How to Select the Right Kind of Sink for your Kitchen

Selecting a sink can be one of the most overwhelming decisions you will make when remodeling your kitchen.

Choosing a kitchen sink is not something you can replace easily without incurring a huge expense. The best way to avoid that is to be well-informed and have your priorities defined before making this decision.

The first thing to consider is, “What material do you want?”

Cast Iron is probably one of the most popular choices.

The Pros

• Appearance – Cast iron is the most versatile material for kitchen sinks; it is available in many different color options and provides a high-luster finished look to your kitchen.
• Resistant to water spots – Cast iron is less prone to showing water spots. However, if water spots will bother you, stick to lighter colors. Dark or high-gloss finishes may require wiping after each use.
• Durability – Because of its construction, cast iron sinks will not crack or dent easily.

The Cons

• High maintenance – The enamel surface can fade or scratch and is prone to chipping if heavy items fall into the sink. Proper care is required to maintain appearance.
• Non-repairable – If chipped, cast iron will rust. Touch-up kits exist but will not restore the original surface.
• Heavy – An average 33” × 22” sink weighs about 90 lbs and may require additional structural support, especially for under-counter installations.

Stainless Steel

The Pros

• Durability – High-quality stainless steel sinks (18-gauge / 304 grade or better) age gracefully and remain highly functional.
• Ease of maintenance – Can be cleaned with abrasive soaps without affecting the integrity of the sink.
• Flexibility – Lightweight and suitable for self-rimming or under-mount installations.
• Neutral color – Complements most décor styles.

The Cons

• Prone to water spotting – Water spots are visible, though carnauba wax may help minimize them.
• Denting – Thinner gauges may dent over time.
• Noisy – Even with sound-deadening coatings, stainless steel sinks may produce more noise than other materials.

In the market, there are a few synthetic options. For the most part they offer a good third option—just beware of possible staining risks and heat tolerance.

The next step in the decision-making process is, “How is the sink going to be installed?” The most popular options are self-rimming and under-mount.

Self Rimming, AKA Drop-in

The Pros

• Easy to replace – No countertop removal required; the sink can be lifted out from the top.

The Cons

• Aesthetically challenged – Not the most visually appealing option, especially with high-end countertops.
• Difficult to clean – Water and debris can accumulate around the rim.

Under mount or under counter installations are gaining popularity due to lower granite costs.

The Pros

• Ease of cleaning – No rim allows for a more sanitary countertop surface.
• More aesthetically pleasing

The Cons

• More expensive to install – Granite fabricators may charge additional fees.
• Expensive to replace – Replacement may require cabinet or countertop modifications.