How to Compare Kitchen Sinks

Find the sink that's right for you.

The sink chosen for a kitchen should match its decor and work well with your lifestyle. Consider the wide range of styles, materials and price points when comparing your options in kitchen sinks.

Materials

Materials for kitchen sinks include stainless steel, granite, solid surface, porcelain, soapstone, enameled iron and metals such as nickel, copper or brass, each with its own qualities. Easy-care stainless steel sinks give modern kitchens a professional look. Enameled iron sinks have long-lasting durability. Solid surface or granite provides durability and a cohesive look when paired with a countertop of the same material. Soapstone is a natural, organic material with an unusual look and feel. Copper, brass and nickel sinks are specialty choices that can be pricey.

Installation

Sink installation options include drop-in, undermount, flush mount, apron sinks and trough. Drop-ins have a lip that is larger than the hole in which it will fit. Undermounts are usually made from granite or solid surface material installed slightly below a matching countertop. Flush mounts sit level with the countertop. Apron sinks, often called farm sinks, provide a country kitchen feel. Troughs are long rectangular sinks often used in restaurant kitchens.

Considerations

Before heading to the home improvement store, consider your lifestyle. If you have a large family or do a lot of entertaining, one material or style may work better than another. Some kitchen sink materials require special care. Others may provide a better match for the design of your kitchen. Your dealer should be able to guide you to the best choice according to your budget and preferences.

References

• Kitchen Cabinets Design: Kitchen Sinks: Stainless Steel, Porcelain, Copper, Enamel
• Consumer Reports: Kitchen Sinks and Faucet Types

Resources

• Demesne: Everything About the Kitchen Sink