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When redecorating your kitchen, don't forget to replace the sink. A new sink
can beautifully accent the kitchen and give it a whole new look. When choosing
a kitchen sink, there are many different decisions that need to be made. Even
the simplest of sinks are available in different types, styles and colors. So
if you’re in the market for a new kitchen sink, use this short article to
ensure that you choose a sink with which you’ll live happily ever after.
Make sure it fits!
Your sink choice is restricted by the size of your cabinet and counter top. All
kitchen sinks require a minimum cabinet size. You can find out the size of your
cabinet by measuring under the existing sink or where the new sink will go. Be
sure to measure from left to right and from outside edge to outside edge. See
diagram A.The measurement you obtain is the cabinet size. You should allow at
least 2-3 inches on both sides for mounting hardware. Keep in mind that this will
reduce the size of the sink that you can use. (Example: a 36" cabinet
measurement would accommodate a 30" - 32" sink).
Most kitchen cabinets are standard 24" measurement front to back. The width (front
to back measurement) of the sink that can be used is determined by this
measurement and whether or not the counter top has a back splash. See diagrams B
and C. If the counter top has no back splash and the cabinet is of standard size,
a sink that measures up to 22" width (front to back) will fit. See Diagram B. If
the counter top has a back splash, measure the thickness of the backsplash and
deduct it from the cabinet width. See Diagram C. This will allow maximum sink size
and allow spacing for sink installation.
It is likely, but not certain, that sinks with front to back width of up to
20-1/2" will fit.
Material
Kitchen sinks are manufactured using many different materials. Just to name a few, stainless steel, enameled cast iron, porcelain on steel, corian, quartz composite, granite, and vitreous china can all be found in today’s modern kitchens. Despite this wide variety of options, stainless steel has emerged to become the most popular choice for new installations. Moreover, cast iron remains the material of choice for consumers seeking a colored finished. Below are descriptions of various materials:
Stainless Steel: As noted, stainless steel has emerged to become the most popular choice of materials for new sink installations. This is due to its low cost, lightweight, and almost unbreakable construction. It is important to note that various qualities of stainless steel exist. For example, light-gauge stainless steel that is higher in number (20-gauge, etc) is more susceptible to denting and scratching. Furthermore, stainless steel is also available in a mirrored finish. This gives it a shinier appearance, but also increases the likelihood that visible scratches will occur. Brushed-stainless (also called “satin”) finishes are the newest trend because scratches are less visible. Also popular are satin bowls with mirrored rims.
Enameled Cast Iron: Enameled cast iron is the optimal choice if you desire a fashionable, colored sink. The material itself is comprised of a solid cast iron base that is layered with a deep enamel surface. This makes for an extremely heavy construction that is resistant to almost any type of structural damage. Consequently, enameled cast iron is more difficult to install and tends to cost more than porcelain or stainless steel. Nevertheless, it will save you money in the long run because it should last forever.
Porcelain on Steel: This material is made by combining an embossed steel casing with a layer of a specially, glazed clay. This creates a smooth and appealing surface that will remain strong if the sink is used normally. It is relatively lightweight, and thus, cheaper than many other materials. However, if a large object is dropped into the sink, and subsequently causes a big impact, the sink may damage. Furthermore, the sink tends to produce a good amount of operating noise.
Corian: Natural minerals and acrylic resin are processed together in order to fabricate this material. It is similar in construction to granite, but is cheaper and able to be fixed in the event that it breaks. It’s durable and easy to clean. However, it is susceptible to scratching by corrosive fuel based products and metal objects, if they are left on the surface.
Quartz Composite: This material is very similar in composition to corian, except that it has a smoother surface. A quartz sink is resistant to the everyday wears of a normal kitchen operation, including hot pans. Furthermore, the surface insulates dishwater and keeps it warm for longer periods of time, making it easier for you to wash your dishes. Quartz is available in almost any color and will not fade because the color runs throughout the entire material. The main reason why people don’t like quartz is because it does not have a shiny finish.
Granite: Extremely high price tags are attached to these types of sinks, which are the most scratch resilient sinks that can be purchased today. This durability can be attributed to the compactness of rock particles that coat the surface. As is the case with quartz composite, this material is not available in a shiny finish.
Vitreous China: A ceramic-based material, vitreous china is best recognized for its smooth and glossy finish. The material is very durable and is available in almost any color, including hand-painted and sculptured designs. Unfortunately, boiling water or heavy objects that fall into the sink can damage the surface.
Installation Type
The installation of the sink can make a substantial difference in the overall look
and functionality of it. Below are descriptions of the most popular installation
types available today.
Self-rimming, drop-in – These sinks have traditionally been the most common in the kitchen. They are mounted from above the counter and have a built-in visible rim on which the faucet sits. These sinks work well with any countertop material but have a raised lip that may, depending on the sink material you choose, interfere with cleaning.
Undermount, recessed – These sinks are the most popular for their glamorous appeal and superior functionality. They are installed from underneath the counter and do not have a rim, so food and debris can be wiped directly into the sink. Any solid surface countertop of manmade material, natural stone or concrete will allow for an under-mounted sink installation.
Tile-in, tile-edge – These sinks have a “tile-in” edge. They are designed to mount flush with a tiled surface and offer a built-in, grouted sink edge.
Apron or farmhouse sinks – These sinks are becoming increasingly popular as many homeowners are going for a traditional farmhouse look in their kitchen. They have exposed decorative face panels and must be planned for early in your kitchen design because they have special cabinet requirements. See your cabinet fabricator before purchasing an apron or farmhouse sink.
Bowls
Kitchen sinks are available in one bowl, two bowl, or three bowl models. The bowls
can be deep or shallow, and have straight or sloped sidewalls. When deciding on
the number and type of bowls you will need, think of how you are planning to use
your sink. Single bowl sinks are basic, but can be purchased with a depth of up to
10” or 12”. If you plan on using your sink primarily for rinsing dishes to prepare
them for the dishwasher, then a single-bowl sink will probably meet your needs.
Two and three bowl sinks allow for multi-tasking. You can rinse or store dishes in
the large bowl, and use the small bowl for a garbage disposal or to rinse vegetables.
Bowls are available in different depths. Extra-deep bowls are great for soaking
larger pots and roasters, but reduce the amount of space under your counter and
may be troublesome for your back on a daily basis. Shallower bowls are great for
rinsing vegetables or supporting garbage disposals. Bowl depths range from 5” to
12”.
The placement of the drain in bowls varies. The most common is a center-drain.
Some bowls are available with a rear-positioned drain. offers more usable bowl
space, and since the plumbing underneath is set further back, it also adds the
benefit of additional under-counter cabinet storage.
Faucet holes
If you are installing a self-rimming (drop-in) sink then you will have an option
for the number of holes you would like the sink to come with. The number of holes
you should choose depends on the type of faucet and accessories you are planning
to install. You can purchase a faucet that requires one hole (single-handle), or
three holes (separate hot and cold handle). However, if you are planning on
purchasing an accessory as well, such as a side spray (vegetable spray), soap
dispenser, or hot water dispenser keep; in mind they require a hole as well. Below
is a chart of hole options and what they can be used for.
Amount of Sink Holes
Purpose
One hole
Allows for a faucet with a single lever handle (no separate hot and cold handles).
Two hole
Allows for a faucet with a single lever handle (no separate hot and cold handles) and an option of a side spray, soap dispenser, hot water dispenser, or chilled water dispenser.
Three holes
Allows for a faucet with separate hot and cold handles OR a single lever handle faucet with an option of two of the following accessories, side spray, soap dispenser, hot water dispenser, or chilled water dispenser.
Four holes
Allows for a faucet with separate hot and cold handles and an option of a side spray, soap dispenser, hot water dispenser, or chilled water dispenser.
Five holes
Allows for a faucet with separate hot and cold handles with an option of two of the following accessories, side spray, soap dispenser, hot water dispenser, or chilled water dispenser.
**Note: Most undermount sinks do not come with faucet hole options. When
installing an undermount the faucet holes are drilled directly into the counter
top just behind the sink.
Accessories
Accessories can be used to improve the overall functionality of your kitchen sink
and the surrounding area. Below is a list of common kitchen sink accessories and
their descriptions.
Faucets – A faucet that provides a flow of water into your kitchen sink. They are available in many different styles. Just make sure that the faucet you choose will fit the holes in your sink.
Soap/Lotion Dispensers – A container that dispenses soap or lotion. It is mounted besides the kitchen faucet and requires one-hole drilling on the sink or countertop for installation.
Hot Water Dispenser - Spout that dispenses hot water instantly! You can use it to make coffee, soup, tea, or Jell-O. Usually requires one-hole drilling in your sink or countertop.
Garbage Disposal – Equipment that grinds solid wastes into small particles for disposal into the sewer system. Very convenient but takes up cabinet space underneath the sink. InSinkErator offers the best garbage disposals on the market today, at the most economical prices.
Drains – Most manufacturers do not include the drain with the sink purchase. In fact the only manufacturer to do so is Kindred. When purchasing a different brand, make sure you also purchase a drain separately. Sinks of different materials may require different sized drains. Make sure you’re purchasing a drain that will fit your sink.
Air Gap - Connects the dishwasher drain and the sink drain and prevents the dishwasher from sucking the drain water back into the dishwasher. It usually requires one hole drilling in the sink or counter top.
Cutting Boards – Cutting boards are very convenient in cutting fruits and vegetables during food preparation. Many sink manufacturers provide cutting boards that fit their model sinks perfectly. This provides for preparation perfection.
Colanders – Many sink manufacturers offer custom shaped and colored colanders to fit and match their sinks perfectly. They are useful for peeling vegetables and washing cutlery.
Bottom Basin Racks/Bottom Grids –Wire grids made from steel that can be color matched. They fit snug on the bottom of the sink and are used to protect the sink from heavy scratches.
Features Available
There are a variety of features available for your kitchen sink. Not all manufacturers offer these features but the ones that do, assure you that you are purchasing a quality sink that will have long-lasting benefits.
Spillway: A spillway feature is available for 2 and 3 bowl sinks. Since it is lower than the sides of the sinks, any overflowing water will go from one bowl to the other, without getting water onto the floor.
Clamps: Clamps are sometimes provided to attach to the bowl before your sink goes into the countertop. This ensures a secure, trouble - free installation.
Rear Drains: Rear drains provide more storage space in the cabinet below the sink since the pipes are further back.
Rim Seal: A rim seal will seat your sink to your countertop to prevent water from infiltrating beneath. No caulking is needed.
Deep Bowl: Deep bowls give you more flexibility and room when washing your biggest roasting pans, stock pots and cookie sheets.
Sound Deadening Pad: The last thing you want is for your sink to ring like a gong every time you drop a pot or pan, so sound deadening pads dampen all reverberations.
Undercoating: The underside of your sink is sprayed with a protective undercoating to eliminate bothersome condensation and to retain the heat of your dishwater longer.
Gauges
The gauge of the stainless steel is the thickness of the stainless steel sink. The most common gauges are 18 and 20. The higher the number gauge, the thinner the steel. Eighteen (18) is the most recommended gauge for sinks.
Pricing of Stainless Steel Sinks
Stainless steel sinks are available in a variety of price ranges. The price fluctuation is due to many factors such as the manufacturer's brand image, the size of the sink, the finish it comes in, and the features it boasts. You can choose to pay more for a well known brand, or choose Kindred - a less common brand and get the highest quality at the best price. It's all up to you!
HomeCenter.com specializes in stainless steel sinks and faucets! We stock most of the following sink brands:
Q. Some undermount sinks have a "Reveal". What is a Reveal and do all undermount kitchen sinks have a reveal?
A. The reveal is a flat area that may or may not be exposed. It reveals a portion of deck of the sink instead of the countertop being flush with the sink. Sinks either are made to have a reveal or they are not. Kindred sinks provide a template assuming you will use the reveal. Elkay on the other hand, offers ELU and ELUH sinks for Elkay Undermount and Elkay Undermount with a Reveal.
Q. Do you have to use the reveal on Kindred sinks?
A. NO, you can cut the surface (granite) to the size of the sink, using the sink as your template. This will show no reveal.
Q. Generally how large is a reveal?
A. Reveals are approx. 1/4" around depending on the manufacturer.
Q. What do you recommend for kitchen sinks?
A. We recommend stainless steel because the inherent long-life properties of the metal will not diminish with time. The flexibility of the material allows you to choose from a wide range of styles and configurations. Considering how much food preparation takes place around the sink, stainless steel is a very cleanable and hygienic material. Stainless steel is also a neutral finish that will complement any kitchen décor.
Q. What brands for stainless steels sinks do you recommend?
A. HomeCenter.com is proud to carry Kindred, Kohler, Elkay, Blanco and Franke sinks. Although each manufacturer offers there own particular benefits, Kindred and Elkay are featured products because of the versatility, availability, value, and styling.
Q. Why are the Kindred sink accessories more expensive then other?
A. Kindred is one of the few manufacturers that produces their bottom basin racks and accessories in stainless steel. Although they may slightly be more expensive, they are going to last a lifetime with proper care. You can simply stick these items in your dishwasher to clean them.
Q. What do you think about Cast Iron sinks?
A. Cast iron sinks are very nice as well. You can color coordinate your kitchen décor with your kitchen sink. Kohler offers a wide selection of colors and style.
Q. What is the difference between a Self-rimming sink and an undermount sink?
A. A self-rimming sink has a built-in rim for mounting on the counter top, where an under mount sink is mounted under the counter top. This type of installation provides a smooth counter top surface.
Q. I read somewhere that you should buy a stainless steel sink with an undercoating. What exactly does this do and why do I need it?
A. An undercoating is a rubber like material that is sprayed on the underside of the sink and provides a sound-deadening barrier, and it eliminates condensation, and retains the water temperature longer.
Q. What are they referring to when they ask what gauge of stainless steel sink do you want?
A. They are referring to the strength, weight and durability of the stainless steel. Generally speaking you should look for a sink that uses at least 18 gauge. The lower the number the stronger the steel, for example a 20-gauge sink is not as strong as an 18 gauge sink. Kindred, Elkay and Blanco and Kohler all have stainless steel sink in both gauges.
Q. I notice that American Standard makes a material called Americast, is this similar to cast iron?
A. Americast is a patented process that’s uses a porcelain surface, an enameling grade steel material, and a structural composite backing, bonded together to create a sink that is similar to cast iron in durability but weighs considerably less. American Standard only makes this.
Q. I see a lot of stainless steel sinks resemble a D shape, what is the benefit of this shape?
A. The “D” shaped is beneficial because it maximizes your usable sink area. Because of the shape and design you get more room from to back thus creating a larger work area with in the sink compartment.
Q. I see you offer some very deeps sinks, is there a benefit to having a deep sink?
A: Big deep sink bowls make working at the sink easier. Pots, pans and cookie sheets will lie flat, and water splashing is contained where it belongs….in the sink, not all over the counter.
diagram A
diagram B
diagram C
stainless steel
cast iron
vitreous china
self rimming
under mount
tile in
apron front
one bowl
two bowls
soap dispenser
hot water dispenser
garbage disposal
drain
air gap
cutting board
colander
basin rack
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