to maintain.
Applications of Granite Sinks
Granite sinks –suitable for very busy kitchens. Granite sinks will work perfectly in heavy-duty kitchens because they offer great durability. Also, granite sinks can handle a lot of tears and wear without breaking or chipping.
Best Material for Kitchen Sinks that are Durable: Quartz
Quartz is highly hygienic because it is made from nonporous materials; Quartz kitchen sinks will not gather germs and other contaminants easily. Check the characteristics and applications of quartz explained below;
Characteristics of Quartz Sinks
Quartz sinks are highly durable sinks made from natural stone. Looking at how affordable it is, you may want to conclude that it is not durable. No, quartz is affordable and durable, making it one of the best choices for people on a tight budget.
Alt Text: Quartz Kitchen Sink
Applications of Quartz Sinks
Quartz sinks are made from a tougher material; therefore, they can be used for various applications. Due to the great durability of quartz sinks, they can be used for both residential and commercial applications. Furthermore, quartz sinks are ideal for kitchens where cooks dump hot pots or pour hot liquids in sinks frequently.
Best Sink Material with High Heat Tolerance: Fireclay
Fireclay is one the best types of kitchen sink materials that share almost the same durability as stainless steel. You should consider investing in fireclay kitchen sinks; they possess high heat tolerance and a longer lifespan.
Characteristics of Fireclay Sinks
Fireclay sinks are made from a thorough combination of two different materials – clay and glaze – exposed to a very high temperature. It is a heavy material; therefore, before you install it, you may need to reinforce cabinets and countertops. In addition, the fireclay sink is resistant to stains, dents, heat, and scratches.
Applications of Fireclay Sinks
Fireclay sinks are the perfect choice for suppliers or contractors who are looking for a durable and easy-to-clean sink. Fireclay sinks will still maintain their attractiveness for a long time even if they are used for industrial purposes.
Kitchen Sink Material that Resists Corrosion: Copper
Copper is another outstanding kitchen sink material with a lot of benefits. While copper kitchen sinks are aesthetically pleasing; they are very expensive. This is why it is not a recommended option for people on a tight budget.
Characteristics of Copper Sinks
Copper sinks are types of sink material that are available in various attractive finishes. Are you looking for kitchen sink material with high corrosion resistance? Then you should go for copper. Unlike other kitchen sinks, copper sinks require more maintenance to maintain their beauty.
Applications of Copper Sinks
Copper sinks are ideal for kitchens where health and safety are taken seriously. For instance, it can be used in food companies where certain food safety regulations need to be met. A copper sink is one of the few kitchen sinks that have antimicrobial properties.
Best Sink Material for Scratch Resistance: Marble
Marble finds its way into our top list because it provides high resistance to scratches and stains. Also, it doesn’t require a lot of maintenance. Want to know more about marble sinks? Check out the characteristic and applications of marble sinks explained below;
Characteristics of Marble Sinks
Marble sinks are another durable sink material that can withstand heat and water. Another advantage of marble sinks is that it doesn’t scratch easily. Marble sinks are very expensive; marble is considered a precious stone. Marble sinks are elegant, and they do not need a lot of maintenance.
Applications of Marble Sinks
Marble sinks can be used in heavy-duty kitchens because they are very strong. Reinforcement of the base might be necessary before installing marble sinks, which is a result of their heavy weight. Due to the great durability of marble sinks, they can be used for both indoor and outdoor applications.
Best Type of Kitchen Sink with Light Weight: Acrylic
Since acrylic kitchen sinks are not heavy, you do not need to reinforce your cabinet and countertops before installing them. Likewise, less effort is required when installing them. Below are the characteristics and basic applications of acrylic sinks;
Characteristics of Acrylic Sinks
Acrylic is one of the cheapest and most popular sink material types. Acrylic sinks are made from a combination of the following materials: plastic, fiberglass, and resin. They are formed into different sizes, shapes, and colors. This makes it easy to find a finish that aligns with your kitchen design. Lastly, be ready for more maintenance work to ensure that it lasts for a long time.
Applications of Acrylic Sinks
Acrylic sinks are mostly used in laboratories, hospitals, and other places with special needs. They are not suitable for heavy-duty kitchens because they are susceptible to dings and scratches from sharp objects.
One of the Chemicals-Resistant Sink Material Types: Ceramic
The final sink material on our list of the best ten sink material types – Ceramic. Ceramic sinks are durable sinks that are highly resistant to the following; stains, scratches, and chemicals. Take a look at some of its characteristics below;
Characteristics of Ceramic Sinks
Ceramic sinks, also known as farmhouse or country sinks, are resistant to a lot of household chemicals. This sink material is chip-proof due to the layered clay composition and heavy-duty glazing. They are gradually becoming popular around the world due to their good appearance which helps to improve the overall kitchen aesthetics.
Applications of Ceramic Sinks
Ceramics sinks are ideal for busy kitchens because they can withstand wear and tear. Ceramic sinks are also applicable for kitchens or areas where different chemicals are used frequently. Lastly, ceramics can be used for both outdoor and indoor applications.
Factors to Consider When Choosing from Sink Material Types
Choosing the best sink material that suits your basic needs and preferences might require some effort. You will need to invest some of your time into researching and considering some important factors in order to choose the best type of kitchen sink.
Some factors that should be considered when choosing a sink material are budget, eco-friendliness, sound insulation properties, and compatibility with countertops. They are discussed further below;
Budget
The first thing you need to do before making any purchase is to determine your budget. When you determine your budget, you won’t have to spend more time carrying out market research.
For instance, if you see a material that you like, you compare it with your budget. The stainless steel sink material is the best choice for people with a big budget because of its heat resistance, exceptional durability, sleek appearance, minimal maintenance, and long life span.
Alternatively, for those with a low budget, the acrylic sink is the most cost-effective solution because it is affordable and does not compromise on quality with a variety of styles and colors to choose from. It is easy to maintain and also durable when it comes to making a choice of the right sink material for your kitchen.
Compatibility with Countertops
Since you do not want a kitchen with scattered designs, you need to choose a kitchen sink that aligns with the overall design of your kitchen. Most importantly, the type of kitchen sink you need to choose must be compatible with the countertops.
For instance, you need to consider the color, style, and materials of your countertops and ask yourself questions like; ‘Does this sink material align with my countertop properties? Do I need to adjust my countertop or cabinet if choose this kitchen sink?’ Those questions will help you know if they are compatible or not. KKR can customize the style and color of your solid surface sink. Contact us today!
Sound Insulation Properties
This is one of the factors that a lot of people do not consider before choosing a kitchen sink. After looking into important factors like budget, aesthetics, and compatibility, you also need to consider factors like sound insulation properties. This is very important because some materials have sound insulation properties, while some do not.
For example, granite and quartz kitchen sinks help to dampen the sound of objects dropped into them because they have sound insulation properties. If you are the kind of person that does not like noise, you should consider granite or marble kitchen sinks.
Eco-Friendliness
Finally, in order to choose the best material for the kitchen sink, you need to also consider eco-friendliness. Some kitchen sinks are made from materials that are not eco-friendly. While some kitchen sinks undergo a manufacturing process that is very harmful to human health, and the environment.
One popular durable kitchen sink material that is also environmentally friendly is a solid surface kitchen sink. This kitchen sink is formed by mixing different eco-friendly materials which include fiberglass, resins, and plastics. Other eco-friendly kitchen sinks that you can choose from are; stainless steel, copper, acrylic, etc.
Get the Most Durable Kitchen Sink Produced by KKR
After doing a thorough research in order to choose the best material for a kitchen sink, you must also remember to buy from a trusted kitchen sink company. KKR offers excellent quality solid surface kitchen sinks with 10 years warranty.
Stable Quality of Solid Surface Products
KKR is a reliable and trustworthy solid surface countertop company that produces high-quality solid surface products. The following solid surface products listed below are manufactured by KKR: solid surface kitchen countertops, solid surface wash basin and sink, solid surface backsplash, (Learn: Why Choose Solid Surface Backsplash for Your Kitchen) and solid surface window sill.
One-Stop Shopping Services
Why should I buy from KKR? At KKR, we provide all the solid surface products needed to improve your kitchen aesthetics. Our one-stop shopping services will greatly help to make shopping easier. Moreover, it will even help suppliers and contractors to get solid surface products that match together.
Comprehensive Customization Options
We offer comprehensive customization options that allow you to create products that match your business needs and preference. Just send your ideas and concepts; our team of experts will help you turn them into reality.
Conclusion
In summary, choosing the best material for a kitchen sink depends on several factors– eco-friendliness, budget, sound insulation properties, aesthetic design, maintenance, and durability. With the tips provided in this guide, you shouldn’t have any issues when choosing the right kitchen sink material that suits your business needs.
KKR is a top solid surface company in China with more than 23 years of experience. At KKR, we manufacture different solid surface products such as solid surface kitchen countertops, solid surface wash basins and sinks, solid surface backsplash, and solid surface window sill. Get in touch with us today to get a quote.
